Windows Activation Error

0xC004C020: MAK activation limit exceeded

0xC004C020 means the Multiple Activation Key (MAK) you entered has used up the number of activations Microsoft assigned to it. The key is technically valid but cannot activate one more device. The fix is a replacement key from your seller or a phone activation attempt; reinstalling Windows does not reset the counter.

Most common causes

• The MAK key has already been used on the allowed number of devices
• The same key was re-entered after repeated reinstalls, consuming the counter
• The key was shared with several people
• A hardware change was counted as a new activation

Step-by-step fix

1. Confirm the code under Settings → System → Activation; press Windows + R → "slmgr /dlv" to view the license status.
2. Press Windows + R → "slui 4" to open phone activation; some MAK keys receive an extra activation through the phone line.
3. If you are re-activating the same PC, use Settings → Activation → "Troubleshoot" → "I changed hardware on this device recently" (a linked Microsoft account is required).
4. If the error persists, send the code to the seller you bought the key from — invoiced sellers replace a key whose counter is exhausted.
5. Enter the replacement key under Settings → Activation → "Change product key".

Frequently Asked Questions

Other activation errors

• 0xC004C003Product key blocked
• 0xC004C008Key usage limit exceeded
• 0xC004F050Invalid product key (edition mismatch)
• 0xC004F074KMS server could not be reached