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Windows 10 in QEMU/KVM reporting not activated

Rudolph Crous 20 Reputation points
2025-12-09T13:39:39.13+00:00

I installed Windows 10 in a QEMU/KVM virtual machine, and activated the license. It is now reporting that the product requires to be activated. When I input the license key procured, it reports that it has already been used.

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Licensing and activation
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  1. Noel Macadangdang 7,850 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-12-09T14:18:09.0766667+00:00

    Hi Rudolph,

    Thank you for sharing your question. I understand why it's annoying when Windows says it's not activated, even after you put in a good product key. I am here to help.

    Windows activation is linked to your computer's hardware. When you install Windows 10 on a QEMU/KVM virtual machine, the hardware looks different. Windows thinks it's on a totally new machine, so the old activation doesn't work. If you try the same key again, it says it's already being used because those keys usually work for just one device at a time.

    Please follow these steps.

    If you bought Windows, you can reactivate it using the Activation Troubleshooter. Go to Windows Settings > Update & Security > Activation, and sign in with your Microsoft account. Then, pick I changed hardware on this device recently.”

     

    If the key came with the computer, it's stuck to that hardware and can't be used on a VM. You'll need to buy a new license for the virtual machine.

     

    Or, you can use a digital license with your Microsoft account. That way, it's simpler to reactivate after hardware changes.

     

    I hope this helps.

     

    Best Regards,

    Noel

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  1. Q&A Assist
    2025-12-09T13:39:49.6566667+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    If Windows 10 is reporting that it requires activation even after you have activated it, there are a few potential reasons for this issue:

    1. Virtual Machine Configuration: Ensure that your QEMU/KVM virtual machine is configured correctly. Sometimes, the virtual hardware configuration can affect activation. Make sure that the VM has sufficient resources and that the virtual hardware is compatible with Windows 10.
    2. License Key Usage: If you are receiving a message that the license key has already been used, it may indicate that the key is tied to a specific hardware configuration. Windows activation keys can sometimes be limited to a certain number of activations or specific hardware. If the VM's hardware changes, it may require reactivation.
    3. Internet Connection: Ensure that the virtual machine has a stable internet connection, as Windows needs to connect to Microsoft's activation servers to verify the key.
    4. KMS Activation: If you are using a Key Management Service (KMS) for activation, ensure that your KMS server is reachable and configured correctly. KMS requires a certain number of activations before it can activate clients.
    5. Troubleshooting Tools: You can use Windows built-in troubleshooting tools to diagnose activation issues. Running the command slmgr.vbs /ato in an elevated command prompt can sometimes help to force activation.

    If these steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to contact Microsoft support for further assistance with your activation problem.

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