This article addresses Windows 10 activation errors that pop up after an upgrade.  You may see an error saying that Windows 10 could not be activated or some similar activation error message.  Let’s have a look at how you can fix these errors.

If you have upgraded to Windows 10 from Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 SP1 and are facing activation problems, follow the troubleshooting steps set out below:

1. Go to the Start Menu
2. Select Settings > Update & Security > Activation
3. If you have a valid Windows key, your Windows 10 will activate. If you don’t have valid license, you need to buy Windows 10 from the store

Error 0x80072F8F- ‘A security error occurred’

The above error generally means the time and date set on your PC are incorrect.  In some cases, this error is also displayed when there is a problem with the Internet connection.  During the activation process, Windows tries to connect to an online activation service but might be unable to connect due to a problem with the Internet connection. To resolve the activation issue, follow the steps set out below:

To set the correct date and time:

1. Go to the Start Menu > Settings >Time & Language > Date & time
2. Enter the correct date and time
3. Go to the Start Menu again
4. Select Settings > Update & Security > Activation

To check your internet connection:

1. Go to Desktop
2. Enter network troubleshooter in the Search Box on the Taskbar
3. Select Identify and repair network problems
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to resolve any network issues
5. If the network troubleshooter does not find any network issue, restart the PC
6. Check if the Internet connection is working
7. If yes , go to the Start Menu
8. Select Settings > Update & Security > Activation

Error 0x80004005- ‘Unspecified error’

If you get this activation error, you need to activate Windows 10 manually by following the steps set out below:

1. Go to the Start Menu
2. Select Settings > Update & Security > Activation
3. Select Activate Windows

If Windows is not activated, restart the PC and perform the steps again.

Error 0x8007232B- ‘DNS name does not exist’

This error is generated when you are trying to activate Windows 10 but the PC is not connected to the network. If you are connected to the network and still getting this error, change the network settings and ensure your PC is able to connect to the Internet.  Once the PC is connected to the network, perform the activation steps below:

1. Go to the Start Menu
2. Select Settings > Update & Security > Activation
3. Select Change Product Key
4. Enter the 25 character product key

If you have other Windows 10 activation problems, please post below and we will try to help.

How to fix Windows 10 upgrade problems?