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How to Fix Windows License Manager Service Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

If you are seeing errors with the Windows License Manager Service on your Windows 11 PC, it can prevent your system from validating your Windows license properly. This issue may cause activation problems or display error messages related to licensing.

Fortunately, there are simple ways to troubleshoot and fix this problem without needing advanced technical skills. Following step-by-step instructions can help you restore the service to normal.

This guide will walk you through basic to more advanced methods to fix the Windows License Manager Service not working on Windows 11.

By the end, you should have a clear understanding of how to resolve this issue and keep your Windows activation running smoothly.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before diving into fixes, make sure you do the following:

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve temporary glitches affecting the service.
  • Check your internet connection: Activation requires internet access to communicate with Microsoft servers.
  • Run Windows Update: Ensure your system is fully updated as some updates can fix licensing-related bugs.
  • Verify your Windows version: Only genuine, properly installed Windows versions will activate without issues.

Step 1: Restart the Windows License Manager Service

The Windows License Manager Service controls license validation and activation. Restarting the service can clear temporary errors.

  1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down and find Windows License Manager Service.
  4. Right-click the service and select Restart. If the option is greyed out, select Start instead.
  5. Wait a few seconds and close the Services window.
  6. Check if your license issues are resolved.

Why this matters: Restarting the service refreshes its operation and can fix minor glitches without deeper intervention.

Step 2: Run the Windows Activation Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter to automatically detect and fix activation-related problems.

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to System > Activation.
  3. Look for the Activation troubleshooter link and click it.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows scan and attempt to fix activation errors.

Why this matters: The troubleshooter can identify common issues and apply fixes automatically, saving time and effort.

Step 3: Check Service Dependencies

The License Manager Service depends on other system services to function properly. If any dependencies are disabled, it can cause issues.

  1. Open the services.msc window again (see Step 1).
  2. Right-click Windows License Manager Service and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Dependencies tab.
  4. Note the services listed under dependencies.
  5. Return to the main Services window and ensure each dependency service is running.
  6. If any are stopped, right-click and select Start.

Why this matters: The License Manager Service relies on other services. Ensuring they are active helps the license manager run smoothly.

Step 4: Reset Windows Activation Tokens

Sometimes, corrupt activation tokens can cause license validation errors. Resetting these tokens can help.

  1. Press Windows + S, type Command Prompt, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
net stop sppsvc
cd %windir%ServiceProfilesNetworkServiceAppDataRoamingMicrosoftSoftwareProtectionPlatform
rename tokens.dat tokens.old
net start sppsvc

After running these commands, restart your computer and check if the issue is fixed.

Why this matters: These commands stop the Software Protection service, rename the potentially corrupted token file, and restart the service, forcing Windows to recreate license tokens.

Step 5: Use System File Checker and DISM Tools

Corrupted system files can disrupt services including the License Manager. Running built-in repair tools can fix such corruptions.

  1. Open an elevated Command Prompt (Run as administrator).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This will scan and repair protected system files. It may take several minutes.

  1. After SFC completes, run these DISM commands one by one:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Once all commands finish, restart your PC and test the License Manager service again.

Why this matters: SFC and DISM repair corrupted or missing files that might prevent services from running properly.

Alternative Method: Re-register License Manager DLL Files

If the service still fails, you can try re-registering related DLL files that help the license service function.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Run these commands one after another:
regsvr32.exe sppcomapi.dll
regsvr32.exe slc.dll

You should see confirmation dialogs if registration succeeds. Restart your computer afterward.

Note: This method refreshes the system components responsible for license management.

FAQs

Why is the Windows License Manager Service important?

This service manages Windows activation and license validation. If it’s not working, your system may show activation errors or lose access to certain features.

Can I disable the Windows License Manager Service?

No, disabling this service can cause Windows activation and update issues. It should always be running.

Will these steps affect my personal files?

No, the troubleshooting steps focus on system services and files. Your personal data will remain safe.

What if I see error codes during activation?

Running the activation troubleshooter or contacting Microsoft support with the error code can help resolve specific activation errors.

Does this work for Windows 10 as well?

Most steps are similar for Windows 10, but some interface elements may differ slightly.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the Windows License Manager Service issue, consider the following:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: They can provide specialized assistance for activation problems.
  • Perform a Repair Install: Using the Windows 11 installation media to repair your system without losing files.
  • Check for Malware: Some malware can affect system services, so running a full antivirus scan is wise.
  • Visit Official Microsoft Resources: The Windows Activation Troubleshooting page offers detailed guides.

Conclusion

Fixing the Windows License Manager Service not working on Windows 11 often involves simple steps like restarting the service, running the activation troubleshooter, or repairing system files. Starting with basic checks saves time and prevents unnecessary complexity.

If problems persist, resetting activation tokens or re-registering related DLL files can help restore normal function. Always ensure your system is updated and that required services are running.

By carefully following this guide, you can resolve activation and licensing issues and keep your Windows 11 system properly licensed and secure.

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