How to Fix Acquisition of End User License Failure, Event ID 1014

While exploring the Event Viewer, we encountered Event ID 1014, which indicates that the Acquisition of End User License has failed. This error can arise in various scenarios, including issues with Microsoft 365 installation, activation of a new Windows device, and more. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to address this problem.

Acquisition of End User License failed

Source: Security-SPP

Event ID: 1014

How to Fix the Acquisition of End User License Failed, Event ID 1014

If you’re facing an issue where the acquisition of the end user license has failed, as indicated by Event ID 1014 in the Event Viewer on your Windows 10 or 11 system, consider implementing the fixes outlined below.

1. Disable Automatic Settings Detection
2. Ensure a Stable Network Connection for Activation
3. Turn Off Proxy or VPN
4. Reset the Activation Timer
5. Activate the Windows Machine with Key Management Services (KMS)
6. Repair Microsoft Office or Microsoft 365

Let’s explore these solutions in further detail.

1] Disable Automatic Settings Detection

With the Automatic settings detection feature activated, your computer automatically configures your network settings, such as the IP address and DNS server address. However, if the license acquisition fails, it might indicate that your system isn’t detecting the correct settings. To address this, we will disable this feature and reattempt the Office or Microsoft 365 configuration. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Control Panel.
2. Set the View by option to Large icons.
3. Navigate to the Connections tab and select LAN settings.
4. Uncheck the box next to Automatically detect settings.
5. Click OK.

Once these changes are made, try configuring Microsoft 365 again. The issue should ideally be resolved.

2] Ensure a Stable Network Connection for Activation

An inconsistent network can often lead to license acquisition failures. Before proceeding, check to ensure that your internet connection is stable. It’s recommended to use a wired connection if possible, but if not, consider testing your network with a free speed test before activation.

3] Turn Off Proxy or VPN

When deploying or setting up Microsoft 365, it’s crucial to disable any Proxy or VPN settings. If these services are active, your system may struggle to find the correct server, resulting in activation failure. If no manual proxy settings are configured, ensure that Automatic detection is disabled. Here’s how to do that:

1. Open Settings using Win + I.
2. Go to Network and Internet, then Proxy.
3. Disable Automatic detection in the Automatic proxy setup section.

After completing these steps, restart your computer and then try to set up your license again. This should resolve the issue.

4] Reset the Activation Timer

If you encounter this problem during Windows activation, it’s likely that the grace period has lapsed. In such situations, you can reset the activation timer using the command slmgr /rearm. This command resets the activation clock to its original state, effectively extending the trial period. To execute this, open Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the command:

slmgr /rearm

Then, reboot your computer and check if the issue has been rectified.

5] Activate Windows using Key Management Services (KMS)

Key Management Services (KMS) is a Microsoft technology utilized to activate products like Windows and Office in volume licensing environments. Since the standard activation method is failing, try to activate the machine with a KMS host using the appropriate Generic Volume License Key. Follow these steps:

1. Search for Command Prompt in the Start Menu and run it as an administrator.
2. Execute the command slmgr /ipk <product-key>.
3. Next, run slmgr /ato.

Restart your computer after completion and check if the problem persists.

6] Repair Microsoft Office or Microsoft 365

If you’re unable to activate Office or Microsoft 365 even after disabling the proxy and adjusting other network settings, you might need to repair the application. To do this, follow the steps outlined below:

1. Open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
3. Search for “Microsoft 365” or “Office” , click on the three dots, and select Modify.
4. Choose Quick Repair.

If the quick repair doesn’t resolve the issue, consider trying the Online Repair option.

By executing the solutions discussed in this article, you should be able to effectively address the issue.

Understanding Event ID 1014

Event ID 1014 typically signifies a failure in license acquisition within Windows. This error may surface when Windows is attempting to activate or validate its license but doesn’t succeed. The error message “Acquisition of End User License failed” indicates that there was a problem during the activation process, which can occur when activating Microsoft 365 or a Windows client/server operating system.

What is the Event ID for Failed Logon in the Windows Event Log?

Event ID 4625 corresponds to failed logon attempts. This event is recorded in the Windows Event Viewer and documents each unsuccessful attempt to log on to a local machine. You can review the Event Viewer following a failed logon attempt to locate this event.

Author: Egor Kostenko

My goal is to make complex technical topics simple and accessible. On this site, I gather unique and useful content that not only solves users’ problems but also helps them better understand the capabilities of Windows.