Repo: s1ave77/Windows10Activation (Historical archive)
This repo is mostly deprecated now (MAS took over), but it taught the world that HWID activation was possible. It remains a "better" educational example because it shows exactly how the gatherosstate.exe exploit worked.
Why it's "Better" for learning:
Note: This method no longer works on newer Windows 10 builds (22H2+). Use MAS instead.
When searching for "activating Windows 10" via GitHub, most users are looking for Microsoft Activation Scripts (MAS). This is a popular open-source tool hosted on GitHub used to activate Windows and Office using various methods like HWID (Permanent), Ohook, and KMS38. The Recommended Method: MAS (Microsoft Activation Scripts)
The most straightforward and widely used method involves running a simple command in PowerShell.
Open PowerShell: Right-click the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Terminal (Admin).
Run the Script: Copy and paste the following command and press Enter:irm https://activated.win | iex
Choose Activation Type: A menu will appear with several options:
[1] HWID: Best for Windows 10/11. This provides a permanent digital license linked to your motherboard. Even if you reinstall Windows, it will reactivate automatically. [2] KMS38: Activates Windows until the year 2038. activate windows 10 github better
[3] Online KMS: Primarily used for Windows Server or temporary activation.
Wait for Completion: The script will verify your system and apply the license. Once you see a "Successfully Activated" message, you can close the window. Why this is considered "Better"
Safety: The project is open-source on GitHub, meaning the code is transparent and free of the malware often found in "cracks" or .exe activators.
Simplicity: No need to download files or disable antivirus settings in most cases.
Permanence: The HWID method mimics a genuine upgrade, so your activation survives updates and resets. Verification To confirm your status after running the script: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
It should say: "Windows is activated with a digital license."
Important Note: While these scripts are popular for personal use, using them in a business environment may violate Microsoft's licensing terms. For official support, you can purchase a key through the Microsoft Store.
If you’re having trouble with a specific error code or want to activate Microsoft Office as well, let me know!
The most popular and widely recommended method for activating Windows 10 via GitHub is through the Microsoft Activation Scripts (MAS) repository by user massgravel. This project is favored for being open-source, user-friendly, and frequently updated to maintain effectiveness against new Windows patches. Core Activation Methods Note: This method no longer works on newer
The MAS project offers several techniques, each suited for different user needs:
HWID (Hardware ID): Permanently activates Windows 10/11 by generating a digital license that remains active even if you reinstall Windows on the same hardware.
KMS38: Extends activation until the year 2038, commonly used for enterprise or server editions where a standard digital license may not apply.
Online KMS: Activates Windows (and Office) for 180 days, with an optional background task that automatically renews the license indefinitely. How to Use (Recommended Script)
The script can be run directly via PowerShell without manually downloading files:
Right-click the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
Copy and paste the following command:irm https://get.activated.win | iex
Press Enter. An interactive menu will appear where you can select your desired activation method (e.g., press 1 for HWID). Alternative: Manual CMD Commands
For those who prefer not to use third-party scripts, Windows can sometimes be activated using built-in system tools (slmgr) and generic KMS keys: slmgr /ipk [product-key]: Installs a specific product key. When searching for "activating Windows 10" via GitHub,
slmgr /skms kms8.msguides.com: Sets the Key Management Service (KMS) server.
slmgr /ato: Forces Windows to attempt activation with the newly set key and server. Critical Considerations Activate Windows - Microsoft Support
Even if a script is safe today, the repository owner could push a malicious update in the future, or the repository could be taken down by DMCA notices, leaving users without updates or support. Relying on an unauthorized "cat-and-mouse" game with Microsoft is not a sustainable enterprise strategy.
Microsoft occasionally breaks activation hacks during major updates. You might find your system deactivated again, or worse, stuck in a boot loop after Patch Tuesday.
One popular method involves using a tool or script from a GitHub repository. Please note that the effectiveness and safety of these methods can vary, and they might not always be up-to-date or officially supported by Microsoft.
While the open-source nature of GitHub scripts makes them safer than random executables, risks still exist:
If you have decided to proceed, here is the safest methodology to activate Windows 10 using GitHub scripts.
Modern Windows Defender flags any KMS emulator as "HackTool:Win32/AutoKMS." This is a generic detection.
Because most activation tools trigger Defender, users learn to disable Defender permanently. This is a disaster. Once Defender is disabled, any other virus can walk right in.