Microsoft closes the free upgrade channel for Win11, and some users encounter Windows activation problems.

CTOnews.com About a month ago Microsoft blocked a long-standing vulnerability that allowed users to activate Windows 10 and 11 using keys from older Windows 7, 8 and 8.1. In addition, Microsoft has closed the free upgrade path, preventing users of previous versions of Windows 10 from upgrading to the new system without paying Microsoft. But it now appears that the change has caused problems for systems that shouldn't have been affected.

CTOnews.com has noted multiple reports that some users lost activation after replacing computer parts or performing BIOS updates. Not only that, but the digital license associated with their Microsoft account could no longer activate the operating system, forcing them to buy another key or use some other activation method. Microsoft support has confirmed that replacing hardware should not invalidate key activation.

Bill Babonas, chief product manager for Windows, confirmed to The Verge that the company is aware of the problem and is working on possible solutions: "Microsoft has noticed these user reports and is investigating them. Users experiencing technical difficulties should contact customer service. "

Users can check Windows activation status by going to Settings> System> Activation> Activation Status, and users can continue to use Windows 10 or 11 for a while without activation until Microsoft fixes the issue.