How to activate Windows 10 / Server 2016 through command line

If you are having problems activating Windows 10, Server 2016, Windows 8, or Server 2012 one of these three solutions below should get you through:

Command Line to Launch Activation GUI:

This is handy if the GUI won’t start and you want to skip some steps to get it to work.

1. click START (gets you to the tiles)
2. type RUN
3. type slui 3 and press ENTER
4. yes, SLUI: which stands for SOFTWARE LICENSING USER INTERFACE
5. SLUI 1 brings up the activation status window
6. SLUI 2 brings up the activation window
7. SLUI 3 brings up the CHANGE PRODUCT KEY window
8. SLUI 4 brings up the CALL MICROSOFT & MANUALLY ACTIVATE window
9. Type in your product key

Have a nice day.

Command Line to Activate Windows Through Command Line:

1. Launch a CMD as an Administrator
2. Type: slmgr.vbs /ipk xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx
3. Press Enter If your key is valid and you are connected to the internet, it should activate within a second or two.

Call Microsoft Activation Center:

In Switzerland, call the support line directly at (41) (44) 580 7558 or (00) (800) 22848283, otherwise, use this table of Microsoft Activation Phone Numbers to do the deed.