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Cannot Activate Windows

Youjeen a la mode 0 Reputation points
2025-11-25T12:14:03.3233333+00:00

Hi,

I recently upgraded my computer hardware and installed Windows 11. However, when I try to activate Windows it would not let me. I tried following the steps online by clicking the following:

  1. Settings --> System --> Activation
  2. Activation --> Troubleshoot
  3. Click on "I changed hardware on this device recently"

Afterwards, according to online guides, I should be able to enter my username and password. However, instead of seeing that screen, I got a screen titled "unable to activate windows", and it says "We can't find any devices linked to your Microsoft account that can be used for reactivating the device you're using right now."

My old PC is using Windows 10 but I'm not sure if it matters.

I tried to get online support but it is impossible to chat to an agent. Has anyone faced this before and how do I get my license transferred from the old device?

Thanks all!

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Licensing and activation

3 answers

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  1. Ivan B 112K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-11-26T10:29:32.27+00:00

    Hi ,

    If Neil D is correct about the update, it ends up being an OEM key, so you won't be able to activate it on a new computer with new hardware. You'll have to buy a new Windows key, a retail key, and then you can migrate if you change hardware again without problems.

    This is not possible for OEM keys, especially if it was updated from the free version of Windows 7 and 8.

    https://learn.microsoft.com/pt-br/answers/questions/2338143/(artigo)microsoft-encerra-a-ativa-o-para-a-atualiz?translated=true

    Give feedback if the information was useful or not.

    Thanks

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  2. Neil D 33,095 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2025-11-26T09:11:39.2966667+00:00

    Microsoft blocked the use of a Windows 7 or 8 licence to activate Windows 10 and 11 in 2023. If the licence was originally Windows 7 then you will most likely need a new licence.

    The free upgrade period was 2015 to 2016 and for the life of the device. You have changed hardware so it is a new device. (for activation purposes)

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  3. Ivan B 112K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-11-25T12:48:50.56+00:00

    Hi,

    In this case, you're trying to use the license from your old computer, which was Windows 10, on this new one with Windows 11.

    Was the license from the old computer already activated, or did you buy the license separately?

    Because if it's an OEM license, you've changed the hardware and you won't be able to activate Windows since an OEM license is tied to the previous hardware; in that case, you would have to buy a new license.

    What if it's a separate 25-digit FPP (retail) license, or online?

    Give feedback if the information was useful or not.

    Thanks

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