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Asus laptop update to Windows 11 won't allow me to activate Windows

Jon Sizemore 0 Reputation points
2026-01-02T19:50:00.9066667+00:00

I have an Asus ZenBook I bought in 2021. I recently updated to Windows 11 (per the FREE update) and after a few weeks, my network adaptor stopped working. I had to reset back to a previous save, and then run the diagnostic update on the core files (not sure I've got this language right) via the repair function. That fixed the internet issue, but now my computer keeps telling me I have to activate Windows (which was NOT an issue before).

I've tried all the troubleshooting online I can find access to, and still no solution. I am at a loss for what to do. From what I've gathered, Asus says the motherboard has the key imbedded in it, and that the issue is with Microsoft. I have tried the cmd prompt (wmic path softwarelicensingservice get oa3xoriginalproductkey) to show the key, but it is saying there is an error.

I can't seem to find a single way to connect to an actual person or chat bot at Microsoft on this issue, and that alone is extremely frustrating. So hopefully someone here can lend some insight.

Thank you in advance.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Licensing and activation
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  1. EmilyS726 236K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-01-02T20:23:30.7566667+00:00

    Can you please type cmd in the search on the taskbar and hit enter to launch command prompt, then run the following command:

    slmgr /dlv

    Then share a screenshot please. Thanks!

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  2. EmilyS726 236K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-01-04T14:42:28.38+00:00

    You can try Neil's suggestion, or do a repair install using the iso. That typically could address the issue like this.

    To perform a repair installation of Windows 11 using the Windows Media Creation Tool:

    The following steps should be done on a working Windows computer:

    Download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's official website. https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11 click on the "download now" button under "Create Windows 11 Installation Media"

    Run the tool and select "Create installation media for another PC."

    Choose "USB flash drive" as the media to use for the installation and select "Next."

    Connect a USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of free space to your computer.

    Select the USB flash drive you want to use, and then select "Next."

    The tool will then download the required files and create the installation media.

    =====================================================

    Now these steps will  be done on your problematic computer:

    Go to the USB drive via File Explorer, locate and run the Setup.exe file. Ideally, you should disconnect all USB and Bluetooth devices other than mouse and keyboard. Disable any 3rd party antivirus program. Disconnect the internet.

    Once you run the Setup.exe file, choose the Install option, and the choose the option that keeps your files and apps.

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