[Guide] Resolve Unable to Reach Windows Activation Servers Error

Are you struggling with the frustrating "Unable to Reach Windows Activation Servers" error on your computer? If so, you're not alone. In this insightful article, we delve into the common causes behind this issue and provide you with practical troubleshooting tips to fix it.

By @Zelia Last Updated October 21, 2024

Sometimes, when you update Windows or perform other operations, you may get the "unable to reach Windows activation servers" Error.

You can keep reading if you are also facing this activation error. We explain why this problem occurs and help you out of this issue.

Common Causes of "Unable to Reach Windows Activation Servers"

Several factors may contribute to the can't reach our activation server:

  • Internet Connectivity Issues: The most basic yet crucial aspect, ensuring stable internet connectivity is fundamental for successful communication with activation servers.
  • Firewall or Security Software Interference: Overzealous firewall settings or security software may block the connection to Windows activation servers.
  • Server Outage or Maintenance: Periodic server maintenance or unexpected outages can disrupt the connection to activation servers.
  • Incorrect System Date and Time Settings: Inaccurate system date and time settings can lead to failed communication with activation servers.
  • Corrupted System Files Related to Activation: Damage to system files associated with activation can hinder the connection process.

How to fix "unable to reach Windows Activation servers"

When encountering the "Windows 10 Unable to Reach Activation Servers" error, troubleshooting the issue requires a systematic approach to pinpoint the underlying cause. Here’s a step-by-step guide to resolve this activation error:

Note: it is suggested to backup your Windows before you fix this problem. If some error occurs, you can restore your Windows at any time.

Method 1: Install the Creator’s Update

Step 1. Open the Run Window by pressing the Windows key + R key. Enter control update and click OK to access Windows Update.

Step 2. Click Check for updates. Allow the utility to scan your system and follow the prompts to restart your system.

Method 2: Use a Generic Product Key for Your Windows Version

Generic keys for Windows allow you to install and upgrade to a specific Windows 10 edition. 

Step 1. Open the Run Window by pressing the Windows + R keys. Enter "slui" and click OK to open the Windows Activation Client.

Step 2. Choose Change product key, then input the appropriate generic key corresponding to your Windows edition.

Windows 10 Home Edition: YTMG3 – N6DKC – DKB77 – 7M9GH – 8HVX7 Windows 10 Home Edition Single Language: BT79Q – G7N6G – PGBYW – 4YWX6 – 6F4BT Windows 10 Pro Edition: VK7JG – NPHTM – C97JM – 9MPGT – 3V66T Windows 10 Home N Edition: 4CPRK – NM3K3 – X6XXQ – RXX86 – WXCHW Windows 10 Pro N Edition: 2B87N – 8KFHP – DKV6R – Y2C8J – PKCKT

Step 3. Click Next and allow the activation process to complete, then proceed to restart your computer.

Method 3: Activate Windows via Chat Support

Step 1. Open the Run Window by pressing the Windows key + R key. Enter "slui 4" and click OK to access the Installation ID screen.

Step 2. Then, select your country or region and click Next.

Step 3. Minimize the Installation ID window when prompted to call the number. Search for get help in the Search box and launch the Get Help application.

Step 4. Type test and then choose No at each prompt until you reach the option – talk to a person.

Step 5. Navigate to Services & Apps > Windows > Setting up and choose Chat online with a Microsoft Answer Tech.

Step 6. Maximize the Installation ID window and copy the ID into the Contact Support window. The Microsoft Answer Tech will provide you with the Confirmation ID. Then you should return to the Installation ID window, click Enter confirmation ID.

Step 7. Choose Activate Windows and await the reactivation of the license.

Regular backup and protect Windows system

From time to time, you will encounter Windows errors like "Unable to reach Windows activation servers". Some of these errors can lead to serious system failure, data disaster, and so on. So it is necessary for users to backup the system and important data regularly. You can easily resume the system to normal and restore lost data using a backup.

To make things easy, you can rely on this popular and powerful Windows backup solution - AOMEI Cyber Backup. You can easily backup Windows system, partition, disk, files to local path, external hard drives, network share, NAS and other safe locations.

Efficient Data Protection: It ensures the efficient and secure backup of critical data on your Windows Server, shielding it from potential threats. Quick Recovery Options: In the face of data loss or system issues, it provides swift and reliable recovery options, minimizing disruptions and ensuring business continuity. User-Friendly Interface: Despite its advanced capabilities, it boasts a user-friendly interface, making it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise.

You can click the button below to harness the power of AOMEI Cyber Backup to protect your Windows Server.

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* Both free and paid version of AOMEI Cyber Backup support Windows Server 2016/2019/2022/11,10,8,7.

Steps to Secure Your Windows Server with AOMEI Cyber Backup

Step 1. Sign in AOMEI Cyber Backup, then access to Source Device >> Agents >> + Add Agent. Download and install AOMEI Cyber Backup agent.

Tip: AOMEI Cyber Backup supports centralized Windows backup. If you want to backup other Windows devices, download and install AOMEI Cyber Backup agent on more devices that need to be backed up.

Step 2. Add your Windows device in the AOMEI Cyber Backup web console under the Source Device section.

Step 3. Navigate to the Backup Task area, create a new task, and choose your preferred Backup Type – System Backup (VMware ESXi Backup/Hyper-V Backup/Microsoft SQL Backup/Disk Backup/Partition Backup).

Step 4. Configure the Task Name, Device, Target, and Schedule according to your preferences.

Step 5. Click Start Backup and select Add the schedule and start backup now, or Add the schedule only.

Step 6. In the event of data loss, initiate the recovery process by clicking on Backup Task, locating the task to restore, and selecting the appropriate restore option.

Conclusion

This post lists 3 methods when you facing the "Unable to reach Windows activation servers" in Windows. Hope the methods provided in this article can help you. You can install the creator's update, use a generic product key, or activate Windows via Chat support. 

In addition, AOMEI Cyber Backup is a reliable backup solution that ensures a resilient and secure Windows Server environment. You can easily backup your Windows to protect system and critical data.