DISM Windows activation

Question

Hello,

I recently joined a company as a IT technical support, I need assistance / Explanation regarding our Windows installation process.

We use two USB drives for installations: one with a Windows 10 ISO and another with a Windows 11 ISO. During the setup of a new laptop or workstation, we have register an email address to create computer account. After account creation, I then have run the DISM command to change the license and upgrade to the Pro or Enterprise version. (this is the short version i prior to this to dism online get target editions, start the license manager etc. I felt this is wasting my time having to register and email etc..

So I created a boot-able USB disk with with the Enterprise version of Windows, but I am unable to apply or change the license using the DISM and slmgr commands. Specifically, slmgr /upk and slmgr /ipk xxxxxxxxxxxxx fail to register the license.

The main issue is that with the Enterprise or Pro version, I can to choose "Domain Joined" instead of registering an email account. I need to understand why I can upgrade to Enterprise from a consumer device but cannot change the license when built with an Enterprise ISO.

Answer 1

Hello

It sounds like you’re dealing with a few different issues related to Windows installation and licensing. Let’s break it down:

1. Email Registration During Setup

When setting up a new laptop or workstation with a consumer version of Windows (Home or Pro), you’re often prompted to register an email address to create a Microsoft account. This can be bypassed by using a local account or domain join option, but it seems you’re looking for a more streamlined process.

2. Using DISM and SLMGR Commands

The DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) and SLMGR (Software Licensing Management Tool) commands are used to manage and change Windows editions and licenses. Here are some common issues and solutions:

DISM Command: When upgrading from a consumer version to Enterprise, the command DISM /online /Set-Edition:Enterprise /ProductKey:XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX /AcceptEula should work. Ensure that:

The product key is valid and matches the edition you’re upgrading to.

The system has an active internet connection.

You run the command prompt as an administrator.

SLMGR Command: The slmgr /upk (uninstall product key) and slmgr /ipk (install product key) commands should also work. If they fail, it could be due to:

Incorrect product key.

Network issues.

Administrative privileges.

3. Enterprise ISO and Licensing Issues

When you create a bootable USB with the Enterprise version of Windows, it should allow you to choose “Domain Joined” during setup, bypassing the need for a Microsoft account. However, if you’re unable to change the license using DISM and SLMGR, it might be due to:

Activation Requirements: Enterprise editions often require activation through a Key Management Service (KMS) or a Multiple Activation Key (MAK). Ensure you’re using the correct type of key.

Edition Mismatch: Make sure the edition of Windows you’re trying to install matches the product key you’re using.

4. Possible Solutions

Check Product Key: Verify that the product key is correct and matches the edition of Windows you’re installing.

Use KMS Activation: If you’re in an enterprise environment, consider setting up a KMS server for activation.

Local Account Setup: During installation, you can bypass the Microsoft account requirement by selecting “Domain Join Instead” or using a local account setup method.

Answer 2

Hello

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