After UEFI update Windows gives error code 0x803FABC3 when trying to activate

KEVIN-8612 0 Reputation points
2026-09-21T08:52:22.8766667+00:00

Originally had 7, free upgrade to 10, free upgrade to 11 Pro almost two years ago. Did a complete, clean install of windows last summer. No issues reactivating windows. Updated UEFI on my Taichi motherboard recently, now windows won't activate. Here's the screenshot from the cmd: slmgr /dlv

slmgr slash dlv screenshot

When I log into my Microsoft account, I can see the system for which I have the license. (Taichi motherboard) However, when I run through the troubleshooter in activation, it shows nothing attached to my account.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Licensing and activation
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  1. DaveM121 936.1K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-21T09:28:48.1466667+00:00

    A BIOS update may cause the Hardware ID. of the processor or motherboard to change, and that caused the activation servers to think you have changed your PC, then because Microsoft changed the licensing rules a while ago, after that change, it is no longer possible to activate Windows 10 or 11 with a previous Windows 7 or 8 licence on new hardware, and even though you have not changed your hardware, that causes the problem.

    If the Troubleshoot method is not working to get your Windows activated, that is the only option provided to reactivate Windows, if you have your original product key, try entering that to activate Windows, if that is not successful, this forum is just a user to user forum, you will need to contact Microsoft Support directly to ask them if it is possible to reactivate your Windows licence for you.

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