Share via

Azure VM PAYG Windows License Activation issue

Ahmad Yousef 0 Reputation points
2026-05-15T10:47:25.3066667+00:00

Although many of our Azure VMs have PAYG Licensing enabled, but still I cannot activate Windows and it asks for the key.

how to activate OS? I assume that activation should go smoothly without asking for keys

your feedback is appreciated

Windows for business | Windows Server | Devices and deployment | Licensing and activation
0 comments

1 answer

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Marcin Policht 89,325 Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2026-05-15T11:07:09.9933333+00:00

    Yep - this should be automatic by relying on the platform-provided KMS.

    To troubleshoot, follow https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/azure/virtual-machines/windows/troubleshoot-activation-problems

    If the above response helps answer your question, remember to "Accept Answer" so that others in the community facing similar issues can easily find the solution. Your contribution is highly appreciated.

    hth

    Marcin

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments

Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.