Fix the Windows activation Error 0x80041023

Error: The product key you entered didn’t work. Check the product key and try again, or enter a different one. (0x80041023)

The error code 0x80041023 can show up when you activate your installation of Windows. Why does this code show? How to solve this problem? 

Solution 1: Active the Operating System With the SLMGR Command

If there is a license in the BIOS already and you don’t delete it, the error code 0x80041023 may occur when you enter a new license. In this case, you can use SLMGR commands to activate Windows with the new license.

Software License Manager (SLMGR) is a license management tool added after Vista. It is the main component to manage system activation’s keys and certificates. Here is the guide:

1. Press Windows and R keys to open the Run.
2. Type “cmd” on the Open: box and click the OK.
3. Input “slmgr /ipk <Windows Key>” and press Enter In the command replace the <Windows Key> with your own license key.
4. Then input “slmgr /ato” and press Enter key again.
5. Reboot your computer and the new product key should work.

Solution 2 – Use Retail Product Key

If the activation error 0x80041023 occurs in the process of updating the Windows edition, you need to make sure the product key used for the update is not the OEM product key. Because the OEM product key can only be used for new machines having no licenses written.

For example, if your Windows edition is Home but you want to upgrade it to Pro or another higher edition, you need a new product key to activate your computer again. In this situation, if your new product key is an OEM product key, you may meet the 0x80041023 error.

If you want to fix this error, the only way is to buy a Retail product key from Windows Store to upgrade the computer.

Purchase the Upgrade key here

Activation Requirements for Windows: Understanding When and How

Typically, when you purchase a PC from renowned vendors such as HP, Dell, or Lenovo, there’s no separate need to activate Windows. This is because these PC vendors embed the Windows license directly into the computer’s BIOS.

However, for those who assemble their PCs, a separate Windows license needs to be acquired from the Windows Store. This license is then utilized to activate Windows on the custom-built PC.

Once the activation process is complete, there’s usually no need to repeat it, even if you decide to reinstall Windows or upgrade to a newer version (e.g., from Windows 10 to Windows 11) during any applicable free upgrade period.

It’s worth noting that if you wish to switch Windows editions (e.g., from Home to Pro), a new upgrade (retail) license must be purchased. This new license will then be used to activate Windows afresh. Understanding these activation requirements ensures a smooth and compliant experience with your Windows operating system