Windows: Activate Windows Operating System Manually

This information is for users who need to activate Windows on University-owned computers. 

Windows on University of Minnesota computers is activated from a Key Management Server (KMS). In most cases activation happens automatically, but if this does not happen, follow the directions below.

In this article:

Before You Start

  • To be sure your edition of Windows can be activated, your software should be installed from media or install files provided by the University.
  • Check system date and time. If it is wrong, correct it.

Activate Windows

  1. Connect to University of Minnesota networks
    • If on campus, use a wired network connection, or WiFi provided by the University
    • If off campus, connect to VPN
  2. Use your computer as you normally would and Windows should automatically activate. If Windows does not activate within 2 hours, continue to the next step.
  3. Open the Command Prompt
    • Search for cmd.exe in search taskbar
    • Click on Command Prompt
    • Search of "cmd.exe" from search taskbar with Command Prompt selected
  4. In the Command Prompt window, enter the following: slmgr.vbs /ato.
  • Within Command Prompt window, manual Windows activation command displayed
  1. If Success notices appear, select OK.
  2. Windows should be activated. Close the Command Prompt window.​​​​​​​​​

Follow Up

  • Reactivation is required every 180 days.
  • After Windows is activated, you must reconnect to University networks occasionally, and Windows should connect to Key Management Service (KMS) when needed and stay activated.

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