How to fix
Windows activation error 0x8007023E
on Windows

Hello. After upgrading my Windows computer I started receiving the 0x8007023E activation error. What should I do?

Activation errors can seriously affect how people use their Windows devices. An unactivated copy of Windows will give users access only to a limited number of features. This means that users are unable to use most of the personalization settings.

Windows users cannot change the wallpaper, customize the lock screen, change icons, etc. The biggest disadvantage is that an unactivated Windows computer is not eligible to receive the latest security patches and feature updates which can put the system in danger and make it unstable.[ref en-1]

Some users report seeing the Windows activation error 0x8007023E. It is unknown why exactly this error appears. Minor operating system issues can be fixed by using built-in troubleshooters. It is also possible that the activation error appears because of corrupted system files. These files can get corrupted during the upgrading or Windows installation process. In that case, users would have to repair them.

In this guide, you will find 6 steps that will hopefully help you fix these issues. However, troubleshooting Windows activation error 0x8007023E can be a lengthy process so we recommend trying to deploy a maintenance tool like [d1]. It can fix most system errors, BSODs,[ref en-2] corrupted files, and registry[ref en-3] issues. Otherwise, proceed with the step-by-step instructions below.

Method 1. Run Activation Troubleshooter

• Launch the Settings app
• Go to Updates and Security and click Activation

• If you keep seeing the error, you should see the Troubleshoot button
• If any problems are found, follow the instructions to fix it

Method 2. Install Windows Updates

If you are able to install Windows updates, you should install every available package:

• Type Updates in Windows search and press Enter
• In the new window, click Check for updates

• Install everything available (including optional updates)
• Reboot your system

Method 3. Repair Corrupted System Files

Use Command Prompt commands to repair system file corruption:

• Open Command Prompt as administrator
• Use the following command and press Enter:
  sfc /scannow

• Reboot your system
• If SFC returned an error, then use the following command lines, pressing Enter after each:
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Method 4. Disable Third-Party Security Software and VPN

Sometimes antivirus software can block legitimate Windows processes mistakenly. You should try disabling your antivirus or VPN to see if it resolves the 0x8007023E activation error.

Method 5. Connect to Another Network

Some people report that the issue may be related to the network. The Windows Activation server might somehow be blocked on your current network. Try connecting to a different network to see if it fixes the activation issues.

Method 6. Contact Microsoft Support

If none of the above methods have helped you in resolving the Windows activation error 0x8007023E, you might have a serious issue with restrictions and activation servers. When you register your Windows license for the first time, it associates itself with your computer’s hardware. However, if you have made hardware changes, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows might be unable to verify the validity.

A support agent from Microsoft might help you find the reason and remotely fix the problem for you. Try to contact Microsoft support via the official contact page.