Microsoft shuts down popular KMS38 activation workaround for Windows and Office

[ThumperTM]

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Black flag down: Microsoft has closed an activation loophole that was widely used by software pirates to run Windows and Office without a legitimate license. The group behind the activation tool has confirmed that the method no longer works following the November 2025 Patch Tuesday update.

Known as the KMS38 activator, the open-source tool was created by a group called Massgrave, where MAS stands for Microsoft Activation Scripts. It was widely regarded as one of the easiest and safest ways to activate Windows and Office without paying, allowing users to install all official updates just like any legitimately licensed copy.

Following the latest update, however, PCs activated with the tool are losing their activation, with users now seeing messages urging them to purchase a legitimate license from Microsoft or its authorized resellers. Legal Windows 11 licenses can be found online for as low as $10, while Office 2021 Pro is available for around $39.

KMS38 has circulated online for years across software forums, piracy websites, and GitHub mirrors, attracting a large community of both tech-savvy users and newcomers. Curiously, the download is actually hosted on two Microsoft-owned platforms: Azure DevOps and GitHub. Massgrave's developers also maintain a self-hosted Git repository and a website offering step-by-step activation guides.



While some argue that blocking the KMS38 activation method is a step toward protecting users from malware, others counter that KMS38 is an open-source tool that anyone can inspect for malicious code. Several reputable tech outlets, including ZDNet, have tested the activation method and reported that it works exactly as advertised.

Massgrave's latest changelog notes that the main KMS activation option has been removed from the tool following Microsoft's block. The developers are now urging users to switch to the HWID (Hardware ID) or TSforge activation methods, which still function as expected. They also say they're hopeful they can circumvent the block in the future.

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This crackdown on unofficial activation methods comes just weeks after Microsoft tightened the Windows 11 installation process by blocking all known methods of setting up the OS without a Microsoft account. The update now makes it impossible to install Windows 11 offline using a local account.

Windows and Office piracy has long been a major challenge for Microsoft, though the company has historically taken a relatively relaxed stance on the issue.

Bill Gates even once admitted that piracy helped supercharge Windows adoption and cement its status as the dominant desktop operating system. But Microsoft's recent actions suggest that Redmond may finally be shifting away from its formerly lenient attitude toward piracy.

 

[joanneee]

Thanks so much my friend

 

[DVDR_Dog]

Well all good things must come to an end. I am sure there is someone out there working on a replacement.
Honestly I am surprised it took Microsoft so long too shut this down. Up until now all they were doing is convincing every a/v and spyware program to flag and instantly remove the KMS38 from the users computer.
With legit Win 11 pro licenses going for 12 bucks retail it's obvious that Microsoft is worried about revenue loss from Office except as Bill Gates already stated his feelings.
I never ever found a business that was using pirated licenses for Office or Windows. They do that for a number of reasons. If I was questioned by a business, I always warned that Microsoft had no qualms against legally prosecuting. This resulted in legal fees not to mention the fines and eventual licensing fees that you will still have to pay Microsoft at full MSRP which is nuts.
The reason they don't bother with home users is three fold. They don't want to be ID'd as the bad boys who go after old folks and kids. Even if they do prosecute, their chances of recouping legal fees, etc. aren't so good. Lastly, Gates is right, get folks comfortable with Windows and Office and when they take employment it minimizes the training time and expense to get new employee up to speed and they are comfortable with those products. Net expense to Microsoft to train $0.00, not bad.
Apple tried to horn in by providing Macs to schools for use by students for Apple's cost or less. Didn't work so well. Google started handing out tablets for free and Chromium netbooks for very cheap. Not as popular as it once was but stop the flow of iPads into public schools.

 

[Diguelo]

Now theres a shocker.

 

[sajle]

Honestly I am surprised it took Microsoft so long too shut this down. Up until now all they were doing is convincing every a/v and spyware program to flag and instantly remove the KMS38 from the users computer.

- Micro$oft is tolerating private users for (not buying the license). They are after the Business' and I agree, if you are using MS software for business, earning money with it - you should by a valid LICENCE!

With legit Win 11 pro licenses going for 12 bucks retail it's obvious that Microsoft is worried about revenue loss from Office except as Bill Gates already stated his feelings.
I never ever found a business that was using pirated licenses for Office or Windows. They do that for a number of reasons. If I was questioned by a business, I always warned that Microsoft had no qualms against legally prosecuting. This resulted in legal fees not to mention the fines and eventual licensing fees that you will still have to pay Microsoft at full MSRP which is nuts.
The reason they don't bother with home users is three fold. They don't want to be ID'd as the bad boys who go after old folks and kids. Even if they do prosecute, their chances of recouping legal fees, etc. aren't so good. Lastly, Gates is right, get folks comfortable with Windows and Office and when they take employment it minimizes the training time and expense to get new employee up to speed and they are comfortable with those products

I agree with you - home users are just users, they don't profit from using "MS shit" - M$ - let them be!
BTW - Micro$oft is after the personal details of their users... Watch out, you, uninformed users!!!

 

[sajle]

If you are looking for a very clean, without bloatware, fast, easy on resources Windows - You should try Ghost Spectre version!!! Can I post a link?

 

[sajle]

BTW, did you try this Office Activator? Does it work?

 

[sajle]

IMHO - it is the best tool I was able to find for downloading/installing/activating MS Office, also great for uninstalling old versions of Office... Give it a go... If I am allowed, I can post the link for downloading...

 

[junemoore0329]

BTW, did you try this Office Activator? Does it work?
View attachment 6855

I would like the link if it works

 

[LUVO]

If you are looking for a very clean, without bloatware, fast, easy on resources Windows - You should try Ghost Spectre version!!! Can I post a link?

I want the link please share