Quick checks first
- Check your internet connection, and that your PC's date, time and time zone are right.
- Copy and paste the key from your account to avoid typos (letters like O and 0, or B and 8).
- Make sure the key matches your edition: a Pro key won't activate Home unless you upgrade, and the other way round.
Common error codes
| Code | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
0xC004F050 | The key isn't valid for this Windows. | Check for typos and that the key matches your edition (Home or Pro). |
0xC004C003 | Microsoft's servers rejected the key. | Contact us with a screenshot. We'll check it and send a replacement if needed. |
0xC004C008 | The key has reached its activation limit. | Contact us with your order number. |
0x803F7001 | Windows didn't find a license, often after a reinstall or hardware change. | Enter your key in Settings › System › Activation › Change product key. |
0xC004F213 | No product key was found on this PC. | Enter your key with Change product key. |
0xC004F074 or 0x8007232B | Windows is set up to look for a company activation server (KMS). | Enter your own key with Change product key. This switches Windows to normal activation. |
0x80072F8F | Windows couldn't make a secure connection. | Correct your date and time, check your internet connection, then try again. |
Run the Activation troubleshooter
In Settings › System › Activation, select Troubleshoot (only shown when Windows isn't activated). It fixes many problems automatically, including after hardware changes.
Still not activated?
Contact us with your order number and a screenshot of the Activation page. If the key is faulty, we replace it, as described in our refund and replacement policy.
Still stuck?Send us a screenshot of the error and your order number on the contact page. If a key won't activate, we fix it or send a replacement.