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Dealing with the error code 0xC004F050 while trying to activate your Windows?
If yes, you have stumbled upon the right webpage.
Windows activation errors are the worst errors to deal with for two reasons.
First, they restrict access to all the advanced features and functionality and show that annoying Activate Windows notification.
Second, such errors outright claim that the license key you purchased is invalid or cannot be used.
Thankfully, you dont need to worry anymore.
So, without any further ado, lets get started
What Is Error Code 0xC004F050?
This error commonly occurs with an warning pop-up stating that
The product key you entered didnt work.
Check the product key and take another crack, or enter a different one.
And because Windows license keys last indefinitely, this error can be fixed in most scenarios.
Every single time Microsoft releases a Windows version, it releases several client variants of the same.
In all these scenarios, you will ultimately face the Windows activation issue.
Besides that, an unstable internet connection could also cause this activation error.
So, these are the most common causes that trigger the Windows activation error code 0xC004F050.
Doing so will confirm that this error hasnt occurred due to any mistake in entering the product key.
Step 2:Select theSystemoption from the left sidebar and then select theActivationoption.
Step 3:Since your Windows isnt activated, you will seeNot activementioned in theActivation stateoption.
Here, choose theChangebutton associated with theChange product keyoption.
Here, enter the 25-digit activation key that came with the Windows.
Step 6:Windows will now ask you toActivate Windows.
select theActivatebutton to do that.
you could follow the below-shared workarounds to fix those causes.
Check Internet Connection
All the latest Windows OS requires an active internet connection for activation.
Hence you will most likely see this error if your internet connection isnt working properly.
Simply visit any website or watch YouTube videos to check the internet connection status on your PC.
If you do that and the website doesnt load, fix your internet connection before trying to activate Windows.
Step 2:punch theNetwork & Internetfrom the left pane.
Step 3:At the top of your screen, you will see the online grid connection status.
If the internet connection isnt the cause, you’re free to follow the next workaround.
And the Windows Activation Troubleshooter utility could help us with that.
Step 2:tap on theActivationoption listed in theSystemtab.
Step 3:Now, choose theActivation stateoption.
Since your Windows isnt activated, you will see theNot activestatus.
Step 5: Windows Activation Troubleshooterwill now start identifying the issues.
In both scenarios, power cycle your PC.
And then, take a stab at activate your Windows OS.
Using these utilities together could fix the majority of the file corruption-related issues.
Step 3:First, we will use theDISMutility because it fixes Windows image-related issues, including theSFCutility.
Step 4:Once completed, key in thesfc /scannowcommand and hitEnter.
Disclaimer Both DISM and SFC thoroughly scan and fix system images and files for corruption and alterations.
And it could take a while to complete the process.
If you are one of them, follow this solution.
Otherwise, skip to the next workaround.
In earlier Windows editions, it used to be a hectic process as it involved contacting Microsoft customer support.
Step 2:Select theSystemtab from the left pane and then punch theActivationoption.
Step 3:select theActivation stateoption.
Since your Windows isnt activated, it will have theNot activestatus.
Step 4:You will see the oops message stating theError code: 0xC004F050along with aTroubleshootbutton.
Step 5:Wait for it to complete the process.
Step 6:It will ask you to sign in to yourMicrosoft account.
Step 7:Now, select your machine from the list and then press theActivatebutton.
Note that this workaround would only work if you have a Windows Retail license, not the OEM one.
Instead, there is some other issue that needs to be fixed.
This automated system is designed to help people activate their Windows copy over the phone.
And even Microsoft recommends using it if you cant activate your Windows through any other method.
Step 2:Typeslui 4in the dialog box and hit theEnterkey.
Step 3:It will launch theActivate Windowsdialog box.
hit theActivate by phoneoption.
Step 4:Now select your nearest location from the drop-down list and then choose theNextbutton.
Step 5:You will be provided with the assistant number.
Call on the given number, and an automated system will assist you through the activation process.
you’re free to tell them about the issue you are dealing with.
Note that activating Windows with the help of an automated phone system is a lengthy process.
Plus, you must be attentive on call and follow the instructions carefully.
Another thing is that this Activate by phone option isnt available for everyone.
So, if this option doesnt appear for you, dont panic.
Just follow the next workaround to fix the error code 0xC004F050.
And thats why this theory makes a little sense.
That said, there is no official confirmation from Microsoft about it.
But since this method works for many, why not try it?
Step 2:InstallWindows 10on your machine.
Step 3:ActivateWindows 10using the license key you have.
Step 4:Now, upgrade toWindows 11usingWindows 11 Installation Assistant.
Upgrading using the installation assistant would automatically activate your Windows and eliminate the error 0xC004F050.
Since the cause of this error isnt easy to ascertain, troubleshooting it becomes challenging.
Thankfully, it’s possible for you to fix this error by following the workarounds mentioned in this article.
Next, check outhow to repair Windows images using the DISM command.
