Help & Support

Fixing Windows “Product Key Did Not Work” Error

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If you are getting the “The product key you enter didn’t work, check the product key and try again or enter a different one.” error when trying to activate Microsoft Windows, please see below simple steps to follow to activate your software.

Why this happens

Often this error can also be related to a Windows registry issue when upgrading from Windows Home to Windows 11 Professional, or from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Sometimes being connected to the internet can cause problems during activation. We recommend disconnecting your internet and trying again.

Step by step guide

Please try the steps below as a workaround.

  1. Restart your PC.
  2. Disconnect the internet connection of your PC.
  3. Press Windows key + I, then go to Update & Security > Activation.
  4. In the right panel click the “Change product key” link, then use Microsoft’s temporary generic key below to upgrade Windows 11 Pro.
    VK7JG-NPHTM-C97JM-9MPGT-3V66T
  5. Wait for Windows to fully upgrade.
  6. Restart your PC and connect to the internet.
  7. Use your valid Windows Pro product key to activate the system. Or activate using the activation troubleshooter.
    If you need help, you can view our article here: https://www.easyactivation.net/activating-windows-11-professional/
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