Can’t activate Windows 11 after hardware change - old device removed from Microsoft account

Hi everyone,

I need help with Windows activation after a hardware change.

A few years ago, I purchased a Windows 10 retail license directly from the official Microsoft Store for my laptop (it came with no OS). That laptop has since died, but I still have the same Microsoft account and the original activation key from the purchase email.

Here’s what I did:

• I moved the SSD from the laptop to my desktop PC.

I installed a clean copy of Windows 11 on the PC.

When I tried to activate Windows using my original license key, I received the following errors: 0xC004F012 and 0xC004C060.

• I then clicked Troubleshoot > “I changed hardware on this device recently” and signed in with my Microsoft account.

The troubleshooter says:

Unable to activate Windows. We can’t find any devices linked to your Microsoft account that can be used for reactivating the device you’re using right now. Make sure you’re signed in with the same Microsoft account you linked to the Windows 10 digital license on this device or try again later. See other devices linked to your Microsoft account.

This message is expected because I manually removed my old laptop from my Microsoft account’s “Devices” page a while ago.

Now I’m stuck... I can’t reactivate Windows 11 using my valid retail key.

I have proof of purchase from the Microsoft Store and still have the original product key. I wanted to contact support but I cant find an email, i always get redirected back to the same support webpages showing steps i already followed.

So how do i activate windows 11 now ?

Thanks in advance for any help or guidance!

Eddit: Turns out i was wrong, my key was just for an upgrade to windows pro...