Windows & BSOD · low

How to fixWIN-LICENSE-EXPIRE

Your Windows license is about to expire

What this error means

WIN-LICENSE-EXPIRE shows up as a low-severity Windows operating system fault. Windows pops up with a message that activation will expire. It also occurs frequently with legal systems of activated organizations (KMS). The usual suspects are error after hardware change and illegal activator lost functionality. The steps below are ordered to resolve this efficiently.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Please enter a valid Retail/OEM activation key

Please enter a valid Retail/OEM activation key.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Link your local account with Microsoft account

Link your local account with Microsoft account.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Run the Activation Troubleshooter

Run the Activation Troubleshooter.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Loss of connection with the license server (KMS) of the company or school
  • Error after hardware change
  • Illegal activator lost functionality