How to Fix the Frustrating Windows 11 Deactivation After 24H2 Update? Step-by-Step Guide

Why Did Windows 11 Deactivate After the 24H2 Update? Proven Solutions for a Smooth Recovery

The Windows 11 24H2 update has caused unexpected deactivation issues for many users. After applying the update, some systems display a deactivated status, often due to the update overwriting the existing product key with a generic one. This can disrupt workflow and limit access to personalization features. The following step-by-step solutions address both digital and physical license scenarios, helping restore activation and system functionality.

Solution 1: Run a PowerShell Script to Restore Activation

If you have your original Windows 11 product key, use a PowerShell script to reinstall and activate your license. This approach is effective if the update replaced your key.

Step 1: Locate Your Product Key

For physical copies: Check the packaging or documentation.

For digital licenses: Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run:

wmic path SoftwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKey

For pre-activated systems or upgrades: Check under
Settings > Update & Security > Activation.

Step 2: Create the PowerShell Script

Open Notepad and paste the following code:

# Windows 11 product key
$Key = "PUT-KEY-HERE"

function Check-ActivationStatus {
$activationInfo = Get-WmiObject -Query "SELECT LicenseStatus FROM SoftwareLicensingProduct WHERE PartialProductKey IS NOT NULL AND LicenseFamily LIKE '%Windows%'"
return $activationInfo.LicenseStatus -contains 1
}

if (Check-ActivationStatus) {
Write-Host "Windows is already activated. No action needed." -ForegroundColor Green
} else {
Write-Host "Windows is not activated. Attempting to install and activate the key..." -ForegroundColor Yellow
try {
& cscript.exe "$env:SystemRoot\System32\slmgr.vbs" /ipk $Key
Start-Sleep -Seconds 5
& cscript.exe "$env:SystemRoot\System32\slmgr.vbs" /ato
Start-Sleep -Seconds 10
if (Check-ActivationStatus) {
Write-Host "Windows has been successfully activated." -ForegroundColor Green
} else {
Write-Host "Activation failed. Please check the product key or network connection." -ForegroundColor Red
}
} catch {
Write-Host "An error occurred: $_" -ForegroundColor Red
}
}

Replace “PUT-KEY-HERE” with your actual product key.

Step 3: Save and Run the Script

1. Save as W11KeyScript.ps1 (set file type to All Files).
2. Right-click the file and select “Run with PowerShell” as administrator.

Solution 2: Use the Activation Troubleshooter

If you cannot locate your key or prefer a guided approach, use the built-in Activation Troubleshooter.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to System > Activation.
3. If available, click Troubleshoot.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to resolve activation issues.

Solution 3: Manually Re-enter the Product Key

If your system uses a retail or OEM key (not digital activation), manually re-entering the key can resolve the issue.

1. Go to Settings > System > Activation.
2. Click Change under the “Change Product Key” section.
3. Enter your 25-character product key and click Next.

Solution 4: Reactivate Using Slmgr Script (For Digital Licenses)

For devices with digital licenses, use the Slmgr script to force reactivation.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Run the following command:

   slmgr.vbs /ato

3. Wait for the confirmation message indicating successful activation.

Solution 5: Roll Back to Previous Windows Version

If none of the above methods restore activation, revert to the previous Windows version.

1. Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
2. Select Go back to return to the earlier build (e.g., 23H2).
3. Follow prompts to complete the rollback. The process will restart your PC several times.

Note: The 24H2 update cannot be uninstalled from Programs & Features.

Restoring activation ensures full access to Windows features and maintains compliance. Following these steps can help you quickly resolve deactivation issues after the Windows 11 24H2 update, minimizing downtime and stress.