If you’re facing a Windows activation error message on your system, it’s likely due to having a non-genuine version of Windows 10 installed. This guide will walk you through the steps to activate Windows 10 using Command Prompt, repairing corrupt system files and downloading any missing required files in the process.
Steps to Activate Windows 10 Using Command Prompt
1. Open Settings and Go to Update & Security
Start by opening the Settings app. Navigate to “Update & Security,” then click on “Activation” in the left pane. This section will show you the current activation status of your Windows 10 system.
2. Run Command Prompt as Administrator
To run Command Prompt with administrative privileges, search for “CMD” in the Windows search bar. Right-click on the Command Prompt result and select “Run as administrator.” This step is crucial for the commands to execute properly.
3. Scan and Repair Corrupt Files
In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
This command initiates the System File Checker (SFC) scan, which will search for and repair corrupt system files. This process may take some time, typically around 6-7 minutes, but it can vary based on your system’s performance.
4. Restore Health with DISM
Once the SFC scan is complete, enter the following command and press Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
The Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) command will scan the system again and download any missing files. Ensure your internet connection is active during this process. This scan usually takes about 1 minute to complete.
5. Troubleshoot Windows Update
After completing the DISM scan, close the Command Prompt window and return to the “Update & Security” section in Settings. Click on “Troubleshoot,” then “Additional troubleshooters.” Select “Windows Update” and click on “Run the troubleshooter.” This tool will identify and fix any issues with Windows Update that may be causing activation problems.
6. Restart Your System
Once the troubleshooting process is complete, restart your system. After the reboot, the Windows activation error message should be resolved, and your Windows 10 should be activated successfully.
Additional Tips
- Time Estimates: The SFC scan typically takes about 6-7 minutes, while the DISM scan takes approximately 1 minute. However, the total time to complete the entire process can vary depending on your system’s performance and internet speed.
- Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection when running the DISM command, as it may need to download necessary files from the internet.
Step-by-step video tuitorial on How to Activate Windows 10 with Command Prompt
By following these steps, you can effectively activate Windows 10 using Command Prompt, addressing any issues related to corrupt or missing system files. This method provides a reliable solution for resolving activation errors without the need for additional software or reinstalling Windows.