Recently, several users reported that activation error 0xc004f200 appears on their screens when trying to activate Windows, causing the operating system to be considered non-genuine. The strange thing is that this error appears even if users are using a valid activation key.

In this guide, we will explain in detail the appropriate steps to resolve the error.

What causes activation error code 0xc004f200?

Serious activation problem: It turns out that in most cases, a license mismatch may be responsible for this particular error code.

The recent installation of a faulty update: If you recently installed a cumulative update containing security patch KB4480970, it is possible that one of the patches caused an “unreal error”.

Damaged system file: In some cases, this error may be due to a corrupted system file that affects the operating system’s ability to verify the integrity of the license key.

License key mismatch: If none of the fixes you can do yourself are effective in your case, you should contact a Microsoft support representative and ask them about the status of your license key.

How can I fix activation error code 0xc004f200?

Perform Windows activation troubleshooting

1. Press Win + I.
2. Press Update and security, then select Activation.
3. Go to the right pane, then click Troubleshoot.
4. If a pop-up window appears asking you to allow access to User Account Control, click Yes.
5. Wait a few minutes until the problems (if any) are automatically detected and fixed.
6. Then restart your computer.

Changing the product key

1. Open Windows Settings (Win + I).
2. Follow the steps below – Update and Security > Activation.
3. Switch to the right pane and click Change Product Key.
4. Enter your real product key, consisting of 25 digits. Be sure to check for typos in the number.
5. Click Next to have the validity of your entered code verified by Microsoft servers.
6. The company verifies the authenticity of the number entered and if it passes the necessary checks, your device will be activated.

Remove the current update

1. Open Windows Settings (Win + I).
2. Click Update and security, then select Windows Update.
3. Switch to the right pane, find and click View update history.
4. On the next screen, click Uninstall Updates.
5. You will be redirected to the Control Panel.
6. Locate the recently installed updates on your computer and right-click on them.
7. Select Uninstall from the context menu.

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