If you see "This copy of Windows is not genuine," try these steps: 1. Use Windows Activation Troubleshooter. 2. Reinstall the correct product key. 3. Run slmgr.vbs /rearm in Command Prompt (Admin). 4. Remove pirated software and run sfc /scannow. 5. Link your Microsoft account to activate with a digital license.

If you're seeing the message "This copy of Windows is not genuine," your system may have failed Microsoft's software licensing validation. Here are several methods to resolve this issue:

The operating environment of this tutorial: Dell XPS 13, Windows 11

1. Reactivate Windows Using Built-in Activation Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to automatically detect and fix common activation issues. This method works in cases where the license was previously valid but became deactivated due to a system change or glitch.

• Open Settings by pressing Win I.
• Navigate to System > Activation on the left sidebar.
• Click on Troubleshoot under the activation section.
• If prompted, select I changed hardware on this device recently or This is a clean installation, then follow the prompts to sign in with your Microsoft account linked to a valid license.
• Allow the system to connect to Microsoft’s servers and reactivate Windows.

2. Reinstall the Correct Product Key

Sometimes, the installed product key is invalid or associated with a different edition. Re-entering the correct key can restore genuine status.

• Press Win R, type slui.exe 4, and press Enter.
• Select your country and preferred contact method, then click Next.
• Enter the 25-character product key that matches your licensed version of Windows.
• Complete the phone or online verification process if required.

3. Use Command Prompt to Renew License Authentication

This method forces Windows to recheck its licensing status using elevated command-line tools. It's useful when activation fails silently in the background.

• Right-click the Start button and choose Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
• Type the following command and press Enter: slmgr.vbs /rearm.
• Wait for confirmation that the operation completed successfully.
• Restart your computer. The activation status should refresh upon reboot.

4. Check for Unauthorized Modifications or Pirated Software

Third-party tools or modified system files can trigger anti-piracy detection. Removing such software may restore genuine status.

• Run a full system scan using Windows Security or a trusted antivirus program.
• Check for known loader programs like KMS Auto, Microsoft Toolkit, or patched termsrv.dll files.
• Delete any unauthorized activation utilities found in startup or system directories.
• Use the command sfc /scannow in an elevated Command Prompt to repair protected system files.

5. Link Your Device to a Digital License via Microsoft Account

If your device was previously activated with a digital license tied to a Microsoft account, signing in again can restore authenticity.

• Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info.
• Ensure you are signed in with the Microsoft account used during initial activation.
• Navigate to Settings > System > Activation.
• If the option appears, click Activate using a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.

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