Forum Discussion
Kent0240
Nov 03, 2025Copper Contributor
Windows 11 Pro activation fails indicting hardware changed
Receive unable to activate windows - looks like hardware on this device has changed My old laptop was dying. Proactively purchased a win 11 pro license through my company benefits site since I knew ...
Wayneyan
Nov 04, 2025Iron Contributor
It sounds like you're experiencing activation issues with Windows 11 Pro after upgrading your new ASUS laptop, even though no hardware changes have been made since purchase. The activation error indicates that Windows thinks the hardware has changed, and your old device no longer appears under your Microsoft account devices, which complicates re-activation and licensing management. You’ve already tried using a generic key and the suggested license fix, but the problem persists, leaving you with an unactivated Windows 11 Pro and concerns about licensing for both your new and old devices.