# 0xC004F012: Key not found in the license store

> Source: https://karincalisans.com/en/windows-error-codes/0xc004f012/ · Updated: 2026-08-28 · Publisher: Karınca Lisans

0xC004F012 means the Software Licensing Service could not find the record for the entered key in the local license store. An incomplete edition upgrade (Home→Pro), an interrupted update or a corrupted license store (tokens.dat) are the typical causes. Repairing the store and reinstalling the key resolves it.

## Most common causes

- An edition upgrade from Home to Pro did not complete
- The license store (tokens.dat) is corrupted
- A major Windows update was interrupted
- The key does not belong to the installed edition

## Step-by-step fix

1. Type "winver" in Start to confirm the edition; if the key is Pro, make sure the system is Pro.
2. In an elevated Command Prompt remove the current key with "slmgr /upk" and clear it from the registry with "slmgr /cpky".
3. Reinstall the key with "slmgr /ipk KEY" and activate with "slmgr /ato".
4. If the error persists, rebuild the license store: "net stop sppsvc" → rename %windir%\System32\spp\store\2.0\tokens.dat to tokens.bak → "net start sppsvc" → enter the key again.
5. As a last resort repair system files with "sfc /scannow" and "DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth".

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is it safe to delete tokens.dat?

Renaming it (not deleting) is safe; Windows recreates the file automatically. You will, however, need to re-enter your Windows and Office keys afterwards.

### What if I get this during a Home→Pro upgrade?

First confirm the switch to Pro completed (winver). If the upgrade is stuck, changing the edition with the generic Pro key and then entering your own key resolves it; the steps are in our installation guide.