Recent CPU upgrade and BIOS update, now windows can't be activated

philipp koerner 0 Reputation points
2026-09-10T11:36:56.4766667+00:00

Hi, I recently changed my CPU and updated my bios, now windows says its not activated anymore. I tried reentering my activation key, but it doesn't work either, says error "0x80041023". When I go to troubleshoot, it can't troubleshoot my PC for some reason.

Thanks in advance for your help!

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Windows for home | Windows 10 | Licensing and activation

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  1. EmilyS726 264.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-10T16:34:38.86+00:00

    Thanks for the information you've prodivded so far.

    Please type cmd in the search on the taskbar. Don't press enter key yet. Instead, choose "run as administrator" to launch Command Prompt.

    Run these commands one at at time

    slmgr /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

    (replace the Xs with the actual key)

     

    slmgr /ato

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  2. AI answer

    2026-09-10T11:37:16.2466667+00:00

    A CPU change and BIOS update can cause Windows to see the device as changed hardware, which can break activation because the digital license is tied to the device hardware.

    Try these steps:

    1. Verify the Microsoft account used for the digital license.
      • The screenshot indicates Windows cannot find a device linked to the current Microsoft account.
      • Sign in with the same Microsoft account that was linked to Windows activation on this PC before the hardware change.
    2. Run Activation Troubleshooter again.
      • In Windows 10, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Troubleshoot.
      • The troubleshooter is available only when Windows is not activated.
      • It requires an internet connection.
      • If the hardware-change option appears, use the path to reactivate after a hardware change.
    3. If a valid 25-character product key exists, enter it manually.
      • Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Change product key.
      • Enter the same product key previously used on this PC, if available.
    4. If the motherboard was replaced, a new license may be required.
      • A significant hardware change such as motherboard replacement can prevent Windows from finding a matching license.
      • If Windows was preinstalled on the PC and the motherboard was changed, a new license is required.
    5. Check that the installed Windows edition matches the license.
      • In Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation, confirm whether the installed edition is the same edition the license is for, such as Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro.
      • If the edition does not match the license, Windows will not activate.
    6. If Troubleshooter still cannot find the linked device, contact Microsoft customer support.
      • The documented next step when the troubleshooter does not resolve activation after a significant hardware change is to contact customer support.

    References:

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