Error installing Win10: Windows cannot read the <ProductKey> setting from the unattend answer file

Ken K 11 Reputation points
2021-06-14T02:25:11.363+00:00

So I'm building a new PC. I have Windows 10 Home retail version on the readonly USB stick. At the beginning of the install process I'm getting the error message "Windows cannot read the <ProductKey> setting from the unattend answer file. Clicking "OK" reboots the machine.

I don't see a way to enter in my product key. I'm not trying to do an unattended installation.

I've read where I'm supposed to download an ISO file and create a bootable USB Key or DVD but I don't have a spare USB key.

Windows 10 Setup
Windows 10 Setup
Windows 10: A Microsoft operating system that runs on personal computers and tablets.Setup: The procedures involved in preparing a software program or application to operate within a computer or mobile device.
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  1. dereck 20 Reputation points
    2024-05-27T12:30:23.8066667+00:00

    The error "Windows cannot read the <ProductKey> setting from the unattend answer file" during Windows 10 installation typically occurs due to an incorrect or missing product key in the answer file. Ensure the key is correctly entered in the unattend.xml file under the <ProductKey> tag within the <UserData> section.

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