I'm in a bit of a pickle with a workstation at my small business. We recently upgraded it to Windows 11, but now it seems to have forgotten its Windows activation key. We don't have volume licensing; it was initially set up with an OEM license for Windows 10. Is it legal for me to activate it using the Microsoft Activation Scripts (MAS), or should I steer clear of that option? This is just one machine, and I've been hesitant to take any action without knowing the legalities involved.
3 Answers
It sounds like you might be dealing with an OEM license. If you upgraded from Windows 10 Home to 11 Pro, for example, the original key may not work anymore. Have you checked if there's a key stored in the BIOS? Some tools can read it for you, and it might solve your activation issue.
To be honest, I wouldn’t risk using third-party keys from sites like G2A. It's always best to stick to official methods. Plus, if an audit comes around, having no proof of a valid key can be a headache. You might want to consider finding the invoice for your pre-built PC; that could potentially serve as proof of your license.
If you're having trouble activating, don’t forget to try the built-in troubleshooter. Sometimes after a reimaging, systems need a little nudge, and the troubleshooter can uncover a hidden key that’s still there!
That makes sense! I’ll check for the invoice just in case.