How to activate windows when I didn't change any parts, but I did a clean reinstall of windows.

To activate Windows after performing a clean reinstall without changing any hardware, you can use the local reactivation procedure if you had previously activated Windows on the same hardware. This process relies on data created during the initial activation, which is stored in the Volume Activation Management Tool (VAMT) database. Here are the steps you can follow:

1. Reinstall Windows: Ensure that you have reinstalled the same edition of Windows that was previously activated.
2. Use VAMT: If you have access to VAMT, you can reactivate Windows using the stored Confirmation ID (CID) from the previous activation.
   • Open VAMT.
   • Select the computer you want to reactivate.
   • Choose Activate, then select Apply Confirmation ID.
   • Follow the prompts to complete the reactivation.

If you do not have access to VAMT or if the hardware has changed significantly, you may need to enter your product key manually during the activation process. Make sure that the product key matches the edition of Windows you installed.

If you encounter any issues with activation, you may need to contact Microsoft support for assistance.

References:

• Work with product keys and activation
• Run local reactivation

Thanks for sharing the details, David! Try to force Windows to Refresh Activation Files (NO product key needed)

Open Command Prompt as Administrator

• Press Start → type "cmd" → right-click → Run as administrator

Run the following commands one by one:

Step A — Remove the current activation data

• slmgr.vbs /upk

This removes any broken/unusable key Windows is currently trying to use.

Step B — Clear old activation information

• slmgr.vbs /cpky

Clears stored key from registry.

Step C — Force activation against Microsoft servers

• slmgr.vbs /ato

Restart your PC.

If your digital license is tied to this device, Windows should now activate automatically.

See if this helps. If you need further assistance just let me know.

Best regards,

Kimberly