How To Fix Windows License Expired Error
How To Fix Windows License Expired Error
How to Fix a Laptop That’s Showing a “Windows License Expired” Error
If your laptop is displaying a “Windows license expired” error, it means that your Windows operating system is no longer activated. This issue can cause system limitations, such as disabling personalization settings and displaying persistent activation messages. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix a Windows license expired error and reactivate Windows without losing data.
In this guide, we will walk you through the most effective solutions to fix a laptop with an expired Windows license and ensure your system remains activated.
Why Am I Seeing a “Windows License Expired” Message?
Your laptop may show the Windows license expired error for several reasons:
- Your Windows product key is no longer valid.
- Your system was activated with a temporary or trial key.
- Your laptop had a corporate or volume license that is no longer supported.
- There was an issue with Windows activation servers.
- A recent Windows update caused the activation status to change.
- You reinstalled or changed hardware on your laptop, affecting activation.
How to Fix a Windows License Expired Error
1. Check Your Windows Activation Status
Before fixing the issue, check your Windows activation status:
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Activation.
- Check if Windows is activated or if there is an error code displayed.
2. Use the Activation Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in troubleshooter to fix activation issues:
- Open Settings (Win + I).
- Navigate to Update & Security > Activation.
- Click on Troubleshoot and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Re-enter Your Product Key
If you have a genuine Windows product key, try re-entering it:
- Open Settings (Win + I).
- Go to Update & Security > Activation.
- Click Change product key.
- Enter your 25-digit product key and click Next.
- Follow the prompts to activate Windows.
4. Activate Windows Using CMD (Command Prompt)
If you are unable to activate through Settings, try using Command Prompt:
- Search for CMD in the Start menu and Run as administrator.
Type the following command and press Enter:
slmgr -rearm
- Restart your laptop and check if the issue is resolved.
5. Extend the Trial Period (Temporary Fix)
If you are using a trial version of Windows, you can extend the trial:
- Open Command Prompt (Admin).
Type the following command and press Enter:
slmgr /xpr
This command checks the expiration date. If you still have time, you can extend it with:
slmgr /rearm
- Restart your laptop.
6. Buy a Genuine Windows License
If your current Windows license is invalid, you may need to purchase a new one:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
- Click on Go to Microsoft Store to buy a genuine Windows key.
- Follow the activation steps.
7. Reactivate Windows After Hardware Changes
If you recently changed hardware (e.g., motherboard), Windows might need reactivation:
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
- Click Troubleshoot and select I changed hardware on this device recently.
- Sign in to your Microsoft account and follow the prompts to reactivate Windows.
8. Use a Digital License Linked to Your Microsoft Account
If you previously activated Windows with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account:
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info.
- Ensure you are signed in with the same Microsoft account.
- Navigate to Activation and check if Windows is linked to your account.
9. Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If all else fails, reinstalling Windows may be necessary:
- Back up your files.
- Download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft.
- Follow the instructions to create a bootable USB and reinstall Windows.
- Enter a valid product key during installation.
Conclusion
The Windows license expired error can be frustrating, but it is fixable. By following these solutions, you can reactivate Windows on your laptop and avoid activation issues. If you need further assistance, consider purchasing a genuine Windows license from Jumuah Industrial Company Limited to ensure smooth operation and avoid future errors.
