I have an old custom-built PC running Windows 10 Pro with no activation issues for about four years. Recently, I built a new computer and installed Windows 11. When I tried to activate Windows 11, I used the product key from my old computer, but it turns out it's a default key that shouldn't be used for activation. My question is, how was I able to activate Windows 10 Pro on my old computer with that default key? Also, I noticed that my old PC shows it's activated with a digital license linked to my Microsoft account, but my new Windows 11 setup won't activate even though I'm logged into the same account. I managed to fix the activation issue by using the 'changed hardware' option in the troubleshooter, but I'm still curious about the initial activation of Windows 10.
2 Answers
It sounds like your old computer likely activated Windows 10 using a digital license, not the default key itself. Sometimes, Windows ties itself to your hardware and Microsoft account, so as long as it recognizes your old setup, it doesn't require a valid product key every time you reinstall or upgrade. It's a bit unclear why the default key worked for activation, but it's possible the key merely triggered the process initially, while your account took over afterward. Since you fixed your Windows 11 activation by confirming the hardware change, it seems your Microsoft account was the key to making it all happen! Just glad you got it sorted!
It’s great to hear you sorted out the issue! For a long time, Microsoft was pretty flexible with activation, especially during transitions like upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11. About your old computer, it's not uncommon for Windows to activate under certain conditions even when a default key is involved, as the license is often linked to the hardware. Prior to major updates, it seems they gave users some leeway with validations based on Microsoft accounts. So, it wasn't a total mystery after all!
I think you hit the nail on the head! It’s interesting how Microsoft’s policies can shift with updates, too.
That makes sense! I had a similar situation once where my account seemed to bypass asking for the key entirely. Pretty handy how they manage that stuff!