License Activation Problem

Question

We are a Paraguayan government entity that acquired Windows Server licenses through an official public bidding process on the DNCP (National Directorate of Public Procurement) portal: https://www.contrataciones.gov.py/. The licenses were successfully deployed on virtual machines running on the Proxmox platform.

Approximately one or two weeks ago, we lost full access to the original Proxmox server due to technical issues. As a result, we lost access to all Windows Server virtual machines containing our legitimate license activations. We deployed a new Proxmox server and proceeded to virtualize Windows Server again. However, when attempting to use our original product keys, we received the error message "This key is associated with another computer."

We need assistance reactivating our legitimate Windows Server licenses on the new virtualized infrastructure. It is important to note that the original virtual machines no longer exist or are accessible.

Answer 1

Hi Milciades Javier Rios Selent, I'm Henry, and I’d like to share my insight on this issue.

The error "This key is associated with another computer" shows up because Windows activation is tied to your system's hardware, even in virtual machines. When the VM was redeployed, it created a new hardware ID, which makes Microsoft think the license is being reused improperly.

Since I’m an independent advisor, I don’t have access to Microsoft’s internal systems or licensing tools. That’s why my recommendation is to contact Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) or Microsoft Support, especially given that this involves a government entity likely using Volume or OEM licensing.

You can either:

• Visit the Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center
• Or call Microsoft Support using the appropriate number from the Global Customer Service list

You might also try activating temporarily by phone:

• On the new Windows Server VM, run slui 4.This opens phone-based activation.
• Select your country
• Call the automated number and briefly explain the situation
• Sometimes this method can temporarily bypass the lockout if you’re reactivating a valid key.

I hope this information is helpful.

Answer 2

Thank you very much.