I recently took my PC to a store for some work, and when I got it back, I noticed that Windows 11 is installed but not activated. It was activated before I took it in. What steps can I take to reactivate it without having to pay for a new Windows key?
4 Answers
You can try opening the command prompt as an administrator and running the command `cscript.exe slmgr.vbs /ato`. If that doesn't work, just use `slmgr.vbs /ato` alone. That should help reestablish the activation.
Yeah, is that safe? I don't want to mess anything up.
Worst case, you could get a Windows key for as low as $5 from some online retailers. Just make sure they're reputable before you buy!
What version should I choose if I currently have Windows 11 Home?
I've used them for years without issues!
I might go that route as a last resort!
Honestly, your best bet might be to just go back to the store where you got the work done. They should help you sort it out without making you pay again.
If that doesn't work, go to Settings and search for 'Activation'. See if Windows can try to reactivate itself from there. Sometimes it just needs a little nudge. If all fails, there should be a contact number for Microsoft Activations.
What does that command actually do?