Activation error 0x803F7001: causes and fixes
Windows found no valid licence for this PC. It often appears after a hardware change or clean install.
When it appears
- After replacing the motherboard.
- After installing a different edition from the one licensed.
- On a new installation with no key.
How to fix it, step by step
- Open the Activation page and run Troubleshoot.
- Choose “I changed hardware” if that applies and sign in.
- If you have a key, use Change product key.
- Check the result on the same page.
Home installed instead of Pro
Laptops with a firmware Home key often install Home. Enter your Pro key to switch, or see how to upgrade to Pro.
Can I keep using Windows with this error?
Yes, with limits. See [what happens if you do not activate Windows](what-happens-if-you-dont-activate-windows/).