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Follow these steps how to Fix ‘0xc004f014 Windows Activation Error’ issue in Windows 11/10. – Despite the fact that a genuine serial key was entered, the Windows 10 activation process is halted by the Error Code 0xc004f014, which prompts on a pop-up window. The reason for this is that the server is unable to read the Key that you entered, despite the fact that Microsoft would have sent it to you officially.
An error that is linked with the activation of Windows 11/10 has occurred. This issue occurs when you attempt to upgrade Windows but are unsuccessful and place a new licence for the operating system. We will have a better knowledge of the problem from the perspective of a Home user after reading this post. In addition, we will discuss the fundamental procedures that need to be taken in order to remedy the issue in the most straightforward manner possible.
Id: 0xc004f014 In the middle of the process of upgrading to Windows 10, the installation of Windows 10 occurs in the OEM System copy. Windows 10 is maintained in a preactivated state when this type of licencing is considered. However, for reasons of safety, the licence key is associated with the motherboard’s operating system (BIOS). However, this technique fails to function properly during the upgrade, which results in the 0xc004f014 error code. Here are the simple ways how to Fix ‘0xc004f014 Windows Activation Error’ issue in Windows 11/10.
Causes of ‘0xc004f014 Windows Activation Error’ issue in Windows 11/10
- Server Issues: Microsoft activation servers may experience temporary outages or issues, preventing successful activation.
- Previous Version Incompatibility: If you are trying to use a product key from a previous version of Windows, it may not be compatible with Windows 11/10.
- Hardware Changes: Significant changes to your computer’s hardware, such as a motherboard replacement, can trigger activation issues.
- Multiple Installations: If the same product key is used for multiple installations, it can result in activation errors.
- Corrupted System Files: Corruption in system files related to activation can lead to this error.
- Software Conflicts: Third-party software or security applications may interfere with the activation process, causing errors.
- Incomplete Installation: If the Windows installation is incomplete or corrupted, activation problems may arise.
- Regional Activation Restrictions: Some product keys may be restricted to specific regions, and attempting to use them elsewhere can trigger activation errors.
How to Fix ‘0xc004f014 Windows Activation Error’ issue in Windows 11/10
Verify Activation Key

- Navigate to ‘Settings‘ on your Windows system.
- Select ‘Update & Security,’ then click on ‘Activation.’
- Confirm that the activation key entered is accurate and corresponds to the version of Windows installed on your system.
- If the key is incorrect, enter the correct one and attempt activation again.
Use the Activation Troubleshooter
- Open ‘Settings‘ and go to ‘Update & Security.’
- Click on ‘Activation‘ and then select ‘Troubleshoot.’
- Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the troubleshooter.
- The troubleshooter will attempt to fix any issues automatically.
Command Prompt Activation
- Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. Right-click on the Start button, select ‘Command Prompt (Admin).’
- Type the following command and press Enter:
slmgr.vbs /ipk YOUR_PRODUCT_KEY
(Replace YOUR_PRODUCT_KEY with your actual product key) - After entering the key, type:
slmgr.vbs /ato
and press Enter. - Wait for the process to complete and check if the error persists.
Check System Files for Corruption
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type:
sfc /scannow
and press Enter. - Allow the scan to complete, and if any issues are found, let the system attempt to repair them.
Update Windows
- Go to ‘Settings‘ and select ‘Update & Security.’
- Click on ‘Windows Update‘ and then ‘Check for updates.’
- Install any available updates and restart your computer.
Conclusion
When a fresh licence key is installed in OEM systems in order to upgrade Windows, the Windows 10 activation error number 0xc004f014 is generated. The Windows activation process was unable to confirm your product key and establish a connection to the activation server, which is the reason for this outcome. When you were using your personal computer, did you ever come across the Windows activation problem number 0xc004f014? In that case, you have arrived to the appropriate location.
Questions and Answers
When a fresh licence key is installed in OEM systems in order to upgrade Windows, the Windows 10 activation error number 0xc004f014 is generated. The Windows activation process was unable to confirm your product key and establish a connection to the activation server, which is the reason for this outcome.
It is possible that you will encounter the error 0xC004E003 if you are utilising an invalid product key for Windows 7. In order to fix this problem, you will need to make sure that you have the appropriate product key and then activate Windows 7 using that key. Make certain that you are connected to the internet in a reliable manner before continuing.
During the installation setup screens, if you are installing Windows for the first time on a new device or motherboard and you do not have a product key, select the option that says “I do not have a product key.” To purchase a digital licence for this device, you will be requested to enter the Microsoft account that you wish to use before proceeding.
You are free to make use of it an unlimited number of times. Having said that, there is a crucial question to ask: Do you possess a retail licence or an OEM licence? If it is a retail licence, you are free to transfer it from one computer to another as many times as you like, provided that you do not have it installed on two computers at the same time.