Microsoft takes out the trash: Why the permanent blocking of a popular Windows 11 activation hack is a major win for system integrity and security

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Now that Windows 10’s mainstream support has ended, more people are considering Windows 11. However, Microsoft has cracked down on a method used to activate Windows without a valid license, removing one option for those trying to bypass the licensing process.

The tool is created by a group known as Massgrave, which stands for Microsoft Activation Scripts. They’ve released a collection of online tools – PowerShell scripts available on GitHub – that allow users to activate Windows and Office without purchasing a license, effectively letting people use the software without paying.

Earlier this year, Ed Bott wrote about and thoroughly tested methods for keeping older PCs secure on ZDNet. In February, he successfully used scripts from Massgrave to activate a computer and provide it with three years of additional security updates.

Bott also managed to activate Office using the tools Massgrave shared. While these tools seem to work, it’s hard to say how secure they are. Even if the original scripts are safe, others could easily create and spread altered versions containing harmful software.

I recently came across something concerning: a modified version of a program designed to get around Windows 11’s system requirements. What made it alarming was that it had been deliberately loaded with malware. It’s a clear example of how malicious individuals are taking legitimate tools and turning them into something dangerous.

It might seem unbelievable, but it’s true – at least if you’re concerned about doing things legally. Massgrave openly admits its tools are designed for piracy.

As an analyst, I’ve found these scripts have the potential to save significant money – potentially hundreds of dollars per system – if they work as intended. While Microsoft isn’t likely to detect their use in many scenarios, there’s still a risk of getting caught. I’m particularly concerned about businesses; if their IT departments were to use tools like Massgrave to activate PCs and run unlicensed software, they could face serious problems.

According to the creator of Massgrave, Microsoft has disabled a previously working activation method, called KMS38, as first noted by Neowin. Users began reporting issues with it after Microsoft’s updates released in November 2025.

It’s a constant back-and-forth when trying to get around restrictions. Massgrave might discover a new way to bypass the blocks, and Microsoft would likely need to counter that with another solution.

Plugging holes

I generally dislike when Microsoft prevents users from finding alternative solutions. I’m annoyed that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to install Windows 11 without an internet connection or a Microsoft account. I was particularly disappointed when Microsoft stopped a common method for bypassing these requirements earlier this year.

However, the case with MAK (Multiple Activation Key) is different. It’s often used to illegally activate Windows, so it makes sense that Microsoft would try to prevent it from activating Windows without a valid license.

Many people might hesitate to upgrade to Windows 11 if they have to pay for a new license. For years, people have jokingly said each year would be the year Linux becomes popular, but with Windows 10 no longer supported, we could actually see a significant number of Windows users switching to other operating systems.

Many computers can’t upgrade to Windows 11 because of its system requirements. This makes Linux and Google’s ChromeOS increasingly attractive alternatives, as both platforms have improved significantly. In fact, some people have even created WINUX, a free Linux operating system specifically designed to be easy for Windows users to switch to.

FAQ

What exactly was the activation hack that Microsoft blocked?

The recently disabled technique was a common way for people to get around Microsoft’s security and activation process, letting them use Windows 11 without a valid license – and it was frequently used for illegal copying.

Why is blocking this hack considered a “good thing”?

Preventing unauthorized access and use of Windows is important for keeping the entire system safe and reliable. Illegally copied versions of Windows often don’t receive necessary security updates and can even contain harmful software, putting users and their networks at risk.

Will this block affect my legitimately purchased copy of Windows 11?

If you’re using a genuine, activated version of Windows 11, this update won’t cause any problems. It’s specifically made to stop people from using the operating system without a valid license.

What happens to a PC that used this hack to activate Windows 11?

Computers activated using this unofficial method will probably stop working and show a message asking you to activate Windows. You won’t be able to customize your settings, and you’ll need to buy a valid Windows license to fix it.

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2025-11-14 00:40