Windows can present an error during activation for a wide range of reasons, run through these general troubleshooting steps in the order listed.
- Internet Connection & Time
Make sure your PC is connected to the internet and that the system date and time is set correctly for your local timezone.
- Activation Troubleshooter
Run the Windows Activation Troubleshooter which will attempt to automatically locate and resolve any issues.
- Windows Update
Check Windows Update for any outstanding updates, install and complete any outstanding updates so Windows is fully updated.
- System Restart
Restart your computer and retry activation. It’s amazing how many things a simple reboot fixes.
- Phone Activation
Use the toll-free phone activation service by clicking Activate by Phone on the Activation page.
If you do not see this button, you can launch it by typing into the Windows Search Bar “SLUI 4“, hit enter to run command. A window will open asking for your country or region, follow the on-screen instructions.