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FIX: Windows Activation Error 0x80041023 [4 Quick Ways]
3 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Error 0x80041023 is a Windows activation issue that can arise for some users. That activation error can arise for users trying to upgrade fromWindows 10Home to the Pro edition, upgrade from an older Windows OS, or reinstall the platform.
The activation error 0x80041023 message statesThe product key you entered didn’t work(0x80041023). Consequently, users can’t activateWindows 10when that error arises.
How can I fix Windows activation error 0x80041023?
1. Check you’re entering the product key right
2. Activate Windows 10 with the SLMGR command
3. Get a new, valid key
If you’re reinstallingWindows 10, bear in mind that the key you activated the platform with before might be one-time use MAK key. If that’s the case, you can’t active a reinstalled platform with the same MAK key.
In which case, you’ll need to get a newWindows 10activation key from MS Store or Amazon.
Windows 10 Home
4. Are you trying to upgrade from an OEM license?
Activation error 0x80041023 will also arise for users trying to upgrade fromWindows 10Home to Pro with OEM licenses. Those OEM licenses are only intended for new PCs.
Thus, activation won’t work for Windows 10 Pro on a PC that originally came with OEMWindows 10Home. In which case, you’ll need to reinstall the originalWindows 10Home and upgrade to the Pro edition via MS Store.
To check if yourproduct keyis OEM non-transferable, reinstallWindows 10Home. Then open the Command Prompt. Input the following line and press Enter:slmgr /dli
Thereafter, a Script Host window will open that tells you your license type.
If none of the above resolutions fix activation error 0x80041023, contactMicrosoftsupport.
Microsoft’sCustomer Service number pageincludes a list of phone numbers for various regions.
Let us know how you managed to resolve this issue by leaving us a message in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Activation Errors
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.