Windows 10 sets up your device automatically once you complete the free upgrade process.
Windows 10 sets up your device automatically once you complete the free upgrade process.
I changed my computer from Windows 7 to 8.1 some time ago and recently upgraded to Windows 10 for free. After a clean install of Windows 10, it won’t activate—it shows the activation key is blocked. Even after a reset, the issue persists. I tried running slui 4 in the command prompt and calling the toll-free number, but nothing worked. I suspect the problem lies with my activation key. If I reinstall Windows 7 and follow the same steps to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10, will my hardware now be linked to the Windows 7 key? I’m unsure how Microsoft tracks hardware on their servers so it can activate automatically; I worry that doing this might overwrite my Windows 8 activation and tie my Windows 7 key to my device. Thanks!
The process essentially provides a key for 10, making it seem like you've already entered it. After installation, using tools such as belarc adviser or produ-key allows you to obtain your 10 key for a fresh 10 install without needing the previous one first. This was necessary on my desktop. It seems hardware changes are limited and tied to the upgraded machine. The reason it isn't working for you isn't clear—perhaps someone else can assist.
Consider restarting your system and performing a fresh installation of Windows 7 or 8.1. This should resolve the issue.