Activating Windows 8 Enterprise 1

[58sniper]

If you install Windows 8 Enterprise, you'll notice that when you try to activate it, there is no option to change the product key. As a result, activation fails. Here's how to do it.

Get your activation key (request from TechNet)
Open an elevated cmd prompt (as administrator)
Navigate to:
x86: %windir%\WinSxS\x86_microsoft-windows-security-spp-tools_31bf3856ad364e35_6.2.9200.16384_none_424451ff90872307
x64: %windir%\WinSxS\amd64_microsoft-windows-security-spp-tools_31bf3856ad364e35_6.2.9200.16384_none_9e62ed8348e4943d
run

slmgr.vbx /ipk [your activation key]

The machine will register that key (you'll get a window pop up), and the machine will be activated.

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[hairlessupportmonkey]

More MS madness! thanks for this, Im about to install my technet version on a spare pc at work....

ACSS - SME
General Geek

 

[kjv1611]

You know, I wonder if it would be a good idea to post this as an FAQ.

"But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:57

 

[flyboytim]

The Windows software licence manager script, slmgr.vbs is in the %windir%\system32 folder, thus there is no need to navigate to any of the side-by-side (%windir%\WinSxS) folders, as the file is on the system path.

If you wish to try the Windows 8 Enterprise installation legitimately and free of charge for 90 days (up to 180 days with rearming the grace period) at any time until the last activation date of August 15 2013, go here:

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/jj554510.aspx

MSDN or Technet accounts are not needed. All that is required is a Windows Live email account (hotmail etc.) now termed a 'Microsoft account'. The download is managed, so you can resume interrupted downloads.

Installation is faster than previous Windows versions.

The installation automatically activates when online.

 

[s0121]

you should use
win key + x --> select command prompt as admin
if the key you installed with was to only install with but will not activate.
slmgr.vbs -upk
wait till the key is removed you will see a popup.
now to add the new key
slmgr.vbs -ipk enter key here
wait until the need to activate watermark goes away.

Windows 8 x64 Enterprise

Frank Smith
SomeWhere in Kansas Near Dodge City