Automatic Activation Windows

Question

Hello,

I am reaching out to you regarding a problem related to the activation of Windows on my computer.

After reinstalling Windows, I noticed that the system automatically activates, even when I use an image that I thought did not contain an activation key. Previously, I activated Windows through the command line (CMD), and now the system continues to activate automatically. I have tried to remove the product key via the command line and modified settings in the registry, but this did not help.

Additionally, I reset the system through Recovery, but after that, the activation appeared again. I also attempted to install Windows without signing into a Microsoft account, but the system keeps prompting for login.

I would like to know how I can prevent the automatic activation of Windows and use the system without a license. I would appreciate your assistance and recommendations on how to resolve this issue.

Thank you for your time.

Answer 1

Let's start with something simple.

Previously, when you activated Windows, the process "called-home" to Microsoft to register your product-key.

If you reinstall Windows, while having an Internet connection (WiFi to your ISP's router, or Ethernet cable to your ISP's routers), it will again "call-home" to retrieve the registered product key. So, install Windows WITHOUT any connection, so that it cannot try to activate.

However, newer computers have a product-key embedded in the motherboard. The Windows installer will retrieve that product-key, and will automatically use it. I do not know of any way to prevent this type of activation.

Note that when installing Windows, you must click "I do not have Internet", to avoid the request to supply your Microsoft ID.

You will perform a "limited install", and you will create a "local" account that is NOT linked to any Microsoft ID.

Answer 2

Hello,

Thank you for sharing your concern on community forum.

As per my understanding, you are facing the issue regarding windows activation. Here are some steps you can consider that might solve your issue.

1. Here are some commands you can run in your command prompt.

• Open command prompt as administrator.
• Slmgr.vbs /dlv - It will show the key which is installed currently in your operating system.
• Slmgr.vbs /upk - This command will uninstall the product key from operating system.
• Slmgr.vbs /cpky - This command will clear the product key from the registry.
• Slmgr.vbs /rearm - This command will reset the licensing status of the machine.

These commands will remove the activation key from the motherboard. It might be possible that after using that steps it might happen again. So, permanently troubleshoot the issue. I would suggest you clean install the windows. It will permanently remove the product key from your motherboard.

Disclaimer - Microsoft is not responsible for any data loss that may occur due to software updates, accidental deletion, hardware failures, or system errors. Users are advised to regularly back up their important files using cloud storage solutions like OneDrive or external storage devices. Microsoft provides troubleshooting resources and support documentation, but recovery of lost data is not guaranteed. For further details on data protection.

I appreciate your understanding and patience.

Kind regards

Zack | Microsoft Community Moderator