Windows 10: How does one contact someone to get windows 11 activated again changed hardware

Ok I bought Windows 10 key about 4-5 years ago and have no idea where that key is but normally if I reset PC and use same Email it would automatically get the key and activate.This time however I changed the motherboard, CPU and memory sticks but the same email did not get the automatic key working, I have tried the troubleshoot but without success. I also tried talking to an agent but the only way is giving the phone number and waiting for that phone call but its been weeks and no calls...Is there any other way to get help as they just don't call and I don't want to have to buy a new key...

:)

 

Activating Windows 11 after a hardware change

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

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you reactivate your Windows 11:

1. Check Activation Status:
   
   • Open Settings.
     
   • Go to System > Activation.
     
   • Ensure that your Windows is listed as activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.
     
2. Link Microsoft Account:
   
   • If your Microsoft account is not linked, you need to link it first.
     
   • In Settings, go to Accounts and ensure your Microsoft account is linked to your Windows.
     
3. Run Activation Troubleshooter:
   
   • Go to Settings > System > Activation.
     
   • Click on Troubleshoot.
     
   • The troubleshooter will detect that Windows can't be activated on your device.
     
4. Select Hardware Change Option:
   
   • In the troubleshooter, select I changed hardware on this device recently.
     
5. Sign In to Microsoft Account:
   
   • Enter your Microsoft account credentials.
     
   • From the list of devices linked to your Microsoft account, select the checkbox next to This is the device I’m using right now.
     
   • If you don’t see your device, ensure you are signed in with the correct Microsoft account.
     
6. Activate Windows:
   
   • Click Activate.
     

If you encounter issues where the edition does not match, it is likely because the digital license linked to your account is for Windows 10 Home, and you are now running Windows 11 Home. This mismatch can sometimes cause activation issues.

• Edition Mismatch: If the troubleshooter indicates an edition mismatch, ensure that you are using the same edition of Windows that was originally linked to your digital license. In your case, both should be Home editions, so this should not be an issue.
  
• Correct Microsoft Account: Double-check that you are using the same Microsoft account that was linked to your digital license.
  

Please do let me know if the method I suggested works for you or if you need further assistance.

 

windows activation—hardware changed siginficantly

From time to time on my thoroughbred PC, I get a Windows activation message that says my hardware changed siginificantly and I have to re-activate Windows. My hardware hasn't changed any more than a network card (went from a wireless g card to onboard lan to a wired network card), and the install is legit. Why is it doing this, and how can I stop it?

 

Windows 11 not activating after reinstalling after changing hardware

Hi Alex，

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

I'm Hahn and I'm here to help you with your concern.

I'm sorry to hear that you're having trouble activating Windows 11 on your new PC.

According to the Microsoft Support website, Windows 11 activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. If you recently made a significant hardware change (such as replacing the motherboard or the drive) or reinstalled Windows, you may need to reactivate Windows 11 on your device.



Here are some steps you can try to fix the activation errors:

If Windows 11 wasn't pre-installed on your device when purchased and you used a product key to upgrade to Windows 11, then you'll need that same product key after the hardware change.

Select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Change Product Key, then enter the product key. Enter your product key in Settings

If you installed a retail copy of Windows 11 on your device using a Windows 11 product key and then made hardware changes, follow this same process using your Windows 11 product key.

I hope this helps you activate Windows 11 on your new PC. If you still have any questions or issues, you can get in touch with a human customer support person by following these steps: Contact - Microsoft Support

Your Sincerely

| Microsoft Community Support Specialist