Error 0x80070490: Product key does not work
This error occurs in: Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server 2019.
Cause
The MAK key is invalid or there is a known issue with Windows Server 2019 and key authentication. The error may also occur when entering a key for a different product version.
Symptoms
- During activation, the message appears: "Product key did not work"
- Error code:
0x80070490 - English version: "The product key didn't work. Check the product key and try again"
Step-by-step solution
Try to activate via command line (admin): slmgr -ipk <5x5 key>. If it's Windows Server 2019, make sure the latest updates are installed.
Solution for Windows Server
- Open PowerShell as administrator
- Enter the key:
slmgr /ipk XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
- Activate:
slmgr /ato
- Check status:
slmgr /xpr
Verification
After performing the steps, check if the activation was successful:
- Windows: Settings → System → Activation → should be "Windows is activated"
- Or:
slmgr /xprin the command line
Still not working?
If the above steps did not help:
- Check date and time — they must be correct (incorrect date may block activation)
- Temporarily disable antivirus and try again
- Check internet connection — online activation requires a connection to Microsoft servers
- Contact us:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 00 800 121 1654 (toll-free)
- Help center: pomoc.kluczesoft.pl