1. Switch network connections, 2. Run the activation troubleshooting. Try using a different Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection and check whether there are problems caused by proxy in public or corporate networks; if using mobile hotspots, restart or replace the hotspot; temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus software that may interfere; then use Windows built-in activation troubleshooting tool for checking and repairing.

You're trying to activate Windows, but suddenly this error pops up: “We can't activate Windows on this device.” It's frustrating, especially if you're sure you have a valid license. The good news is, it's often fixed without needing expert help. Here are the most common causes and how to handle them.

1. Check Your Internet Connection

Windows activation requires an internet connection — even if you already entered a product key. If your network is unstable or blocked, activation will fail.

• Try switching to a different Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection.
• Temporarily disable any firewall or antivirus software that might be interfering.
• On public or corporate networks, check if there's a proxy in use — sometimes these block activation attempts.

If you're using a mobile hotspot, try restarting it or switching to another one. Sometimes cellular-based connections work better than certain fixed broadband settings.

2. Use the Built-in Activation Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter for activation issues. It doesn't always fix everything, but it's quick and worth trying first.

Here's how to run it:

• Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot (or just search "Troubleshoot settings").
• Scroll down and click on Other troubleshooters .
• Find Activation in the list and click Run .

The tool will scan for common problems like missing service components or connectivity errors and attempt to fix them automatically.

3. Make Sure You're Using the Right License Type

This error shows up when Windows tries to activate with the wrong kind of license — for example, trying to activate a retail license on a device that originally came with an OEM license (or vice versa).

Some things to check:

• If you upgraded from a previous version, make sure the new license matches your hardware configuration.
• If you replaced your motherboard recently, Windows may no longer recognize your device as the same one.
• If you used a digital license tied to a Microsoft account, sign in to account.microsoft.com and verify your devices list includes this one.

If you're not sure what kind of license you have:

• Press Win R , type slmgr.vbs /dli , and hit Enter. This will show current license info.

4. Reactivate Manually or Contact Support

Sometimes automatic activation fails due to backend issues or regional restrictions. In that case, you may need to call Microsoft support directly.

To start manual reactivation:

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• Run: slui.exe 4
  This opens the activation window with phone support options based on your region.

Calling support might seem like a last resort, but it's often faster than guessing at fixes. Have your product key ready and be prepared to briefly explain your situation (eg, upgraded hardware, changed drives, etc.).

Basically, that's it. Most cases fall into one of these categories. Fix We cant activate Windows on this device error We cant activate Windows on this device error We cant activate Windows on this device erroring the internet, running the troubleshooter, confirming your license type, or reaching out manually usually usually clears it up.

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