Hello Jason, I am Henry. I'd like to share some insights regarding the issue.
Before we try to fix anything, please help me check your current License Status by running this command slmgr.vbs /dlv as Administrator. You can refer this Slmgr.vbs options for obtaining volume activation information document.
A window titled "Windows Script Host" will pop up with a lot of information. Please look for these specific lines:
- Activation Status: This will tell you if you are licensed, in a grace period, or in a notification state.
- Partial Product Key: This shows the last 5 characters of the key currently installed on your PC.
- Product Key Channel: This is very important. It will say Retail, OEM, or Volume (GVLK/KMS).
What to look for:
- Does the Partial Product Key match the last 5 characters of the key you are trying to use? If not, the wrong key is installed.
- Does the Product Key Channel show "Volume" or "GVLK"? This is a generic key used by large organizations. If you have a personal Retail or OEM key, this generic key will block your activation and must be replaced.
Now, based on what you find, proceed with the solutions below.
Solution 1: If the Wrong Key is Installed (Based on /dlv results)
If the /dlv command showed the wrong "Partial Product Key" or a "Volume:GVLK" channel, your first step is to install your correct key.
- In the same administrator Command Prompt, first uninstall the incorrect key by typing:
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slmgr /upk
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- Now, install your correct 25-character product key (replace the Xs):
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slmgr /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
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- Finally, try to activate Windows online:
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slmgr /ato
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Solution 2: Generate a New Installation ID for Phone Activation. You can refer Product activation for Windows – online & support telephone numbers
- Press the Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type slui 4 and press Enter.
- Select your country or region.
- A new screen will appear with a fresh Installation ID and a phone number. This ID is now the correct one to use.
- Call the number and provide this new IID to the automated system.
- Enter the Confirmation ID you receive to complete the activation.
Hope one of these works for you. If you find this guidance helpful, you're welcome to click 'Accept Answer'—it helps others find useful solutions too.