Windows 10: I can't re-activate Windows because it thinks I have 10 Pro ...

I bought a new laptop straight off the shelf about 3 years ago that came with Windows 10. It worked great for about a year and a half, then suddenly, after an "update" I couldn't do anything with it. I did the troubleshooting and it told me that I was running Windows 10 PRO on a computer only authorized for Windows 10 (the home version). I've never owned, bought or even looked at Pro and I'm the only one that uses my laptop, so I know I didn't install it nor did anyone else. It had to have happened when the update ran.


My problem is now I can't use Windows for anything because I can't activate it. The only product key that I can find is for the Pro version. I can't afford to go out and buy Windows 10 to reinstall it, and I don't really see why I should have to even if I could afford it. This was Microsoft's mistake. So my question is this - I have all my files that I want to keep saved to a thumb drive. Is there a way that I can do a "restore factory settings" on my laptop? Or would that even solve the problem?

:)

 

Windows 10 Activation Error: 0xC004F034

Hi Greg,

This error code is usually caused by a problem with the product key. For better assistance, we would like to clarify how you got the Windows 10 Pro? Is it supplied by a company?

As an initial troubleshooting step, we suggest that you run the Activation troubleshooter and try activating Windows 10 Pro again. To run the Activation troubleshooter, follow these steps:

• Click the Start button and select the Settings
  icon.
• Choose Update & Security from the list.
• Select Activation in the left pane of the window.
• Click Troubleshoot.

If your Windows 10 Pro is supplied by a company, we recommend that you get in touch with your organization's support for assistance with the activation.

We'll be waiting to your reply.

 

Can't upgrade from Windows 10 Home to Pro

Hi Bill,

Thank you for posting your query in Microsoft Community. We apologize for the inconvenience caused and will assist you in the best possible ways.

I suggest you to download and create an installation media for Windows 10 Pro form the link provided below:

Download Windows 10

After the installation media is created, suggest you to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro from the installation media. When the upgrade asks for product key, enter the product key purchased for Windows 10 Pro. If it does not accept, suggest you to skip the activation
step. After the Operating System is installed, suggest you to activate by phone by following the steps below:

• Press “Windows key + R” and type “slui 4” and press Enter.
• Select the Region from the list and click Next.
• Call the Toll-Free number provided on top and can activate via phone.

Hope this helps. Keep us posted on the status for further assistance.

 

Windows 10 Activation (Insider)

How long did you wait for activation?
When I re-installed with a fresh install... it took a few hours to sync and activate.
However, it did, finally, activate.