Windows reported that the hardware of your device has changed

The process of upgrading or installing Windows OS can sometimes be problematic and cause a little bit of difficulty. While it is generally quite simple and crucial to upgrade, there is an error that might occur when users complete the process. One of the most common errors is Activation Error 0xC004F211 which occurs when you change some hardware of your Windows 10 PC.

It is possible that you upgraded or removed the old hardware recently. As a result, Windows may not have been able to determine whether the key is being used on a new device or the same one. This blog post will provide a simple solution that you can use to resolve Error 0xC004F211. The same procedure can also be used to resolve the error 0xC004F213.

• Windows reported that the hardware of your device has changed, “0xC004F211”
• Windows reported that no product key was found on your device, “0xC004F213”

To fix Windows 10 Activation Error 0xC004F211, use the steps –

Run Windows Activation Troubleshooter

The first and foremost thing you should do is run the Windows 10 Activation Troubleshooter.

Even though your Windows 10 has a genuine key, it may fail to get activated. 

• Open Windows Settings using Win + I keyboard shortcut.
• On the following screen, you need to select Update & Security.
• From the left pane, go to the Activation section.
• Move to the right pane and click the Troubleshoot link. If you didn’t get there the troubleshoot option then make sure to activate the OS.

• When UAC prompts on the screen, click on the Yes button.
• This will detect the problem regarding Windows activation.
• When the process completes, select the link saying, I changed hardware on this device recently.
• Using your credentials, sign in to your linked Microsoft account.
• Select the device you’re currently working on and then select the Activate button.
• Once Windows gets activated, close the ongoing page.
• After completion of the process, restart your Windows PC and check if the issue is solved.

Commonly, small changes in the hardware don’t create any problem with Windows activation unless you have made any major hardware change. For example – Suppose you change your motherboard. In this case, the Windows Activation system takes it as new hardware and causes a problem. In order to fix this issue, you would need a new license.

Note: If the above-mentioned method doesn’t work for you, then try to change your product key by reading this tutorial to fix the activation error 0xC004F211.

What happens if you fail to activate Windows 10?

If you fail to activate Windows 10 on your computer, the message “Windows isn’t activated, Activate Windows now” will appear in Settings. When this happens, you will no longer be able to customize your wallpaper, themes, accent colors, lock screen, etc. Everything relevant to Personalization will become grayed out or inaccessible. Apps and functionality will cease to work.

Why can’t I activate my Windows?

You might not be able to activate a copy of Windows that is installed on more than one machine. Microsoft Software License Terms prohibit the use of the product key on more than one PC at a time. You will need a new product key or copy of Windows for each additional computer that you want to activate.

What is 0xC004F211 Error? What does it mean ?

When Windows detects significant change in computer’s hardware then the OS will trigger “0xC004F211” error. Because Windows license is linked with the system hardware {for eg: Motherboard, Hard disk etc.). Windows detect hardware change on next boot, and changes the activations status.

0xC004F211 Windows reported that the hardware of your device has changed.

How to solve 0xC004F211 error?

Please confirm these points, before you begin the troubleshooting.

• Login as administrator
• Update date and time
• Windows 10 activated with either a digital license or with license key.
• Windows was pre-installed on your laptop or desktop with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacture) version. Then you can not use the license if you have changed motherboard/hardware. You have to purchase new license.
• But, if you have already connected your license to a Microsoft account before the hardware change, then you can reactivate your Windows using that license again.
• Can reactivate, if you upgraded from Windows 8 or 7 to Windows 10 with retail license.

Follow these steps to reactivate Windows after a hardware change.

Login as Administrator

Click “Start” menu -> Settings

Click “Update & Security“

Then click “Activation” option in the left pane.

Now you can see “Change product key” button in the left pane, click it .

Re-enter the product key for activation.

• Click Troubleshoot option in the right pane.
• Click Yes, if UAC prompt for confirmation
• Activation Troubleshooter will try to identify and fix the issue.
• Troubleshooter will list of options to select, then click “I changed hardware on this device recently”
• It will direct to Microsoft account login, enter using your credentials to sign in.
• Here you can see the devices linked to your ID, Select the right device you’re currently working on and then select the Activate button.
• Windows wil get activated now.
• After the process, Close the screen and restart your PC.. Done.

Now Windows will activate successfully and the error will disappear.

How to prepare your Windows 10 device for a hardware change ?

Contact Microsoft for License reactivation

Microsoft Phone Numbers: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/global-customer-service-phone-numbers-c0389ade-5640-e588-8b0e-28de8afeb3f2

Online support: https://support.microsoft.com/contactus

Solved: Windows 10 Activation Error 0xC004F211

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The process of upgrading or installing Windows OS can sometimes be problematic and cause a little bit of difficulty. While it is generally quite simple and crucial to upgrade, there is an error that might occur when users complete the process. One of the most common errors is Activation Error 0xC004F211 which occurs when you change some hardware of your Windows 10 PC.

It is possible that you upgraded or removed the old hardware recently. As a result, Windows may not have been able to determine whether the key is being used on a new device or the same one. This blog post will provide a simple solution that you can use to resolve Error 0xC004F211. The same procedure can also be used to resolve the error 0xC004F213.

How to Fix Windows 10 Activation Error 0xC004F211

To fix Windows 10 Activation Error 0xC004F211, use the steps –

Run Windows Activation Troubleshooter

The first and foremost thing you should do is run the Windows 10 Activation Troubleshooter.

Even though your Windows 10 has a genuine key, it may fail to get activated.

Commonly, small changes in the hardware don’t create any problem with Windows activation unless you have made any major hardware change. For example – Suppose you change your motherboard. In this case, the Windows Activation system takes it as new hardware and causes a problem. In order to fix this issue, you would need a new license.

Note: If the above-mentioned method doesn’t work for you, then try to change your product key by reading this tutorial to fix the activation error 0xC004F211.

What happens if you fail to activate Windows 10?

If you fail to activate Windows 10 on your computer, the message “Windows isn’t activated, Activate Windows now” will appear in Settings. When this happens, you will no longer be able to customize your wallpaper, themes, accent colors, lock screen, etc. Everything relevant to Personalization will become grayed out or inaccessible. Apps and functionality will cease to work.

Why can’t I activate my Windows?

You might not be able to activate a copy of Windows that is installed on more than one machine. Microsoft Software License Terms prohibit the use of the product key on more than one PC at a time. You will need a new product key or copy of Windows for each additional computer that you want to activate.

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Reactivating Windows after a hardware change

Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow.

When installing Windows 11, the digital license associates itself with your device’s hardware. If you make significant hardware changes on your device, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows will no longer find a license that matches your device, and you’ll need to reactivate Windows to get it up and running.

To activate Windows, you’ll need either a digital license or a product key. To find out which you need, see «What activation method do I use, product key or digital license?» in Activate Windows. Then, use the following info to help you successfully prepare for a hardware change and reactivate Windows.

Prepare your Windows 11 device for a hardware change

First, follow these steps to find out if Windows 11 is already activated.

If you’re not activated, complete the activation process with the steps you see on the Activation page. If you experience an error while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors.

Once you’ve confirmed that Windows 11 is activated, follow these steps:

In Windows 11, it is essential that you link your Microsoft account with the Windows 11 digital license on your device. Linking your Microsoft account with your digital license allows you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter whenever you make a significant hardware change.

Windows is activated with a digital license

This means that your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license.

Follow instructions for Add an account.

Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account

This means that your Microsoft account is already linked to your digital license.

No further action is required. You are ready to use the activation troubleshooter.

If your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license, follow these steps to Add an account:

Confirm that the administrator account is also your Microsoft account by checking to see if an email address is displayed above Administrator. If an email address is displayed, this is a Microsoft account. If not, you’re logged in using a local account. If you don’t yet have a Microsoft account, see How to create a new Microsoft account.

Once you confirm that you’re an administrator and using your Microsoft account, go back to the Activation page, select Add an account, enter your Microsoft account and password, then select Sign in.

After your Microsoft account has been added, the message on the Activation page will change to: Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.

Make sure that the edition, Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro, is the same before and after your hardware change. Your digital license and product key will reactivate only if the edition remains the same.

If you used a product key to get to Windows 11, then you’ll need that key again after the hardware change. To find out how to locate your key, see Find your Windows product key.

For more info about product keys and digital licenses, see Activate Windows.

Reactivate Windows 11 after a hardware change

When you’re ready to reactivate, make sure that your device is connected to the internet and then follow the steps for either a digital license or product key.

You’ll need to first add your Microsoft account and link your account to the digital license on your device. After linking your Microsoft account, run the Activation troubleshooter to reactivate Windows 11.

This troubleshooter will only be available if your copy of Windows 11 isn’t activated.

To use the Activation troubleshooter:

Select I changed hardware on this device recently, then select Next.

Enter your connected Microsoft account and password, then select Sign in. The troubleshooter will only work with the connected Microsoft account.

From the list of devices that are linked to your Microsoft account, select the check box next to This is the device I’m using right now.

If you don’t see the device you’re using in the list of results, make sure that you signed in using the same Microsoft account you associated with the Windows 11 digital license on your device.

If you continue to experience errors while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors and locate the error you’re getting.

If you didn’t link your Microsoft account to the digital license before the hardware change AND you used a product key to upgrade to Windows 11, then continue to next section.

If Windows 11 wasn’t pre-installed on your device when purchased and you used a product key to upgrade to Windows 11, then you’ll need that same product key after the hardware change.

Select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Change Product Key, then enter the product key.

If you installed a retail copy of Windows 11 on your device using a Windows 11 product key and then made hardware changes, follow this same process using your Windows 11 product key.

If you continue to experience errors while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors and locate the error you’re getting.

If you don’t have a digital license or product key

If you don’t have a product key or digital license, you can purchase a Windows 11 digital license after installation finishes. Follow these steps to make a purchase:

Need more help?

If you need additional help reactivating Windows on your device, contact customer support.

Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow.

When installing Windows 10, the digital license associates itself with your device’s hardware. If you make significant hardware changes on your device, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows will no longer find a license that matches your device, and you’ll need to reactivate Windows to get it up and running.

To activate Windows, you’ll need either a digital license or a product key. To find out which you need, see «What activation method do I use, product key or digital license?» in Activate Windows. Then, use the following info to help you successfully prepare for a hardware change and reactivate Windows 10.

Prepare your Windows 10 device for a hardware change

First, follow these steps to find out if Windows 10 is already activated.

If you’re not activated, complete the activation process with the steps you see on the Activation page. If you experience an error while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors.

Once you’ve confirmed that Windows 10 is activated, follow these steps:

In Windows 10 (version 1607 or later), it is essential that you link your Microsoft account with the Windows 10 digital license on your device. Linking your Microsoft account with your digital license allows you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter whenever you make a significant hardware change.

Windows is activated with a digital license

This means that your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license.

Follow instructions for Add an account.

Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account

This means that your Microsoft account is already linked to your digital license.

No further action is required. You are ready to use the activation troubleshooter.

If your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license, follow these steps to Add an account:

Confirm that the administrator account is also your Microsoft account by checking to see if an email address is displayed above Administrator. If an email address is displayed, this is a Microsoft account. If not, you’re logged in using a local account. If you don’t yet have a Microsoft account, see How to create a new Microsoft account.

Once you confirm that you’re an administrator and using your Microsoft account, go back to the Activation page, select Add an account, enter your Microsoft account and password, then select Sign in.

After your Microsoft account has been added, the message on the Activation page will change to: Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.

Make sure that the edition, Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro, is the same before and after your hardware change. Your digital license and product key will reactivate only if the edition remains the same.

If you used a product key to get to Windows 10, then you’ll need that key again after the hardware change. To find out how to locate your key, see Find your Windows product key.

For more info about product keys and digital licenses, see Activate Windows.

Reactivate Windows 10 after a hardware change

When you’re ready to reactivate, make sure that your device is connected to the internet and then follow the steps for either a digital license or product key.

You’ll need to first add your Microsoft account and link your account to the digital license on your device. After linking your Microsoft account, run the Activation troubleshooter to reactivate Windows 10.

This troubleshooter will only be available if your copy of Windows 10 (version 1607 or later) isn’t activated.

To use the Activation troubleshooter:

Select I changed hardware on this device recently, then select Next.

Enter your connected Microsoft account and password, then select Sign in. The troubleshooter will only work with the connected Microsoft account.

From the list of devices that are linked to your Microsoft account, select the check box next to This is the device I’m using right now.

If you don’t see the device you’re using in the list of results, make sure that you signed in using the same Microsoft account you associated with the Windows 10 digital license on your device.

If you continue to experience errors while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors and locate the error you’re getting.

If you didn’t link your Microsoft account to the digital license before the hardware change AND you used a product key to upgrade to Windows 10, then continue to next section.

If Windows 10 wasn’t pre-installed on your device when purchased and you used a product key to upgrade to Windows 10, then you’ll need that same product key after the hardware change.

Select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Change Product Key, then enter the product key.

If you installed a retail copy of Windows 10 on your device using a Windows 10 product key and then made hardware changes, follow this same process using your Windows 10 product key.

If you continue to experience errors while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors and locate the error you’re getting.

If you don’t have a digital license or product key

If you don’t have a product key or digital license, you can purchase a Windows 10 digital license after installation finishes. Follow these steps to make a purchase:

Need more help?

If you need additional help reactivating Windows on your device, contact customer support.

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Get help with Windows activation errors

Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. This article will help you troubleshoot and fix common activation errors in Windows.

For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key. For troubleshooting and other info about updating Windows 11, see Windows Update: FAQ or Troubleshoot problems updating Windows. For info on upgrading to Windows 11, see Upgrade to Windows: FAQ.

See Activate Windows for general info about activation, including how to choose your activation method.

See Reactivating Windows after a hardware change for more info about reactivating Windows 11 after making a significant change to your device’s hardware.

See Activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 for info about activation of earlier versions of Windows.

If you’re having trouble activating Windows 11, follow these steps to fix activation errors:

Confirm that your device is up to date and running Windows 11. In the search box on the taskbar, type winver, and then select Winver from the list of results. You’ll see the version and build of Windows.
Not running Windows 11? Learn how to update your device at update Windows.

Use the Activation troubleshooter to resolve simple errors. For more info, see Try the Activation troubleshooter below.

If you’re still getting an error, check the list of error codes below and follow the suggested steps to resolve it.

Make sure the error hasn’t changed. Sometimes when you run the Activation troubleshooter or try to activate, the error code and message will change. If the error code has changed, look up the new code below and follow the recommended steps. (If you’re getting an error code that isn’t listed on this page, contact customer support.)

Try the Activation troubleshooter

If you’re running Windows 11, the Activation troubleshooter might help reactivate Windows if you recently made a significant hardware change (such as replacing the motherboard) or reinstalled Windows.

You must be an administrator to use this option. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.

Fix common errors

The following are some of the most common activation errors with possible solutions for Windows 11. If you’re getting an error code that isn’t listed on this page, contact customer support.

If you upgraded to Windows 11 for free and your device isn’t activated, make sure you’re running the latest version of Windows 11. This version includes improvements to activation and troubleshooting activation errors. For more info about how to keep Windows up to date, see Windows Update: FAQ.

For more info about how activation works in Windows 11 or Windows 10, see Activate Windows.

For more info about how to activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 including how to activate either by phone, see Activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.

What it means and how to fix it

Windows reported that the hardware of your device has changed.

A Windows license is associated with your device hardware. If you make significant hardware changes, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows won’t be able to find a matching license the next time you start your device. If Windows was preinstalled on the device and you have made a change such as replacing the motherboard, you’ll need a new license.

Additionally, Microsoft provides an exception path for transferring a Windows License after a hardware change. You’ll need to be signed in to the same Microsoft account before making the hardware change and to use the exception path.

The product key used on this device didn’t work with this edition of Windows. You might need to get in touch with the store or company you bought Windows from, enter a different product key, or go to the Store to buy genuine Windows.

When you reinstall Windows 11 using a digital license, you’re asked to choose which edition to install. If you choose an edition other than the one you’re licensed to use, you may receive this error.

Windows reported that no product key was found on your device.

A Windows license is associated with your device hardware. If you make significant hardware changes, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows won’t be able to find a matching license the next time you start your device. If Windows was preinstalled on the device and you have made a change such as replacing the motherboard, you’ll need a new license.

In addition, Microsoft provides an exception path for transferring a Windows License after a hardware change. You’ll need to be signed in to the same Microsoft account before making the hardware change and to use the exception path.

«Your Windows License Will Expire Soon» warning

This may occur if you have a volume license client installed. Windows 11 Pro volume license clients are used by large organizations that deploy Windows 11 to hundreds or thousands of computers.

In this situation, activation is typically managed by your organization, and you’ll need to contact your system administrator for assistance. For more info, see Troubleshooting Windows license expiration issues.

If you see error code 0x803F7001, it means that a valid Windows 11 license couldn’t be found to activate Windows on your device. Here’s how to activate Windows:

If you have a valid product key, select Change product key, and then enter the 25-character product key. If you don’t have a valid product key, select Go to Microsoft Store, and follow the instructions to buy a digital license for Windows.
Open Activation settings

Note: Your product key should be in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows, included with the packaging that came with your device, or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the back or bottom of your device.

For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key.

For more info on how to troubleshoot error code 0x803F7001, see Fix Windows activation error 0x803F7001.

This error means we didn’t find a valid Windows license for your device.

You must use a valid product key to activate Windows. Your product key should be in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows, included with the packaging that came with your device, or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the back or bottom of your device.

For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key.

If you have a valid product key, use it to activate Windows:

Select Change product key, and then enter the 25-character product key.
Open Activation settings

If you’ve made a major change to your device’s hardware, such as a motherboard replacement, run the Windows Activation troubleshooter located on the activation settings page. Note that you might be asked to go through the reactivation process. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.

If you’re looking for info about how to activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 see Activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.

If you’re looking for info about how to activate Windows 11 see Activate Windows.

0xC004C060, 0xC004C4A2, 0xC004C4A2, 0x803FA067L, 0xC004C001, 0xC004C004, 0xC004F004, 0xC004C007, 0xC004F005, 0xC004C00F, 0xC004C010, 0xC004C00E, 0xC004C4A4, 0xC004C4A5, 0xC004B001, 0xC004F010, 0xC004F050

Reasons why you might see these errors:

You entered a product key that can’t be used to activate Windows. Enter a different product key or buy a new product key.

You upgraded to Windows 11, but the activation servers were busy. If you upgraded from an activated copy of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, your copy of Windows 11 will be automatically activated, or you can wait a while and then select Activate. If you continue to have problems with activation, contact customer support.

You upgraded to Windows 11 using the free upgrade offer, but Windows 11 isn’t activated after a reinstall. Your copy of Windows 11 should automatically be activated as long as you didn’t make any significant hardware changes to your device (such as replacing the motherboard). If you continue to have problems with activation, contact customer support.

You may see this error because the Windows 11 product key you entered isn’t valid. Product keys are unique—assigned to a specific user to install on a single device. If a key was used (or attempted to be used) on multiple devices, it’s marked as not valid. To activate Windows, you’ll need to provide a different Windows key unique to your device.

If you bought a device from a reseller of Windows 11 and expected the key to be valid, contact the reseller. If your device was purchased with Windows 11 preinstalled and you received this activation error upon turning it on for the first time, contact your device manufacturer.

If your experience with your device is different from those listed above, try the following:

Run the Windows Activation Troubleshooter: Select Start > Settings > System > Activation and then select Troubleshoot.
Open Activation settings

Check to see if you have a paper copy of your Windows 25-character product key you can enter to activate Windows 11.

If your device was recently repaired at an independent repair facility, contact them to see if the repairs require a new Windows 11 license.

If the device is new and has never been activated, contact your device manufacturer.

You might see this error if you entered an invalid product key or a product key for a different version of Windows.

Enter a valid product key that matches the version and edition of Windows 11 installed on your device.

If Windows is installed on a device that connects to a Key Management Service (KMS) server, contact your organization’s support person for more info about how to activate Windows.

You might see this error if you entered a product key for a different edition of Windows than the edition installed on your device. You might also see this error if you previously upgraded to Windows 11, but the current edition of Windows installed on your device doesn’t match the edition of your digital license.

You can either enter a valid product key that matches the edition of Windows installed on your device or reinstall the edition of Windows 11 that matches your digital license.

If your device is running Windows 11 (Version 1607 or later), the Activation troubleshooter can help you install the correct edition of Windows on your device. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.

You might see this error if you entered a product key for a different version or edition of Windows. For example, a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows 11can’t be used to activate Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Core editions.

Enter a product key that matches the version and edition of Windows installed on your device or buy a new copy of Windows from the Microsoft Store.

You might see this error if you’re not connected to the internet or your firewall settings are preventing Windows from completing the activation process online.

Make sure that you’re connected to the internet and your firewall isn’t blocking Windows from activating. If you’re still having problems, try to activate Windows by phone. In the search box on the taskbar, type SLUI 04, select SLUI 04 from the list of results, and then follow the instructions on the screen to activate Windows.

Note: If you’re running Windows 11 Pro EDU or Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, you must activate Windows over the internet—phone activation and SLUI 04 can’t be used. See How to activate Windows 11 Pro for Workstations and Windows 11 Pro EDU.

You might see this error if you try to activate a device that is already in the process of activation. Your device should be activated after the first request is completed.

You might see this error if you’re not connected to the internet or the activation server is temporarily unavailable. Make sure that you’re connected to the internet and your firewall isn’t blocking Windows from activating.

0xD0000272, 0xC0000272, 0xc004C012, 0xC004C013, 0xC004C014

If the activation server is temporarily unavailable, your copy of Windows will automatically be activated when the service comes back online.

0xC004C008, 0xC004C770, 0x803FA071

You might see this error if the product key has already been used on another device, or it’s being used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. To fix the problem, buy a product key for each one of your devices to activate Windows on them.

If you’re using Windows 11, you can buy Windows from the Microsoft Store:

Select Go to Microsoft Store, then follow the instructions to buy Windows 11.
Open Activation settings

If you don’t see Go to Microsoft Store on the Activation page, contact your organization’s support person.

If you made a substantial hardware changes to your device (such as replacing the motherboard) and you have a valid product key, try to activate Windows by phone. In the search box on the taskbar, type SLUI 04, select SLUI 04 from the list of results, and then follow the instructions on the screen to activate Windows. For more info about reactivating Windows 11 (Version 1607 or later) after a hardware change, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change.

If you’re running Windows 11 Pro EDU or Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, you must activate Windows over the internet—phone activation and SLUI 04 can’t be used. Learn more about Windows 11 Pro EDU or Windows 11 Pro for Workstations.

You might see this error if you entered a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows to activate Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro. Enter a product key that matches the edition of Windows on your device.

This error occurs when a Volume License (a license that was bought from Microsoft by an organization to install Windows on multiple devices) was used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. To fix the problem, you might need to use a different product key to activate Windows on your device. Contact your organization’s support person for more info.

0x8007232B, 0xC004F074, 0xC004F038, 0x8007007B

You might see this error if you entered a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows to activate Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro. Try entering a product key that matches the edition of Windows on your device.

Or, you might see this error if you’re trying to activate your work device but aren’t connected to your workplace’s network. If you’re connected to your work network and still see this error, you might need to change the network settings. Contact your organization’s support person for more info.

If your organization doesn’t have a support person, you might need to enter your product key again:

Select Change product key, and then type your 25-character product key.
Open Activation settings

You might be asked for an admin password or to confirm your choice.

You might see this error if the date and time for the device is incorrect, or Windows has trouble connecting to the online activation service and can’t verify your product key.

To verify the date and time, select Start > Settings > Time & language > Date & time.
Verify date and time in Settings

To check your internet connection:

In the search box on the taskbar, type network troubleshooter, then select Identify and repair network problems from the list of results.

Follow the instructions to fix any problems with the network.

If the network troubleshooter didn’t find any problems with your network connection, try restarting your device to see if that fixes the problem.

You might see this error after installing third-party software that changed system files. Windows activation needs certain system files to complete activation. You can try to restore the system files back to an earlier point in time. This removes any software you installed after that point in time without affecting your personal files.

For more info, see the section about how to restore from a system restore point in Recovery options in Windows.

If this doesn’t work, you might need to reset your device. For more info, see the section in Recovery options in Windows.

When the troubleshooter is complete, select Go to Microsoft Store to launch the Microsoft Store app. If the Microsoft Store app shows there was a problem, select Try again. After a few minutes, you should see a message that thanking you for activating genuine Windows, followed by another message showing that Windows was activated.

For more info about the troubleshooter, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.

This error can occur if the update components are missing or corrupted on the computer. This error might also occur due to poor network connectivity received by the system.

Use the Windows update troubleshooter to check for the corrupted or missing updates or components. Running the troubleshooter will help find and in some cases fix the issue.

Also, check the strength of your internet connection.

All other error codes

Go to Windows Help, enter the error code in the Search for Help box at the top-right, and run the search. Browse through the search results carefully to make sure you try only those that apply to your situation.

Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. This article will help you troubleshoot and fix common activation errors in Windows.

For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key. For troubleshooting and other info about updating Windows 10, see Windows Update: FAQ or Troubleshoot problems updating Windows. For info on upgrading to Windows 10, see Upgrade to Windows: FAQ.

See Activate Windows for general info about activation, including how to choose your activation method.

See Reactivating Windows after a hardware change for more info about reactivating Windows 10 after making a significant change to your device’s hardware.

See Activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 for info about activation of earlier versions of Windows.

If you’re having trouble activating Windows 10, follow these steps to fix activation errors:

Confirm that your device is up to date and running Windows 10, version 1607 or later. In the search box on the taskbar, type winver, and then select Winver from the list of results. You’ll see the version and build of Windows.
Not running Windows 10, version 1607 or later? Learn how to update your device at update Windows 10.

Use the Activation troubleshooter to resolve simple errors. For more info, see Try the Activation troubleshooter below.

If you’re still getting an error, check the list of error codes below and follow the suggested steps to resolve it.

Make sure the error hasn’t changed. Sometimes when you run the Activation troubleshooter or try to activate, the error code and message will change. If the error code has changed, look up the new code below and follow the recommended steps. (If you’re getting an error code that isn’t listed on this page, contact customer support.)

Try the Activation troubleshooter

If you’re running Windows 10, version 1607 or later, the Activation troubleshooter might help reactivate Windows if you recently made a significant hardware change (such as replacing the motherboard) or reinstalled Windows.

You must be an administrator to use this option. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.

Fix common errors

The following are some of the most common activation errors with possible solutions for Windows 10. If you’re getting an error code that isn’t listed on this page, contact customer support.

If you upgraded to Windows 10 for free and your device isn’t activated, make sure you’re running the latest version of Windows 10. This version includes improvements to activation and troubleshooting activation errors. For more info about how to keep Windows up to date, see Windows Update: FAQ.

For more info about how activation works in Windows 10, see Activate Windows.

For more info about how to activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, including how to activate either by phone, see Activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.

What it means and how to fix it

Windows reported that the hardware of your device has changed.

A Windows license is associated with your device hardware. If you make significant hardware changes, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows won’t be able to find a matching license the next time you start your device. If Windows was preinstalled on the device and you have made a change such as replacing the motherboard, you’ll need a new license.

Additionally, Microsoft provides an exception path for transferring a Windows License after a hardware change. You’ll need to be signed in to the same Microsoft account before making the hardware change and to use the exception path.

The product key used on this device didn’t work with this edition of Windows. You might need to get in touch with the store or company you bought Windows from, enter a different product key, or go to the Store to buy genuine Windows.

When you reinstall Windows 10 using a digital license, you’re asked to choose which edition to install. If you choose an edition other than the one you’re licensed to use, you may receive this error.

Windows reported that no product key was found on your device.

A Windows license is associated with your device hardware. If you make significant hardware changes, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows won’t be able to find a matching license the next time you start your device. If Windows was preinstalled on the device and you have made a change such as replacing the motherboard, you’ll need a new license.

In addition, Microsoft provides an exception path for transferring a Windows License after a hardware change. You’ll need to be signed in to the same Microsoft account before making the hardware change and to use the exception path.

«Your Windows License Will Expire Soon» warning

This may occur if you have a volume license client installed. Windows 10 Pro volume license clients are used by large organizations that deploy Windows 10 to hundreds or thousands of computers.

In this situation, activation is typically managed by your organization, and you’ll need to contact your system administrator for assistance. For more info, see Troubleshooting Windows license expiration issues.

If you see error code 0x803F7001, it means that a valid Windows 10 license couldn’t be found to activate Windows on your device. Here’s how to activate Windows:

If you have a valid product key, select Change product key, and then enter the 25-character product key. If you don’t have a valid product key, select Go to Microsoft Store, and follow the instructions to buy a digital license for Windows.
Open Activation settings

Note: Your product key should be in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows, included with the packaging that came with your device, or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the back or bottom of your device.

For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key.

For more info on how to troubleshoot error code 0x803F7001, see Fix Windows activation error 0x803F7001.

This error means we didn’t find a valid Windows license for your device.

You must use a valid product key to activate Windows. Your product key should be in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows, included with the packaging that came with your device, or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the back or bottom of your device.

For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key.

If you have a valid product key, use it to activate Windows:

Select Change product key, and then enter the 25-character product key.
Open Activation settings

If you’ve made a major change to your device’s hardware, such as a motherboard replacement, run the Windows Activation troubleshooter located on the activation settings page. Note that you might be asked to go through the reactivation process. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.

Note: If you’re looking for info about how to activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, see Activate Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.

0xC004C060, 0xC004C4A2, 0xC004C4A2, 0x803FA067L, 0xC004C001, 0xC004C004, 0xC004F004, 0xC004C007, 0xC004F005, 0xC004C00F, 0xC004C010, 0xC004C00E, 0xC004C4A4, 0xC004C4A5, 0xC004B001, 0xC004F010, 0xC004F050

Reasons why you might see these errors:

You entered a product key that can’t be used to activate Windows. Enter a different product key or buy a new product key.

You upgraded to Windows 10, but the activation servers were busy. If you upgraded from an activated copy of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, your copy of Windows 10 will be automatically activated, or you can wait a while and then select Activate. If you continue to have problems with activation, contact customer support.

You upgraded to Windows 10 using the free upgrade offer, but Windows 10 isn’t activated after a reinstall. Your copy of Windows 10 should automatically be activated as long as you didn’t make any significant hardware changes to your device (such as replacing the motherboard). If you continue to have problems with activation, contact customer support.

You may see this error because the Windows 10 product key you entered isn’t valid. Product keys are unique—assigned to a specific user to install on a single device. If a key was used (or attempted to be used) on multiple devices, it’s marked as not valid. To activate Windows, you’ll need to provide a different Windows key unique to your device.

If you bought a device from a reseller of Windows 10 and expected the key to be valid, contact the reseller. If your device was purchased with Windows 10 preinstalled and you received this activation error upon turning it on for the first time, contact your device manufacturer.

If your experience with your device is different from those listed above, try the following:

Run the Windows 10 Activation Troubleshooter: Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation and then select Troubleshoot.
Open Activation settings

Check to see if you have a paper copy of your Windows 25-character product key you can enter to activate Windows 10.

If your device was recently repaired at an independent repair facility, contact them to see if the repairs require a new Windows 10 license.

If the device is new and has never been activated, contact your device manufacturer.

You might see this error if you entered an invalid product key or a product key for a different version of Windows.

Enter a valid product key that matches the version and edition of Windows 10 installed on your device.

If Windows is installed on a device that connects to a Key Management Service (KMS) server, contact your organization’s support person for more info about how to activate Windows.

You might see this error if you entered a product key for a different edition of Windows than the edition installed on your device. You might also see this error if you previously upgraded to Windows 10, but the current edition of Windows installed on your device doesn’t match the edition of your digital license.

You can either enter a valid product key that matches the edition of Windows installed on your device or reinstall the edition of Windows 10 that matches your digital license.

If your device is running Windows 10 (Version 1607 or later), the Activation troubleshooter can help you install the correct edition of Windows on your device. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.

You might see this error if you entered a product key for a different version or edition of Windows. For example, a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows 10 can’t be used to activate Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Core editions.

Enter a product key that matches the version and edition of Windows installed on your device or buy a new copy of Windows from the Microsoft Store.

You might see this error if you’re not connected to the internet or your firewall settings are preventing Windows from completing the activation process online.

Make sure that you’re connected to the internet and your firewall isn’t blocking Windows from activating. If you’re still having problems, try to activate Windows by phone. In the search box on the taskbar, type SLUI 04, select SLUI 04 from the list of results, and then follow the instructions on the screen to activate Windows.

Note: If you’re running Windows 10 Pro EDU or Windows 10 Pro for Workstations, you must activate Windows over the internet—phone activation and SLUI 04 can’t be used. See How to activate Windows 10 Pro for Workstations and Windows 10 Pro EDU.

You might see this error if you try to activate a device that is already in the process of activation. Your device should be activated after the first request is completed.

You might see this error if you’re not connected to the internet or the activation server is temporarily unavailable. Make sure that you’re connected to the internet and your firewall isn’t blocking Windows from activating.

0xD0000272, 0xC0000272, 0xc004C012, 0xC004C013, 0xC004C014

If the activation server is temporarily unavailable, your copy of Windows will automatically be activated when the service comes back online.

0xC004C008, 0xC004C770, 0x803FA071

You might see this error if the product key has already been used on another device, or it’s being used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. To fix the problem, buy a product key for each one of your devices to activate Windows on them.

If you’re using Windows 10, you can buy Windows from the Microsoft Store:

Select Go to Microsoft Store, then follow the instructions to buy Windows 10.
Open Activation settings

If you don’t see Go to Microsoft Store on the Activation page, contact your organization’s support person.

If you made a substantial hardware changes to your device (such as replacing the motherboard) and you have a valid product key, try to activate Windows by phone. In the search box on the taskbar, type SLUI 04, select SLUI 04 from the list of results, and then follow the instructions on the screen to activate Windows. For more info about reactivating Windows 10 (Version 1607 or later) after a hardware change, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change.

If you’re running Windows 10 Pro EDU or Windows 10 Pro for Workstations, you must activate Windows over the internet—phone activation and SLUI 04 can’t be used. Learn more about Windows 11 Pro EDU or Windows 11 Pro for Workstations.

You might see this error if you entered a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows to activate Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro. Enter a product key that matches the edition of Windows on your device.

This error occurs when a Volume License (a license that was bought from Microsoft by an organization to install Windows on multiple devices) was used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. To fix the problem, you might need to use a different product key to activate Windows on your device. Contact your organization’s support person for more info.

0x8007232B, 0xC004F074, 0xC004F038, 0x8007007B

You might see this error if you entered a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows to activate Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro. Try entering a product key that matches the edition of Windows on your device.

Or, you might see this error if you’re trying to activate your work device but aren’t connected to your workplace’s network. If you’re connected to your work network and still see this error, you might need to change the network settings. Contact your organization’s support person for more info.

If your organization doesn’t have a support person, you might need to enter your product key again:

Select Change product key, and then type your 25-character product key.
Open Activation settings

You might be asked for an admin password or to confirm your choice.

You might see this error if the date and time for the device is incorrect, or Windows has trouble connecting to the online activation service and can’t verify your product key.

To verify the date and time, select Start > Settings > Time & language > Date & time.
Verify date and time in Settings

To check your internet connection:

In the search box on the taskbar, type network troubleshooter, then select Identify and repair network problems from the list of results.

Follow the instructions to fix any problems with the network.

If the network troubleshooter didn’t find any problems with your network connection, try restarting your device to see if that fixes the problem.

You might see this error after installing third-party software that changed system files. Windows activation needs certain system files to complete activation. You can try to restore the system files back to an earlier point in time. This removes any software you installed after that point in time without affecting your personal files.

For more info, see the section about how to restore from a system restore point in Recovery options in Windows.

If this doesn’t work, you might need to reset your device. For more info, see the section in Recovery options in Windows.

When the troubleshooter is complete, select Go to Microsoft Store to launch the Microsoft Store app. If the Microsoft Store app shows there was a problem, select Try again. After a few minutes, you should see a message that thanking you for activating genuine Windows, followed by another message showing that Windows was activated.

For more info about the troubleshooter, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.

This error can occur if the update components are missing or corrupted on the computer. This error might also occur due to poor network connectivity received by the system.

Use the Windows update troubleshooter to check for the corrupted or missing updates or components. Running the troubleshooter will help find and in some cases fix the issue.

Also, check the strength of your internet connection.

All other error codes

Go to Windows Help, enter the error code in the Search for Help box at the top-right, and run the search. Browse through the search results carefully to make sure you try only those that apply to your situation.

Источник

In updating or installing process in Windows this  Windows activation error oxc004f211 occurs and causes problems in the completion of the installation process.  The installation process is quite easy, simple, and crucial, but such error occurs sometimes. This error occurs commonly when the hardware of the Windows10 changes. Sometimes error also occurs due to no product key was found on the device.
Windows activation error 0xc004f211 there is A possibility of upgraded or removed that old hardware in recent times. Windows error is due to the hardware of the system has changed and next is that no product key was founded on the device.
Excel tech guru is a leading expert in fixing these Windows activation error in Windows 10. With the help of their professional, experienced technicians they deliver their best possible services to their customers and help them solve their system error issues. A Live online chat option is also available for providing the best possible technical support. By overcoming these errors, help is provided for making your computer work in an efficient and effective way.

CAUSES OF THE WINDOWS ACTIVATION ERROR 0XC004F211

1. The hardware of the device has been changed.
2. The product key is not found on the device.

SOLUTIONS FOR FIXING WINDOWS ACTIVATION ERROR 0XC004F211

This windows activation error oxc004f211 can be solved by following the below-given steps :

A. To run the Windows activation troubleshooter by following the below-given steps-

• Open the Windows settings using the Win+I keys.
• Select the updates and security options.
• Go to the activation section.
• Then, click on the troubleshooting link.
• UAC prompts the screen, click on the yes button.
• The problem will detect Windows activation.
• When the process is completed, select the link which says that I changed the hardware on this device recently.
• Using the credentials, sign in to the Microsoft account.
• Select the device and then choose the activate button.
• After the completion of the process, restart the windows and check if the issue has been solved.

B.  To have a new license is also one of the solutions to fix the Windows activation error oxc004f211.

C. To make small changes in the hardware of the device.

D.  The product key can also be changed for solving these windows activation error.

Following solutions are provided for solving the windows activation error oxc004f211 in a reliable, easy, and sustainable manner. If in case these solutions do not work, then experts can be called to solve this error and technical support is also provided through online live chat for solving your problem in a quick way.

Excel tech guru provides Windows 10 support with the assistance of their team of highly qualified, experienced technicians who are best in solving these windows activation errors. The best possible troubleshoot support is provided for solving this error issue in a quick, fast manner. Instant support services are provided which enables us to deliver the best of services and helps the customers in solving their issues by providing them with easy, simple solutions.

You can also take the help of our video which can help you to solve your problem very easily:

Read these given articles related to other window error query may prove useful to you :

• How to Fix Windows 10 Activation Error 0xc004f025
• How to Fix WINDOWS 10 ACTIVATION ERROR OXC004C003

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I have Windows 10 installed in a virtual machine on VirtualBox.

Recently, I switched out the hard drive in that host system, for an SSD, and migrated the VM back onto that machine. I.e. all that has changed in the hardware setup, is the SSD, however this shouldn’t be transparent to the guest OS anyway.

Now, after re-starting that VM, I’m getting a Windows 10 activation error:

Windows reported that the hardware of your device has changed. Error code: 0xC004F211

It further tells me, that the product key I’ve entered, cannot be used on the copy of Windows.

This VM was originally a Win7 VM, and I’ve then upgraded to Win10, which went fine. This is the first time I’ve had a problem like that.

When going through Settings > Activation > Troubleshoot It lingers around a little, and finally ends with:

Troubleshooting has completed

We weren’t able to activate Windows on this device.

When I click on «I recently changed hardware in this Computer» it just shows me an error message:

Unable to activate Windows

We can’t find any devices linked to your Microsoft account that can be used to reactivate the device that you’re using at the moment. Make sure that you’re signed in with the same Microsoft account that you linked to the Windows 10 digital license on this device or try again later.

When I click on «other devices linked to this account» it doesn’t show anything, as there are none.

This is the only way I use Windows, it’s this one VM, too.

The product key isn’t an OEM key. I’ve been given that key while upgrading from Windows 7. And as I said, it’s a VM, not any particular hardware.

I’m kind of scared a little that things will lock up. I need this VM for work, but at the same time, I don’t see why I should get another Windows 10 license, when move the VM onto a different hypervisor.

I’m also confused in what to make of the «try again later» message.

How do I get rid of the «needs activation» error, and how do I re-activate my Windows 10 on a VM?