Windows 10 error 0xc004c003 is a key activation error that occurs quite often for users who upgrade to Windows 10 from earlier versions. It seems to happen when there is an issue between the new upgraded install and the key used in activation. It is undoubtedly a frustrating error but one that can be overcome. Here’s how to fix Windows 10 error 0xc004c003.
There seems to be three main types of issue that cause you to see error 0xc004c003. An upgraded install that just won’t activate, an upgrade that uses a mismatched version of Windows 10 and a slow activation process. There are ways around all of them.
You will need a legitimate Windows OS key, Windows 10 upgrade media and a lot of patience!
Fix Windows 10 error 0xc004c003
It seems there isn’t one single fix for this error so we will cover the main three things that can address it.
If you have just upgraded to Windows 10 from a previously activated version of Windows, just be patient. The first time I upgraded to Windows 10, it took three days for Microsoft’s activation servers to get round to activating my copy.
1. Log into Windows with your Microsoft account and verify your identity.
2. Navigate to Settings, Update & Security, Activation.
3. Hit the Activate button once or twice an hour until it activates.
Or:
1. Perform a clean install using the same version of Windows 10 you are entitled to. If you’re upgrading from Windows 8 Home, make sure you’re upgrading to Windows 10 Home and the same for Pro.
2. DO NOT enter a code when prompted during installation. Skip and perform the steps above.
Or:
1. Re-install your previous version of Windows and make sure that activates.
2. Perform all Windows updates and upgrade via the upgrade prompt or upgrade media.
3. Again, don’t enter a code if you’re prompted. Wait until Windows 10 is installed. If the upgrade goes right, you shouldn’t need to enter a code.
Finally, if those three steps don’t work:
1. Navigate to Windows Start, All Apps.
2. Find Contact Support and open it.
3. Instigate a chat session with a support tech who should be able to help. They will likely need remote access to your computer to do it though.
More Windows 10 tips and tricks can be found here:
How to Perform a Repair Installation for Windows 10
How to stop wake timers in Windows 10
How to rebuild your icon cache in Windows 10
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