About a month ago, Microsoft sealed a long-standing vulnerability that had allowed users to activate Windows 10 and 11 using old keys from Windows 7, 8, and 8.1. Microsoft closed the free upgrade path for users of versions before Windows 10, preventing them from upgrading to the new system without payment. However, this change has caused trouble for some systems that should not have been affected.
According to multiple reports, some users found their systems deactivated after changing hardware components or performing BIOS updates. Moreover, the digital license associated with their Microsoft account could no longer activate the operating system, forcing them to either purchase a new key or explore alternative activation methods. Microsoft support has already acknowledged that hardware changes should not result in key activation failure.
Bill Babonas, Chief Product Manager for Windows, confirmed to The Verge that the company is aware of this issue and is exploring possible solutions: “Microsoft has taken note of these user reports and is conducting an investigation. Users experiencing technical difficulties should contact customer support.”
Users can check their Windows activation status by navigating to Settings > System > Activation. Until Microsoft resolves this issue, users can continue using Windows 10 or 11 for a period without activation.
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