Windows 10: Why is my Windows 11 pro Key not activating after PC Reset?

I currently have Windows 11 Pro activated on my device, and the system needed a reset because of a boot error that could not be rectified by either by sing Start up Repair or System Restore. A Windows Reset was done through a fresh cloud installation of Windows. Now, my Windows 11 Pro Key which is supposed to be automatically activated, is just not working. While activating, errors keep showing up, the current one is 0xc004f050. Activation Troubleshooter was of no help. The weirdest part is my Microsoft account is showing the PC installed & activated Windows 11 Pro when I hit the Find my P

:)

 

Windows 11 Pro activation key

Thanks for reaching out! I'm an Independent Advisor and a Microsoft user like you.

Have you tried logging in with the account linked to the digital license on your device? I've provided a few steps you can try including some more you can follow:

1. Link your Microsoft account: Ensure that your Microsoft account is linked to the digital license on your device. Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info and check if your Microsoft account is listed there. If not, click "Sign in with a Microsoft account instead" to link your account.
   
2. Run the Activation Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Activation, and click the "Troubleshoot" button. This will launch the Activation Troubleshooter, which can help reactivate Windows after a hardware change if your Microsoft account is linked correctly.
   
3. Enter your existing product key: If the Troubleshooter doesn't resolve the issue, try entering your existing Windows 11 Pro product key. Go to Settings > System > Activation, and click "Change product key." Enter the key you used previously to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro.
   

If you are still having issues after trying these steps, please let me know. I'll be happy to help.

 

Windows 8.1 pro + WMC key activation

This worked for me last time with a Win 8 key.

Install Windows 8.1 and enter KMS key during setup. Once in windows change product key to my Windows 8 key. Go to add features and enter my WMC add-on key. Drink a beer to a job well done.

 

Windows 8.1 pro + WMC key activation

So it will be fine installing 8.1 pro with a KMS key, then switch to my 8 pro key and it will activate ok?

Maybe a daft question but why can't you just install 8.1 pro with the 8 pro key, or is it different keys for 8 and 8.1? seems silly when 8.1 is a free update anyway.