Microsoft released five emergency cumulative Windows updates on November 13 to address licensing and activation failures linked to its November 10 Patch Tuesday releases. The updates are non-security fixes.
The problem can cause activation error 0x80041008, particularly when administrators use the Software Licensing Management Tool (SLMGR) to install product keys or configure Key Management Service (KMS) activation. Organizations relying on scripts, automated licensing systems, or deployment images may also be affected.
Microsoft says devices that are already activated and do not depend on the affected SLMGR commands are not impacted.
Affected Windows versions and updates
| Windows version | Emergency update |
|---|---|
| Windows 11 23H2 | KB5136483 |
| Windows 10 22H2, ESU/LTSC 2021 | KB5136493 |
| Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 | KB5136490 |
| Windows Server 2019 | KB5136490 |
| Windows Server 2022 | KB5136487 |
| Windows Server 2025 | KB5136489 |
The updates include improvements from the November 10 cumulative release and fix the activation issue.
How to install the update
Windows 11 users can open Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates. If the update is offered, download and install it, then restart the computer if prompted. On Windows 11 23H2, it may appear under Optional Updates.
Organizations can also download standalone packages from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Administrators should choose the package that matches their Windows version and system architecture. Server updates can also be deployed through Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).
After installation, organizations should check that product-key installation, KMS configuration, and automated activation processes are working as expected.