# Troubleshooting Windows 10 needs to be activated error on the MiniSeq.

Users may notice a Windows error "**Error code: 0xc004F025 Windows 10 needs to be activated.**" on the MiniSeq. The error may appear in the bottom right corner of the instrument as "Windows 10 needs to be activated."

In the Windows Settings there is an option to manually enter a key. However, Windows 10 typically activates internally. If the MiniSeq instrument is left idle for a length of time and the password for the sbsadmin account expires, it is possible for the internal activation to be stalled.

**Troubleshooting Steps**:

1. Update the credentials for the Windows admin account (sbsadmin).
2. Open the command terminal as an administrator to manually activate Windows.
   1. Run Command prompt as administrator.
   2. Enter the command, for eg, `slmgr -rearm` then press enter key.
3. Power cycle the instrument. For further information, search for Knowledge Base article **How to Power Cycle the MiniSeq**.

If the error persists, contact [Illumina Technical Support](https://www.illumina.com/company/contact-us.html#/united-states/technical-support).

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| *For any feedback or questions regarding this article (Illumina Knowledge Article #5678), contact Illumina Technical Support* [*techsupport@illumina.com*](mailto:techsupport@illumina.com?subject=Question%2FFeedback%20Regarding%20Illumina%20Knowledge%20Article%20#000005678%20-%20Instrumentation%20\&body=Dear%20Illumina%20Technical%20Support,%0D%0A%0D%0A)*.* |


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