How To Fix ” This Copy of Windows Is Not Genuine”

You may be having a Windows update and causing this problem. In this case, you get an error after booting into the PC, that Windows is not genuine, and also the desktop background changes to a black screen. You will not be able to change the background however you like.

If you have tried to enter the License Key repeatedly or use any software/Patch to crack Windows activation. But still getting the error Windows 7 is not genuine or, this copy of Windows is not genuine build 7601/7600, then this tutorial is for you.

How To Fix ” This Copy of Windows Is Not Genuine”

Alternative 1 - Type-A Command In Command Prompt

1. Go to the Start menu and search for cmd. You will get cmd.exe in the search result then right-click on cmd.exe and then click Run as Administrator. It will launch a command prompt with administrative privilege.

Step 2. Once the command prompt is opened now type the following command, SLMGR -REARM.

Make sure you type the same command without any mistakes and also ensure that the command prompt is opened in administrator mode otherwise, it will not work.

Step 3. Once you type the above command in the command prompt window then hit the Enter button on your keyboard to execute the above command.

Step 4. After you hit enter a confirmation window will appear with the details of the command execution.

Click on “OK” to close the dialog box.

Step 5. Now Restart your computer. After the restart, you will not get that error again like Windows 7 build 7601 or 7600, This copy of Windows is not genuine.

Alternative 2 - Uninstall KB971003 To Make Windows 7 Not Genuine

Microsoft releases updates to fight counterfeit operating system installation and license keys. Sometimes these updates throw false-positive results and your genuine and original product key expires and Windows 7 shows no genuine error.

If your Windows 7 becomes non-genuine after updating the Windows then follow these steps to fix this error-

1. Go to Start then Control Panel.

2 . Click on Windows Update at the very bottom of the control panel.

3. Now click on View Installed Updates, It’ll open a list of installed Windows updates.

4. Find an update KB971033 and uninstall it by double-clicking on it.

5. Also, look for the recently installed updates after which you started getting the error. Find and uninstall those updates as well.

After that Restart, you won’t get Windows is not genuine error again. But, if you update Windows 7 again then the problem will arise. So consider disabling Windows updates.

Alternative 3 - Re-Register The License Key

If the two methods above are still not resolved, you should follow this last method. By re-registering your Windows license, or buying a new license key.

Press the Win+R keys together to open the “Run” dialog box. Type “slui.exe” and click OK.

Once you find the Windows Activation prompt, select the “Retype your product key” option. Here you need to enter the key you have noted.

Finally, you should not use patches or cracks too often, because it can make the worst happen one day. Maybe your files are hit by a virus attack, or photos/videos of your memories are suddenly lost due to a damaged Windows registry.

FAQ: How to Fix "This Copy of Windows Is Not Genuine"

1. What does "This Copy of Windows Is Not Genuine" mean?

This message indicates that your Windows operating system is not validated as a genuine copy by Microsoft. This can happen for various reasons, including using a pirated version, an issue with your product key, or system file corruption.

2. What are the common causes of this error?

Invalid Product Key: The key used may not be genuine.
Corrupted System Files: Important files may be corrupted.
Hardware Changes: Significant changes to your hardware can trigger validation issues.
Expired License: If your license is time-limited, it may have expired.

3. How can I check if my Windows is genuine?

To check your Windows activation status:

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Type slmgr.vbs /xpr and press Enter.
A message will display your activation status.

4. What should I do if I see this message?

Here are several steps you can take to resolve the issue:

A. Activate Windows

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
Click on Change product key and enter a valid product key.

B. Use the Command Prompt

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type slmgr /rearm and press Enter.
Restart your computer.

C. Run the Windows Activation Troubleshooter

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
Click on Troubleshoot to run the troubleshooter.

D. Check for Corrupted System Files

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Wait for the scan to complete and follow any instructions.

5. What if these steps don’t work?

If the issue persists:

Contact Microsoft Support: They can assist you with validation and activation issues.
Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, consider reinstalling Windows using a genuine copy.

6. Can I still use my computer while this message appears?

While you can still use your computer, the message may limit certain features and functionalities. It’s advisable to resolve the issue to ensure full access to your system.

7. How can I prevent this issue in the future?

Always purchase Windows from official Microsoft sources or authorized retailers.
Keep your system updated to ensure compatibility with Microsoft’s activation servers.