When trying to install, repair, or upgrade Windows using the ISO files, we are getting an error when the Setup utility runs. The setup initiates fine but after the “We’re getting some things ready” screen, it gives the following error.
Setup has failed to validate the product key
In this post, we will see what you can do if the Setup fails to validate the product key in Windows 11/10.
Windows 11/10 Setup has failed to validate the product key
If you get the “Setup has failed to validate the product key” error, follow the solutions given below.
- Check for Updates
- Run SFC Scan
- Delete the temporary files
- Try upgrading using Windows Update
- Disconnect from the Domain
- Disable third-party anti-virus software
- Extract the ISO file contents and use them
- Use this Notepad file
Do keep in mind that you have to cancel the process before proceeding with the troubleshooting steps.
1] Check for Updates
Verify that the latest Windows Updates are installed on the system. If you don’t have the latest update installed on your computer, install them from Windows Settings.
2] Run SFC scan
Run the SFC scan on the system. System File Checker helps detect and repair damaged system files.
3] Delete the temporary files
Delete the temporary files. To do so, press Win + R to open the Run window and type temp. Press Enter to open the temporary files window and delete all the files.
Repeat the process with the Run commands %temp% and prefetch.
4] Try upgrading using Windows Update
If it is for the edition upgrade, we could perform it using Windows Update instead of the ISO. However, if you were considering the ISO file in the first place, you must have known your reason right.
5] Disconnect from the domain
For domain-joined systems, remove them from the domain temporarily. A good reference to help with the same could be checked on Microsoft’s website here.
6] Disable third-party anti-virus software
Remove all third-party anti-virus software from the system temporarily to isolate the possibility of their interference.
If all of the above-mentioned attempts don’t work, you could try the following fix. However, doing so involves a clean install of the system so it is advisable to backup your data well in advance.
7] Extract the ISO file contents and use them
Extract the ISO file using Ashampoo ZIP free decompression software.
8] Use this Notepad file
Open a Notepad file and copy-paste the following content in it:
[EditionID] [Channel] Retail [VL] 0
Save this Notepad file by the name ei.cfg to the Sources folder inside the setup ISO file.
Finally, run the setup.exe file to start the installation wizard. You could also try making a bootable USB out of the file and run that USB for repair or re-install.
Let us know if this helps you!
Read: How to find out Windows OEM Product Key in Windows 11/10
How do I activate my Windows 11 product key?
We can activate Windows 11 using a Product Key, using Windows Settings. For that, you need to open Settings, and then go to System > Activation > Upgrade your edition of Windows and then you change your product key.
Read: How to check if the Windows Key is Genuine or Legit
How do I fix my Windows product key problem?
If Windows is unable to activate using a Product Key, there might be something wrong with the activation server. We recommend you check our guide to resolve the Windows Activation issue.
Also Read: Windows Server Change Product Key not working.
