How to Fix Windows Activation Error Code 0xc004f015

The error code 0xc004f015 typically occurs during Windows activation in environments utilizing Key Management Service (KMS) for volume licensing. This error usually indicates problems such as incorrectly configured KMS hosts, using a product key that doesn’t match the software version, or issues within the activation process itself.

Select Try again. If this does not work, contact Microsoft Support for assistance. Error code 0xc004f015

Fortunately, it can generally be resolved by following a series of straightforward steps.

Prerequisite: Verify the Product Key

Start by making sure that the product key you are using is correct and compatible with your Windows version.

An incorrect key or unsupported edition is one of the most common reasons for this error.
  1. Open the Start menu and type CMD. Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as Administrator”.
  2. Enter the command to view details about the license and key in use.
    slmgr.vbs /dlv

Ensure that the Windows edition and product key displayed here match the details of your purchased key, license type, and partial product key.

If the edition or product key is incorrect or mismatched from your paid version, in this case you can proceed to the next step to fix this issue.

1. Install the Latest Windows Updates

Outdated software can cause compatibility issues with activation services. Ensuring that your Windows system is up to date can resolve these errors.

Updates often include fixes for bugs or compatibility issues that may interfere with the activation process, ensuring your system can communicate with Microsoft’s activation servers effectively.
  1. Open the Start menu and go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates to download and install the latest updates.
  3. If no updates appear, manually download the latest cumulative update for your Windows version or Windows Server version from the Microsoft Update Catalog.
  4. Restart your computer or server after updates are installed to ensure the changes take effect.

After updating, try to activate Windows again to see if the issue is resolved.

2. Run System File Checker and Activation Troubleshooter

If the above steps do not resolve the issue, use built-in tools to diagnose and repair system integrity and activation-related issues.

Run System File Checker (SFC):

  1. Open the Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Run the following command:
    sfc /scannow

  3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any prompts to repair corrupted system files.

Use the Activation Troubleshooter:

  1. Open Settings > Update and Security > Activation.
  2. If you see an error, click Troubleshoot to launch the Activation troubleshooter.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to resolve activation issues.

The System File Checker repairs corrupted files that may affect activation, and the Activation troubleshooter can resolve common errors related to licensing and configuration.

3. Manually Re-register the Product Key

If the issue persists, re-registering the product key manually can help. Re-registering the key ensures that any corrupt or incorrect licensing data is cleared and replaced with the correct information.

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Uninstall the current key:
    slmgr.vbs /upk
  3. Clear any residual activation data:
    slmgr.vbs /cpky
  4. Install the correct product key:
    slmgr.vbs /ipk <Your-Product-Key>
  5. Activate the key:
    slmgr.vbs /ato
  6. Restart the system to apply changes.

That’s it! By following these steps, your issue with error code 0xc004f015 should be resolved. If you’re still facing problems, consider visiting appuals.com for more guidance. Good luck!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hamza Mohammad Anwar


Hamza Mohammad Anwar is an intermediate JavaScript web developer with a focus on developing high-performance applications using MERN technologies. His skill set includes expertise in ReactJS, MongoDB, Express NodeJS, and other related technologies. Hamza is also a Google IT Certified professional, which highlights his competence in IT support. As an avid problem-solver, he recreates errors on his computer to troubleshoot and find solutions to various technical issues.