How to Fix “Windows Evaluation Copy” When Your Product Key Doesn’t Work

If you see a watermark on your screen that says:

“Windows Evaluation Copy – Build XXXX”,
…and when you try to activate your license it says your key is invalid, you’re not doing anything wrong.

The issue is simple: you have the wrong version of Windows installed.

❌ Why Your Key Isn’t Working

You probably installed Windows 10/11 Enterprise Evaluation, which is:

• Meant for enterprise IT testing only

• Valid for only 90 days

• Not compatible with retail product keys (like Windows 10 Pro or 11 Pro)

• Shows a watermark: "Evaluation Copy – Build XXXXX"

Your Pro key will never work on an Enterprise Evaluation version, no matter how many times you try.

✅ How to Fix It (Correct Way)

You’ll need to do a clean installation of the correct edition:
Windows 10 Pro or Windows 11 Pro.

✅ Step 1: Backup Your Files

Since we’ll be reinstalling the system, it’s highly recommended to back up:

• Personal files

• Downloads

• Desktop folders

• Anything else you need to keep

Use a USB, external hard drive, or cloud backup.

✅ Step 2: Download the Right Version of Windows

1. Go to Microsoft’s official site:
   👉 https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11

2. Download the Media Creation Tool

3. Use it to create a bootable USB with Windows 11 Pro (or use /windows10 for Windows 10 Pro)

✅ Step 3: Reinstall Windows (Clean Installation)

1. Plug in the USB and restart your computer

2. Press the boot menu key (F12, F9, Esc, or Del, depending on your brand)

3. Select the USB as boot device

4. Choose Custom Install

5. Delete all partitions except unallocated space (or format C:)

6. Select the drive and click Next

Windows will begin installing from scratch.

✅ Step 4: Activate with Your Product Key

Once Windows finishes:

• Go to Settings > System > Activation

• Click Change product key

• Enter your valid Windows Pro key from KingLicenses.com

🎉 Done! You’ll now be running the correct version and your license will work.

🚫 What NOT to Do:

• Don’t try to convert Evaluation to Retail using hacks or scripts — it often causes more issues.

• Don’t try to use your key on Windows Enterprise — it simply won’t work.

💬 Need Help?

We assist users with this issue every day. Reach out to us 24/7 if you’re unsure how to proceed:

📧 Email: genuinekeylicenses@gmail.com
📞 Phone: +1 (305) 896-1926