How can I get support in reactivating Windows?

Question

I had to get a new PC setup because Windows 11 did not support my CPU. Upon building a new PC and setting it up with my harddrives, Windows now says it needs to be reactivated because the hardware changed. However, it is unable to reactivate because it says its reactivated too many times. I wouldn't have had to reactivate Windows if my previous hardware was still supported.

How can I get support in resetting this? I keep going in circles in the self-help documentation.

Answer 1

Hi Ian, I completely understand how frustrating this must be you’ve already gone through the hassle of upgrading your hardware because Windows 11 didn’t support your old CPU and now you’re stuck in an endless loop just trying to reactivate something you already paid for

If Windows won’t reactivate after your hardware upgrade first check if your license is Retail or OEM. Then try the Activation Troubleshooter in Settings and select I changed hardware recently. If that fails reenter your product key reset activation using PowerShell commands or contact Microsoft Support to manually reset your activation limit.

Have you already linked your Windows license to your Microsoft account before the hardware change or was it only activated locally on the old PC?

Best regards

Lucky Charm