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How do I activate my windows 11 OS after updating from windows 10

Klaus Sievert 25 Reputation points
2025-11-28T14:32:53.5533333+00:00

Hello all, I came from an activated version of windows 10 and had to update to windows 11 in order to support an app I need to run. Upon launching W11, I check the settings and find out I need to activate Windows. Troubleshooter did not do me any help nor did I have anything in my hardware changed. I reverted back to W10 and got my backup product key in the registry, updated once again to W11 to change my product key. Upon entering the product key from before I encounter error 0x80080005. I am sure I am connected to the internet at all times and left wondering how I need to reactivate windows when I just came from an activated copy. Your help in activating my copy of W11 will be greatly appreciated.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Licensing and activation
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  1. DaveM121 875.1K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-11-28T15:05:16.41+00:00

    Upgrading from Windows 10 to 11 should not cause Windows to deactivate, the upgrade is free.

    1

    Where did you get your Windows licence was that pre-installed on the PC or did you purchase a full retail Windows licence from Microsoft or from a 3rd party retailer?

    2

    Click your Start Button, type cmd then right click Command Prompt and choose 'Run as Administrator'

    Run or paste this command and hit Enter:

    slmgr.vbs /dlv

    Please post a screenshot of the resulting dialog

    3

    Download the free ShowKeyPlus app from the Microsoft Store.

    Please provide a screenshot of that app window and please hide your product key in the screenshot.

    Was this answer helpful?

    1 person found this answer helpful.

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