Windows 11 license activation - Error code: 0xC004C008, after replacing components in the computer

Cptn 20 Reputation points
2025-08-10T09:59:26.0066667+00:00

Hi,

Recently I had to change the hardware in my desktop PC – motherboard and CPU. Now I’m having a problem with Windows activation.

I get this message:

We can't activate Windows on this device because the product key was already used on another device. If you think it wasn't used on another device, select Troubleshoot below. Error code: 0xC004C008

When I click Troubleshoot and select I changed hardware on this device recently, I get this:

Unable to activate Windows We can’t find any devices linked to your Microsoft account that can be used for reactivating the device you’re using right now. Make sure you’re signed in with the same Microsoft account you linked to the Windows 10 digital license on this device or try again later. See other devices linked to your Microsoft account

When I click See other devices linked to your Microsoft account, the list is empty and I see:

We can’t reactivate Windows from these devices.

When I try Activate by phone, in the Select your country or region section Poland is missing. It looks like a bug – after letter P there are only 2 countries listed, and many others (e.g., starting with T and later) are missing. I’m attaching a screenshot of this issue.

ss2

I also ran in Command Prompt: slmgr -dli

I’m attaching a screenshot with the result.

ss1

Please help me solve this problem.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Licensing and activation
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Accepted answer
  1. DaveM121 758K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-08-10T10:31:51+00:00

    1

    Where did you get your Windows licence was that pre-installed on the PC or did you purchase a full retail Windows licence from Microsoft or from a 3rd party retailer?

    Or is your Windows licence based on a previous Windows 7 or 8 licence?

    2

    Download the free ShowKeyPlus app from the Microsoft Store.

    Please provide a screenshot of that app window and please hide your product key in the screenshot.


1 additional answer

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  1. Sftkey 5 Reputation points
    2025-08-12T10:39:47.79+00:00

    Looks like your Windows 11 license key isn’t linked to your Microsoft account and is still tied to your old hardware. Ask the seller for a replacement, it’s the quickest way to avoid headaches and wasted time.

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