Method 1: Manual Activation of Windows 11 using KMS Client Key

🖥️ Method 1: Manual Activation of Windows 11 (KMS Client)

This "Manual Activation" method uses the built-in Windows Script Host (slmgr.vbs) to install a Generic Volume License Key (GVLK) and connect the client directly to a Key Management Service (KMS) host server.

⚠️ Context for Manual KMS Activation

This process is only for users who have a valid **Volume License Agreement** and the necessary details (GVLK key, KMS Host Address) provided by their organization's IT department. KMS activation is temporary (180 days) and requires regular renewal contact with the host server.

Step 1: Get Administrative Access

1. Press the **Windows key**, type cmd.
2. Right-click on **Command Prompt** from the search results.
3. Select **Run as administrator** to open an elevated command window.

Step 2: Install the KMS Client Key (GVLK)

You must install the GVLK key that corresponds to your Windows 11 edition (e.g., Pro, Enterprise, Education).

Common GVLK Keys (for reference):

• Windows 11 Pro: W269N-WFGWX-YVC9B-4J6C9-T83GX
• Windows 11 Enterprise: NPPR9-FWDCX-D2C8J-H872K-2YT43

Run the command below, substituting <Your_GVLK_Key> with the appropriate key:

slmgr /ipk <Your_GVLK_Key>

Example for Pro edition: slmgr /ipk W269N-WFGWX-YVC9B-4J6C9-T83GX

You should receive a prompt confirming the Product Key installation.

Step 3: Specify the KMS Host Server

If your organization's KMS host is not automatically discovered via DNS, you must manually point your client to the correct server address (provided by your IT Admin).

Run the command below, replacing <KMS_Server_Address> with the hostname or IP address:

slmgr /skms <KMS_Server_Address>

If successful, a message will confirm the Key Management Service machine name was set.

Step 4: Execute Activation

Finally, instruct the client to attempt activation with the configured KMS host.

slmgr /ato

If the client successfully connects to the KMS host and the host is active, you will receive a message stating the product is activated successfully.

Step 5: Verify Activation

To confirm that Windows 11 is activated and to view the expiration date of the 180-day cycle, use the command:

slmgr /dlv