Error 0xC004F050 — The product key is invalid

Error 0xC004F050: The product key is invalid

This error occurs in: Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server.

Cause

The entered product key is not recognized by the Microsoft licensing server. This may be a key for a different version of the system, incorrectly transcribed, or an OEM key attempted in a Retail installation.

Symptoms

• During activation, the message appears: "The product key is invalid"
• Error code: 0xC004F050
• English version: "The Software Protection Service reported that the product key is invalid"

Step-by-Step Solution

Check if the key is entered correctly (25 characters, format XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX). Ensure that the key matches the installed version of Windows. Use: slmgr.vbs /ipk <your-key>

Solution for Windows Server

1. Open PowerShell as administrator
2. Enter the key:

slmgr /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

1. Activate:

slmgr /ato

1. Check the status:

slmgr /xpr

Verification

After performing the steps, check if the activation was successful:

• Windows: Settings → System → Activation → should be "Windows is activated"
• Or: slmgr /xpr in the command line

Still not working?

If the above steps did not help:

1. Check the date and time — they must be correct (an incorrect date can block activation)
2. Temporarily disable antivirus and try again
3. Check the internet connection — online activation requires a connection to Microsoft servers
4. Contact us:
   • Email: [email protected]
   • Phone: 00 800 121 1654 (toll-free)
   • Help center: pomoc.kluczesoft.pl