KMS Activator removal

Hi maranga_570,

Thanks for the detailed explanation.

If the laptop originally came with Windows, it is possible that the Windows product key is embedded in the firmware (UEFI/BIOS).

What I recommended first is to try retrieving the key from BIOS:

1. Boot into Linux.
2. Open a terminal and run:

sudo strings /sys/firmware/acpi/tables/MSDM

• if you get a 25-character alphanumeric key, you can use it to install Windows 11 automatically.

If you are unable to found a key, your friend may stick to Linux.

You could factory reset or reinstall Linux to clean up the PC.

I hope this helps. If you need further assistance you can reply to this message.

Thank you,

April P.

Independent Advisor

the person that gifted bought the pc and the windows 11 that came with the product key. However, the person that gifted has no idea where's this code.

So at this point, is it better to just factory reset the PC and use Linux?

That is one option. The other option is for your friend to logon with their Microsoft Account, using YOUR computer, and purchase a legitimate license for Windows 11 from Microsoft. Then, install from this "trusted" media & product-key.

Well, I just found out that windows didn't came with my friends pc, the pc came with linux. The problem is, my friend got the notebook as a gift, the person that gifted bought the pc and the windows 11 that came with the product key. However, the person that gifted has no idea where's this code. They are older so they are not very accustomed with technology and probably threw away. So at this point, is it better to just factory reset the pc and use Linux?

Hi maranga_570,

This is April, I'll be happy to assist you. Sorry to hear on what happened to your friend's Office license and PC. Let me help you out.

Just a heads up that KMS activators are illegal and often bundled with crack Office/Windows activators and sources of malware. Let me help you on how to properly clean or save your friend's PC.

The PC is not totally doomed, but you need to do a secure disk erase because a standard Windows reinstall is not enough to fully remove everything.

Steps to clean the system:

1. Back up only safe personal files (not programs or installers) Don't back up files with extensions like .exe, .bat, or .msi as these have a hidden malware.
2. Before restoring, it is best to scan your backup files using another computer.

Do Clean Reinstallation:

In clean installation, be reminded that everything inside your device such as

files and programs that you installed yourself will be wiped out leaving the

operating system alone. It's like going back to its original settings. So

before doing this, I would recommend doing a backup first of your important

files to avoid any data loss.

Clean Installation (Process) by Andre Da Costa - https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/insider/for...

1. Plug the bootable flash drive on the PC.
2. Restart the PC
3. Once the Manufacturer's logo appeared, press any keys to interrupt.
4. You should see the installation page. If not, you need to change the boot sequence and set the USB as first boot for the device.
5. Restart PC again.
6. You will see the setup screen. Choose language, time and currency format and Keyboard input method and then Choose Install
7. Enter or Skip the Activation part.
8. Accept the License Term and click Next.
9. Delete all the drives until it shows “unallocated drive 0” Appears, select that drive (or select your SSD drive) and proceed with the installation.
10. Wait for the installation to complete and you're all set.

Please do not use again KMS or Cracked Licenses, its unsafe and often comes with malware. Use a legitimate license through Microsoft Store or trusted source.

Once the Windows reinstalled, scan Windows Defender.

If you have any other questions or concern, please don’t hesitate to contact us again. We’re here to help, and we appreciate your continued trust in us.

Warm Regards,

April P.

Independent Advisor