Windows 8.1 upgrade not accepting my Windows 8 Product Key

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andycoops

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Jul 18, 2012
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My Windows 8 finally updated to 8.1 on its own without me trying anything. However now it's updated my old Windows 8 product key no longer works. Why is this, can I fix it?
 
Solution
ToineF
So if i understand well, the windows 8.1 is not being activated because you used a dummy key?

If that is correct, try to enter the good key from your windows 8. The windows 8 should work (I've done that). if it works and it's still not being activated you will need to do the phone activation.

If the win8 key doesn't work, you will need to call microsoft support or reinstall the whole thing.
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andycoops

Honorable
Jul 18, 2012
27
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10,530
Windows 8 automatically upgraded to 8.1, without my permission, 8.1 is a free upgrade for 8 users. However now I no longer have a valid product key which really sucks since why have a free upgrade if they aren't going to give me a new product key? I have read that your Windows 8 product key should work after the product is installed. Obviously not... I hate Microsoft right now
 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Mar 16, 2013
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You can retrieve the new 8.1 key with Belarc Advisor.
But no, you can't use that old Win 8 key elsewhere.
 
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andycoops

Honorable
Jul 18, 2012
27
0
10,530
Belarc Advisor is useless it says Microsoft - Windows 8.1 Professional (x64) 00260-00000-00001-AA874 (Key: none activated).

The how to link doesn't solve my issue, Windows 8.1 is installed (and I used a dummy key when it forced me to upgrade) BUT Now Windows 8.1 is insistent that I need to input a new product key, despite using a product key I know for sure works with Windows 8 - which that link you sent me says SHOULD work when 8.1 is installed.
 
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ToineF

ToineF

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Apr 28, 2014
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So if i understand well, the windows 8.1 is not being activated because you used a dummy key?

If that is correct, try to enter the good key from your windows 8. The windows 8 should work (I've done that). if it works and it's still not being activated you will need to do the phone activation.

If the win8 key doesn't work, you will need to call microsoft support or reinstall the whole thing.
 
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