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iamjww's avatar
iamjww
Copper Contributor
Aug 15, 2023

Activation error.

Hi, All of a sudden around March time I started getting activation prompts. The troubleshooter tells me I have a Home license running a Windows 11 Pro build however I've no clue when that was supposed to be installed.  Windows 11 Home came with the laptop. 

When trying to install Windows 11 Home each time I get to the "ready to install" screen as you'll see, its says Windows 22 Pro. Now I've done this myself as well as getting help from Microsfoft who directed me to it. I also wanted to go to the Beta channel as opposed to Dev.  So I don't mind a clean install it just won't work.



    • iamjww's avatar
      iamjww
      Copper Contributor
      Aug 16, 2023

      KapilArya Does this include being enrolled into Winders Insider Program. I've just done a clean install and managed to windows 11 Pro activated however I'm still on Dec on the insider programme and never wanted to go onto int the first place. Windows automatically moved me to that when the introduction of Canary cake. 

    • alicealla11265's avatar
      alicealla11265
      Copper Contributor
      Aug 18, 2023

      KapilArya  

      Hey there,

      Alica here, chiming in on this tricky situation. 🙋‍:male_sign:

      Your issue sounds so similar to something a friend of mine faced. The mix-ups between the Home and Pro versions can be a bit perplexing, especially when you're certain about the version that came with your device.

       

      If you're seeing Windows 22 Pro (assuming the "22" is a typo for "11") during your reinstall attempts, it’s possible that there might be residual files or configurations causing the mishap.

      But hey, I found this article by Kapil Arya, a trusted Microsoft MVP, that guides you through the process of downgrading from Windows 11 Pro to Home without losing your data:

      Try https://www.kapilarya.com/downgrade-windows-11-pro-to-home

       

      This might be the solution you're looking for! Give it a shot and let us know if it sorts things out. Just a heads up: always ensure you have a backup of your data before making significant changes, even if the method promises no data loss.

      And remember, if things still seem off, we've got a whole community here to help and brainstorm. Keep us posted on your progress!

      Stay tech-savvy and take care!
      Warm regards,
      Alica.

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