Windows not activated on new Acer laptop, no solution from Acer or E commerce platform

omegaarmeggedon

Hi,

I have purchased a new acer laptop with Windows 11 pro installed in it, but it says i still need to activate my windows, i have tried troubleshooting, calling acer support several times but no outcome received. I have never faced this issue in other brands like HP or DELL. I wanted to return this acer laptop but the e-comm platform says this item is not eligible for return.

Puraw

https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/726935/windows-not-activated-on-new-acer-device

Hi omegaarmeggedon,

You're not alone in facing activation issues on newly purchased Acer systems — and it’s definitely frustrating when it feels like support isn’t in sync.

If this device came with Windows 11 Pro preinstalled, it should activate automatically once connected to the internet. Since it hasn’t, here are a few steps that helped another user recently:

🔍 Step-by-step diagnostics

1. slmgr.vbs /dlvThis will show activation status — Retail, OEM_DM, or Volume. If it shows a valid channel but not activated, the license may be mislinked.
2. Go to Settings > System > Activation Look for any error codes or links to troubleshoot. If it says “No product key found,” it’s worth escalating to Acer.
3. Make sure you’re signed in with your Microsoft Account Some digital licenses are auto-linked and activate only after account sign-in and a reboot.
4. slmgr.vbs /rearmThen reboot and check activation again.
5. wmic path SoftwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKeyIf no key appears, your unit may not have a valid OEM license — which leads to the next concern...

🚨 Possible root cause

There’s growing concern that some shops install Windows 11 Pro using trial or volume keys without providing legitimate activation — even advertising features like Office Home & Student 2021 without real product keys. This upsells the system, but leaves you with licensing issues down the line.

✅ Best next steps

• Confirm whether the OEM key is embedded (step 5 above)
• If not, Acer support may need to escalate internally for reimaging or proper licensing
• Check your invoice — if activation is part of the sales pitch (e.g. “Windows Pro + Office”), they should be responsible for resolving the licensing.

Gtip

Well you should check and try the following it might help you in fixing the issue:

Check Activation Status
Ensure You're Connected to the Internet
Sign In With Microsoft Account (if applicable)
Check Product Key in Command Prompt

Axxo

If your new Acer laptop's Windows activation is not working, it's likely because it needs to be activated online. First, ensure the laptop is connected to the internet. Then, navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Activation and click the "Activate" button. If it still doesn't activate, you may need to troubleshoot or enter a product key if prompted.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Check Internet Connection:
Ensure your Acer laptop is connected to a stable internet connection, either Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
2. Access Activation Settings:
Click the Start button, then select Settings.
Go to Update & Security, then select Activation.
3. Activate Windows:
If Windows is not activated, there should be an "Activate" button. Click it.
If prompted, enter your product key. This key is usually found on a sticker on the laptop or in the original packaging.
If you don't have a product key, you may need to purchase one from the Microsoft Store.
4. Troubleshoot Activation:
If activation fails, click "Troubleshoot" within the Activation settings.
Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the troubleshooter.
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