Windows 11 license transfer problem on a Virtual Machine

Hi everyone,

I'm stuck with a Windows 11 Pro activation issue after a VM crash and could use some advice.

Context: > Years ago, I got a Windows 10 Pro digital license through the Windows Insider Program and used it on bare metal. Fast forward to about two years ago, I successfully migrated that license over to a Windows 11 Pro VM inside a virtual machine.

What went wrong: > The virtual machine glitched out, forcing me to completely wipe that VM and spin up a brand new one.

Now, when I try to activate the new VM using the Activation Troubleshooter and selecting “I changed hardware on this device recently”, it won't let me transfer the license. The system says there are no usable licenses linked to my Microsoft Account for this machine.

I assume Microsoft's activation servers are treating the new VM as an entirely different motherboard/hardware configuration, while the old "hardware" profile is still holding onto the license. Since the old VM is deleted, I can't log into it to unbind it.

Has anyone dealt with this specific Insider license migration issue on VMs? Is there any way to clear the old VM instance from my MSA (Microsoft Account) devices to free up the license, or am I forced to contact MS support?

Thanks!