Updating Windows 8.1 again
Updating Windows 8.1 again
I recently bought an SSD and chose a clean install instead of cloning my OS. Naturally, it requested my activation key, which I provided. Since it was already used, my computer now displays "Windows 8.1 Build 9600" in the bottom right corner. Also, occasionally a blue screen appears asking for activation, which is frustrating because I can't afford another key and it interrupts gameplay while minimizing apps. Is there any way to make it believe my code is new? It's not about theft—I just needed to reinstall. Thanks.
Many users refer to Microsoft for comparable problems and receive a new license key. This approach may involve waiting on the phone for some time.
You might need a Windows 8 product key, it doesn't match the 8.1 installer. Alternatively, you could use an Upgrade Windows 8.1 key. If so, consider these steps: Option 1 – Reinstall an older version of Windows, it doesn’t need activation, then upgrade to 8.1. Option 2 – Open Registry Editor (regedit), locate the key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Setup\OOBE, change its value from 1 to 0, then launch an elevated command prompt and run slmgr -rearm before rebooting. Good luck!
Remember, you can reach out to Microsoft by phone and inform them that no PCs are currently installed. Good luck!
Check if it runs on a laptop with Windows 8 and only the single language preinstalled. Didn't understand the text. 1. Launch an elevated command prompt (Win+X, A), 2. Enter slmgr /rilc, close any pop-up windows, 3. Then run slmgr /ipk <your_window_key>, 4. Use slmgr /ato to verify installation. Make sure you have the right version installed, as some OEMs use Single Language/Bing and require a fresh install if you need your key back.
This rule was updated by Microsoft with the release of the new installation media creation tool.