Microsoft launched Windows 10 back in 2015, and since then it has quietly replaced its older versions: Windows 7 and 8. However, to enjoy the full features of Windows 10, you need to activate it. Without activating, you won’t be able to download critical updates or apps on your system. You cannot customize the desktop. You will be bugged periodically with messages asking you to activate your copy of Windows. It is essential to know whether your Windows 10 copy is activated. Here we show you three methods to check whether Windows 10 is activated.
Check Activation Status through System Window
One of the easiest ways to check the Windows 10 activation status is to look at the System window. To do that, follow the steps below:
1. Press the keyboard shortcut Win + X and select the “Settings” option. Alternatively, you can also search for “Settings” in the Start menu.
2. On the left pane of the Settings window, find the “Activation” section.
3. At the top, under the Windows section, it shows details of whether your Windows 10 copy is activated.
This window even displays the option to change the product key if you ever need it, like when you are upgrading from one edition to the other.
Check Activation Status through the Command Prompt
You can also use the regular Command Prompt to check your Windows 10 Activation status.
1. To do that, press Win + R, type cmd and press the Enter button to open the Command Prompt. Alternatively, you can also search for the Command Prompt in the Start menu.
2. Once the Command Prompt window opens, enter the below command and press the Enter button.
3. As soon as you press the Enter button, Windows will display a new window showing the activation status. Since I’m using the Home edition on my laptop, it is displayed as the Core edition. If you are using the Pro version, then the change will be reflected in the window.
It is one of the simplest methods to check whether your copy of the Windows 10 operating system is activated.
Check Whether Windows 10 is Activated Using Run Command
You can also use a run command directly on the Run program to check the status of Windows 10 activation.
1. Press the Win + R buttons on your keyboard.
2. In the search box, type slmgr.vbs –xpr and hit Enter or click OK. Note that there is a space between vbs and -xpr.
Wrapping Up
If for some reason you don’t want to activate Windows, you can still remove the activation watermark from the Desktop or change the wallpaper.
Sagar Naresh
My work has been published on Android Authority, Android Police, Android Central, BGR, Gadgets360, GSMArena, and more. A Six Sigma and Google Certified Digital Marketer who is covering tech-related content for the past 2 years.
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Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow.
Are you having problems activating Windows?
Start by trying the activation troubleshooter in the Get Help app. Get Help can guide you through the correct steps to fix most activation issues.
Open Get Help
Checking your Windows activation status
You’ll first want to find out if your Windows 11 is activated and linked to your Microsoft account.
It is essential that you link your Microsoft account to the Windows 11 license on your device. Linking your Microsoft account with your digital license enables you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter whenever you make a significant hardware change.
To check activation status in Windows 11, select the Start button, and then select Settings > System and then select Activation . Your activation status will be listed next to Activation.
Check activation status in Settings
You’ll see one of these activation status messages on the Activation page:
|
Activation status |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Windows is activated |
|
|
Windows is activated with a digital license |
|
|
Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account |
|
|
Windows is not activated |
|
If you need to purchase a license for your device, see «Purchase a Windows 11 license.»
If you have purchased a license for this device already and still receive an error message, continue to Methods of activation.
To link your Microsoft account, follow these instructions:
-
Confirm that the administrator account is also your Microsoft account by checking to see if an email address is displayed above Administrator. If an email address is displayed, this is a Microsoft account. If not, you’re logged in with a local account. If you don’t yet have a Microsoft account, see How to create a new Microsoft account.
-
Once you confirm that you’re an administrator and using your Microsoft account, go back to the Activation page, select Add an account, enter your Microsoft account and password, and then select Sign in.
After your Microsoft account has been added, on the Activation page you’ll see Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.
Methods of Windows activation
Depending on how you got your copy of Windows 11, you’ll need either a digital license or a 25-character product key to activate it. Without one of these, you won’t be able to activate your device.
-
A digital license (called a digital entitlement in Windows 11) is a method of activation in Windows 11 that doesn’t require you to enter a product key.
-
A product key is a 25-character code used to activate Windows. What you’ll see is PRODUCT KEY: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX.
After determining which activation method you use, follow the steps in the corresponding Activate using a digital license or Activate using a product key.
Your activation method depends on how you got your copy of Windows 11.
|
If you got Windows 11 by… |
Activation method |
|---|---|
|
Upgrading to Windows 11 for free from an eligible device running a genuine copy of Windows 10, Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 |
Digital license If you associated or signed onto a Microsoft Account or associated your MSA with your digital license, that will be your MSA containing the digital license. |
|
Buying a Windows 11 Pro upgrade from the Microsoft Store app and successfully activated Windows 11 |
Digital license When purchasing from Microsoft Store, a confirmation email was sent to confirm the purchase. That email address (MSA) will contain the digital license. |
|
Being a Windows Insider and upgrading to the newest Windows 11 Insider Preview build on an eligible device that was running an activated earlier version of Windows 11 and Windows 11 Preview |
Digital license The email address that you used for your Windows Insider login will likely be the MSA containing your digital license. |
|
Buying genuine Windows 11 from the Microsoft Store app |
Digital license When purchasing from Microsoft Store, a confirmation email was sent to confirm the purchase. That email address (MSA) will contain the digital license. |
|
Buying a PC that came with Windows 11 |
Product key Find your product key either on the device packaging or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to your device. |
|
Buying a box copy of Windows 11 from an authorized retailer |
Product key Find your product key on a label inside the Windows 11 box. |
|
Buying a digital copy of Windows 11 from an authorized retailer |
Product key Find your product key in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows 11 or in a digital locker accessible through the retailer’s website. A digital license will be given to your device for Windows 11 based on the valid product key you entered. |
|
Having a Volume Licensing agreement for Windows 11 or MSDN subscription |
Product key Your product key is available through the web portal for your program. |
|
Buying a new or refurbished device running Windows 11 |
Product key Your product key is preinstalled on your device, included with the device packaging, or included as a card or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the device. If you bought a refurbished PC, the refurbisher, not Microsoft, must provide you a product key. |
|
Buying from the Microsoft Store online |
Product key Find your product key in the confirmation email that contains the order history. |
If you don’t have a digital license or a product key, you can purchase a Windows 11 digital license after installation finishes. Here’s how:
-
Select the Start button.
-
Select Settings > System > Activation .
-
Select Go to Store.
This opens the Microsoft Store app where you can purchase a Windows 11 digital license.
Activate Windows using a digital license
Digital licenses are associated with your hardware and linked to your Microsoft account, so there’s nothing you need to find on your PC. You’re all set once your PC is connected to the internet and you log in to your Microsoft account.
If you don’t have a digital license, you can use a product key to activate. To learn how to activate using a product key, follow the steps at Activate using a product key.
If you are installing Windows on a new device or motherboard for the first time and you do not have a product key, select I don’t have a product key during the installation setup screens. When prompted, enter the Microsoft account you want to use to purchase a digital license for this device. Once the setup screens are completed and Windows has finished installing, go to activation settings: Select the Start button, and then select Settings > System > Activation . Then select Open Store to purchase a digital license to activate Windows.
If you have a digital license for your device, you can reinstall the same edition of Windows 11 on this device without entering a product key.
Make sure that Windows 11 is activated before you try to reinstall it. To find out, select the Start button, and then select Settings > System > Activation . You’ll be able to confirm that your Windows 11 has been activated and that your Microsoft account is associated with your digital license.
Check activation status in Settings
Here are the possible messages that display on the Activation page:
|
Activation status |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Windows is activated with a digital license |
Your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license. Follow instructions for Linking your Microsoft account. |
|
Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account |
Your Microsoft account is already linked to your digital license. |
If Windows 11 isn’t activated on your device, see Get help with Windows activation errors for more info.
If your digital license is not linked to your Microsoft account, follow the steps under Checking your Activation status, Linking your Microsoft account.
Once you have your account linked, then you can run setup to reinstall Windows 11. For more info about how to create installation media to reinstall Windows 11, go to the Microsoft software download website. When creating installation media, make sure to choose the edition of Windows 11 that matches the edition already installed on your device.
During reinstallation, if you’re asked to enter a product key, you can skip this step by selecting I don’t have a product key. Windows 11 will automatically activate online after the installation is complete. If you linked your digital license with your Microsoft account, be sure to sign in to the Microsoft account that is linked to the digital license.
When you make a significant hardware change to your device, such as replacing the motherboard, Windows 11 might no longer be activated.
Make sure you associate your Microsoft account to your digital license to prepare for hardware changes. The association enables you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter if you make a significant hardware change later. For more info, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change.
Activate Windows using a product key
A product key is a 25-character code, that looks like this:
PRODUCT KEY: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
During installation, you’ll be prompted to enter a product key. Or, after installation, to enter the product key, select the Start button, and then select Settings > System > Activation > Update product key > Change product key.
Change product key in Settings
To locate your product key, see the product key table in Activation methods, What activation method do I use, a digital license or a product key?
Note: Microsoft only keeps a record of product keys if you purchased from the Microsoft online store. You can find out if you purchased from Microsoft in your Microsoft account Order history. For more help, see Find your Windows product key.
If you have a product key, then you can use Change product key to activate Windows 11 in each of the following scenarios. Below is supplemental information that might help you with activation:
You’ll need to use a valid product key to activate Windows 11 on a device that has never had an activated copy of Windows 11 on it.
You’ll also need to use a valid product key if you’re installing an edition of Windows 11 that wasn’t previously activated on the device. For example, you’ll need a valid product key to install and activate Windows 11 Pro on a device that had Windows 11 Home installed.
During the installation, you’ll be asked to enter a valid product key. After the installation is complete, Windows 11 will automatically be activated online. To check activation status in Windows 11, select the Start button, and then select Settings > System > Activation .
Check activation status in Settings
If Windows 11 isn’t activated on your device, see Get help with Windows activation errors for more info.
Note: In some cases, you might need to enter the Windows 11 product key that either came with the device packaging, was included as a card, or that appears on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the device. If you don’t have a Windows 11 product key, you’ll have the option to buy one during installation.
When you buy a refurbished device running Windows 11, you’ll need to activate Windows using the product key on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) that’s attached to your device.
If your original hardware manufacturer (OEM) changed the motherboard for you, your PC should reactivate automatically. If it doesn’t activate, your OEM might have provided a COA card with a 25-character key under a gray scratch cover. Follow these steps to get activated.:
Note: To remove the gray coating that conceals the product key, gently scratch it off using a coin or your fingernail.
-
Select the Start button, and then select Settings > System > Activation .
-
Select Change product key.
During reinstallation, you’ll be asked to enter a product key. When you type in your product key, you will have an activated edition of Windows 11.
If you finished setup and did not enter your product key, you can still enter your product key. Select the Start button, and then select Activation > Update product key > Change product key.
Change product key in Settings
When you make a significant hardware change to your device, such as replacing the motherboard, Windows 11 might no longer be activated.
If you do not reinstall Windows, then you can select the Start button, and then select Activation > Update product key > Change product key to reactivate your device. Otherwise you can enter your product key during installation of Windows.
If your original hardware manufacturer (OEM) changed the motherboard for you, your PC should reactivate automatically. If it doesn’t activate, your OEM might have provided a COA card that has a gray coating over a 25-character key. Follow these steps to get activated.
Note: To remove the gray coating that conceals the product key, gently scratch it off using a coin or your fingernail.
-
Select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation .
-
Select Change product key.
-
Type in the product key found on the COA and follow the instructions.
Change product key in Settings
For more info, see Reactivating Windows 11 after a hardware change.
Need more info?
If your license doesn’t match the Windows edition that you bought or are entitled to, Windows will not activate. Check to see which edition you purchased, Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro. To see the edition, select the Start button, then select Settings > System > Activation .
Check your Windows edition in Settings
If you purchased the edition called Windows 11 Home, you’ll need to again install Windows 11 Home. If you don’t want to continue with Windows 11 Home and would like to change editions, see Upgrade Windows 11 Home to Windows 11 Pro.
If you’re a Windows Insider and have been running Windows 11 Insider Preview builds you’ll automatically receive new builds that have been activated, provided Windows was activated on your device before upgrading to the new build.
To check activation status in Windows 11, select the Start button, and then select Settings > System > Activation .
Check activation status in Settings
If Windows 11 isn’t activated on your device, see Get help with Windows activation errors for more info.
If you’re not already part of the Windows Insider program and you’d like to join, select the Start button and then select Settings > System > Windows Insider Program > Get started.
Join Windows Insider Program
Note: If you’re reinstalling Windows 11 Insider Preview, and the same edition of Windows 11 or Windows 11 Insider Preview (builds newer than 10240) was already activated on your device, your digital license will automatically activate Windows.
Related links
How to use the PC Health Check app
Find your Windows product key
How to install or upgrade Windows using a product key
Get help with Windows activation errors
Reactivating Windows after a hardware change
Fix Bluetooth problems in Windows
Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow.
Are you having problems activating Windows?
Start by trying the activation troubleshooter in the Get Help app. Get Help can guide you through the correct steps to fix most activation issues.
Open Get Help
Checking your Windows activation status
You’ll first want to find out if your Windows 10 is activated and linked to your Microsoft account.
It is essential that you link your Microsoft account to the Windows 10 license on your device. Linking your Microsoft account with your digital license enables you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter whenever you make a significant hardware change.
To check activation status in Windows 10, select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security and then select Activation . Your activation status will be listed next to Activation.
Check activation status in Settings
You’ll see one of these activation status messages on the Activation page:
|
Activation status |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Windows is activated |
|
|
Windows is activated with a digital license |
|
|
Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account |
|
|
Windows is not activated |
|
If you need to purchase a license for your device, see «Purchase a Windows 10 license.»
If you have purchased a license for this device already and still receive an error message, continue to Methods of activation.
To link your Microsoft account, follow these instructions:
-
Confirm that the administrator account is also your Microsoft account by checking to see if an email address is displayed above Administrator. If an email address is displayed, this is a Microsoft account. If not, you’re logged in with a local account. If you don’t yet have a Microsoft account, see How to create a new Microsoft account.
-
Once you confirm that you’re an administrator and using your Microsoft account, go back to the Activation page, select Add an account, enter your Microsoft account and password, and then select Sign in.
After your Microsoft account has been added, on the Activation page you’ll see Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.
Methods of Windows activation
Depending on how you got your copy of Windows 10, you’ll need either a digital license or a 25-character product key to activate it. Without one of these, you won’t be able to activate your device.
-
A digital license (called a digital entitlement in Windows 10, Version 1511) is a method of activation in Windows 10 that doesn’t require you to enter a product key.
-
A product key is a 25-character code used to activate Windows. What you’ll see is PRODUCT KEY: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX.
After determining which activation method you use, follow the steps in the corresponding Activate using a digital license or Activate using a product key.
Your activation method depends on how you got your copy of Windows 10.
|
If you got Windows 10 by… |
Activation method |
|---|---|
|
Upgrading to Windows 10 for free from an eligible device running a genuine copy of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 |
Digital license If you associated or signed onto a Microsoft Account or associated your MSA with your digital license, that will be your MSA containing the digital license. |
|
Buying a Windows 10 Pro upgrade from the Microsoft Store app and successfully activated Windows 10 |
Digital license When purchasing from Microsoft Store, a confirmation email was sent to confirm the purchase. That email address (MSA) will contain the digital license. |
|
Being a Windows Insider and upgrading to the newest Windows 10 Insider Preview build on an eligible device that was running an activated earlier version of Windows and Windows 10 Preview |
Digital license The email address that you used for your Windows Insider login will likely be the MSA containing your digital license. |
|
Buying genuine Windows 10 from the Microsoft Store app |
Digital license When purchasing from Microsoft Store, a confirmation email was sent to confirm the purchase. That email address (MSA) will contain the digital license. |
|
Buying a PC that came with Windows 10 |
Product key Find your product key either on the device packaging or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to your device. |
|
Buying a box copy of Windows 10 from an authorized retailer |
Product key Find your product key on a label inside the Windows 10 box. |
|
Buying a digital copy of Windows 10 from an authorized retailer |
Product key Find your product key in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows 10 or in a digital locker accessible through the retailer’s website. A digital license will be given to your device for Windows 10 based on the valid product key you entered. |
|
Having a Volume Licensing agreement for Windows 10 or MSDN subscription |
Product key Your product key is available through the web portal for your program. |
|
Buying a new or refurbished device running Windows 10 |
Product key Your product key is preinstalled on your device, included with the device packaging, or included as a card or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the device. If you bought a refurbished PC, the refurbisher, not Microsoft, must provide you a product key. |
|
Buying from the Microsoft Store online |
Product key Find your product key in the confirmation email that contains the order history. |
If you don’t have a digital license or a product key, you can purchase a Windows 10 digital license after installation finishes. Here’s how:
-
Select the Start button.
-
Select Settings > Update & Security > Activation .
-
Select Go to Store.
This opens the Microsoft Store app where you can purchase a Windows 10 digital license.
Activate Windows using a digital license
Digital licenses are associated with your hardware and linked to your Microsoft account, so there’s nothing you need to find on your PC. You’re all set once your PC is connected to the internet and you log in to your Microsoft account.
If you don’t have a digital license, you can use a product key to activate. To learn how to activate using a product key, follow the steps at Activate using a product key.
If you are installing Windows on a new device or motherboard for the first time and you do not have a product key, select I don’t have a product key during the installation setup screens. When prompted, enter the Microsoft account you want to use to purchase a digital license for this device. Once the setup screens are completed and Windows has finished installing, go to activation settings: Select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation . Then select Go to the Store to purchase a digital license to activate Windows.
If you have a digital license for your device, you can reinstall the same edition of Windows 10 on this device without entering a product key.
Make sure that Windows 10 is activated before you try to reinstall it. To find out, select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation . You’ll be able to confirm that your Windows 10 has been activated and that your Microsoft account is associated with your digital license.
Check activation status in Settings
Here are the possible messages that display on the Activation page:
|
Activation status |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Windows is activated with a digital license |
Your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license. Follow instructions for Linking your Microsoft account. |
|
Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account |
Your Microsoft account is already linked to your digital license. |
If Windows 10 isn’t activated on your device, see Get help with Windows activation errors for more info.
If your digital license is not linked to your Microsoft account, follow the steps under Checking your Activation status, Linking your Microsoft account.
Once you have your account linked, then you can run setup to reinstall Windows 10. For more info about how to create installation media to reinstall Windows 10, go to the Microsoft software download website. When creating installation media, make sure to choose the edition of Windows 10 that matches the edition already installed on your device.
During reinstallation, if you’re asked to enter a product key, you can skip this step by selecting I don’t have a product key. Windows 10 will automatically activate online after the installation is complete. If you linked your digital license with your Microsoft account, be sure to sign in to the Microsoft account that is linked to the digital license.
When you make a significant hardware change to your device, such as replacing the motherboard, Windows 10 might no longer be activated.
Make sure you associate your Microsoft account to your digital license to prepare for hardware changes. The association enables you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter if you make a significant hardware change later. For more info, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change.
Activate Windows using a product key
A product key is a 25-character code, that looks like this:
PRODUCT KEY: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
During installation, you’ll be prompted to enter a product key. Or, after installation, to enter the product key, select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Update product key > Change product key.
Change product key in Settings
To locate your product key, see the product key table in Activation methods, What activation method do I use, a digital license or a product key?
Note: Microsoft only keeps a record of product keys if you purchased from the Microsoft online store. You can find out if you purchased from Microsoft in your Microsoft account Order history. For more help, see Find your Windows product key.
If you have a product key, then you can use Change product key to activate Windows 10 in each of the following scenarios. Below is supplemental information that might help you with activation:
You’ll need to use a valid product key to activate Windows 10 on a device that has never had an activated copy of Windows 10 on it.
You’ll also need to use a valid product key if you’re installing an edition of Windows 10 that wasn’t previously activated on the device. For example, you’ll need a valid product key to install and activate Windows 10 Pro on a device that had Windows 10 Home installed.
During the installation, you’ll be asked to enter a valid product key. After the installation is complete, Windows 10 will automatically be activated online. To check activation status in Windows 10, select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation .
Check activation status in Settings
If Windows 10 isn’t activated on your device, see Get help with Windows activation errors for more info.
Note: In some cases, you might need to enter the Windows 10 product key that either came with the device packaging, was included as a card, or that appears on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the device. If you don’t have a Windows 10 product key, you’ll have the option to buy one during installation.
When you buy a refurbished device running Windows 10, you’ll need to activate Windows using the product key on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) that’s attached to your device.
If your original hardware manufacturer (OEM) changed the motherboard for you, your PC should reactivate automatically. If it doesn’t activate, your OEM might have provided a COA card with a 25-character key under a gray scratch cover. Follow these steps to get activated.:
Note: To remove the gray coating that conceals the product key, gently scratch it off using a coin or your fingernail.
-
Select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation .
-
Select Change product key.
During reinstallation, you’ll be asked to enter a product key. When you type in your product key, you will have an activated edition of Windows 10.
If you finished setup and did not enter your product key, you can still enter your product key. Select the Start button, and then select Activation > Update product key > Change product key.
Change product key in Settings
When you make a significant hardware change to your device, such as replacing the motherboard, Windows 10 might no longer be activated.
If you do not reinstall Windows, then you can select the Start button, and then select Activation > Update product key > Change product key to reactivate your device. Otherwise you can enter your product key during installation of Windows.
If your original hardware manufacturer (OEM) changed the motherboard for you, your PC should reactivate automatically. If it doesn’t activate, your OEM might have provided a COA card that has a gray coating over a 25-character key. Follow these steps to get activated.
Note: To remove the gray coating that conceals the product key, gently scratch it off using a coin or your fingernail.
-
Select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation .
-
Select Change product key.
-
Type in the product key found on the COA and follow the instructions.
Change product key in Settings
For more info, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change.
Need more info?
If your license doesn’t match the Windows edition that you bought or are entitled to, Windows will not activate. Check to see which edition you purchased, Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro. To see the edition, select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation .
Check your Windows edition in Settings
If you purchased the edition called Windows 10 Home, you’ll need to again install Windows 10 Home. If you don’t want to continue with Windows 10 Home and would like to change editions, see Upgrade Windows 10 Home to Windows 10 Pro.
If you’re a Windows Insider and have been running Windows 10 Insider Preview builds you’ll automatically receive new builds that have been activated, provided Windows was activated on your device before upgrading to the new build.
To check activation status in Windows 10, select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation .
Check activation status in Settings
If Windows 10 isn’t activated on your device, see Get help with Windows activation errors for more info.
If you’re not already part of the Windows Insider program and you’d like to join, select the Start button and then select Settings > Update & Security > Windows Insider Program > Get started.
Join Windows Insider Program
Note: If you’re reinstalling Windows 10 Insider Preview, and the same edition of Windows 10 or Windows 10 Insider Preview (builds newer than 10240) was already activated on your device, your digital license will automatically activate Windows.
Related links
How to use the PC Health Check app
Find your Windows product key
How to install or upgrade Windows using a product key
Get help with Windows activation errors
Reactivating Windows after a hardware change
Fix Bluetooth problems in Windows
Windows Activation is Microsoft’s method of verifying that Windows is genuine and has been bought by the customer. While it is effective, it comes with its own problems. Generally speaking, Windows 10 can be activated using two ways:
- Using a product key
- Using a digital license
A digital license can be attached to your Microsoft ID or it can be specific to a device. In either case, you don’t need to enter a product key in order to activate Windows 10 license. It will be automatically activated.
There are times when users need to verify if their installation of Windows 10 is activated or not. In this article, we will go through three easy ways to verify that your Windows 10 license is activated properly.
So let’s begin!
Using Windows Settings (Windows 10 only)
Go to Start Menu → Settings (Windows key + X + N)
Now go to Update & Security → Activation
The right-hand pane will show you if Windows is activated. It will also tell you whether it has been activated with a product key or a digital license.
In case it is not activated, it will show up like this:
Using Control Panel (All Windows Versions)
This method can be useful if you are using older versions of Windows like Windows 8.1 or Windows 7. Since Windows 10 does not prefer the Control Panel, I will show you the shortcut steps to open the system properties instead of going through the Control Panel.
Go to Run → control system
This will open the system properties window. At the end of the window, you will see the Windows activation information. But it does not give any information about which license is activated.
Using command prompt (All Windows Versions)
- Open command prompt (Run → cmd)
- Run the following command: slmgr /xpr
This will open another dialog with Windows activation information. If Windows 10 is activated, it will show as “This machine is permanently activated”.
If it is not activated, it will show as “Windows is in notification mode”
Activating Windows 10
If your Windows 10 is not activated, this could be because of several reasons. Some of the reasons could be:
- You bought a new computer which comes pre-installed with Windows 10. Windows will need to be activated after a few days of trial.
- You reinstalled Windows 10 on the same device. If you have a digital Windows 10 license, it should get activated automatically without requiring a product key. Just connect to the Internet.
- Your hardware configuration changed (like a change of motherboard, CPU, etc.). In this case, you will need to reactivate Windows license.
Whatever the case, you can activate Windows 10 using the following steps:
- Go to Start Menu → Settings (Windows key + X + N)
- Now go to Update & Security → Activation
- On the right hand pane, click on “Change product key” under “Activate Windows now”
- Enter the 25-character product key which you purchased from Microsoft and click on Next to proceed with the activation process.
These simple check can make sure that we are using an activated version of Windows and keep us safe from issues like Windows automatically restarting, signing out or the system locking itself again and again, etc. Do comment below about your thoughts about Windows activation and how you use it.
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After upgrading to Windows 10 or after reinstalling Windows 10, you might want to check if your Windows 10 installation is activated.
Generally, Windows 10 automatically connects to Microsoft servers and activates itself after upgrading to or reinstalling Windows 10. That said, if you are not sure, you can check the activation status to make sure that the Windows 10 is activated.
After upgrading to Windows 10 or reinstalling Windows 10, you can follow the below-mentioned methods to check if your Windows 10 copy is activated.
Note that this method is useful only to check the activation status of Windows 10, which means this will not confirm that the Windows 10 copy in question is genuine.
Check Windows 10 activation status
Method 1
Step 1: On Windows 10, click the Start button and then click or tap the Settings app icon on the left side of the Start menu to open the same.
Alternatively, you can quickly open the Settings app using Windows + I keyboard shortcut.
Step 2: Once the Settings app is launched, navigate to Update & Security > Activation page.
Step 3: Now, on the right side, you can see your edition of Windows 10 and the activation status of your Windows 10. If your Windows 10 license is linked to Microsoft account, you will see “Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account” message. And if you are on a local account, you will see “Windows is activated with a digital license” message instead.
On the same page, you can also find an option to change the Windows 10 product key.
NOTE: If you are getting any error message indicating that Windows 10 is not activated, refer to our know why Windows 10 is not activated guide for all activation error messages and solutions.
Method 2
Step 1: Open System window using Windows + Pause/Break keyboard shortcut.
Or, open File Explorer (Windows Explorer), in the left pane, right-click on This PC icon, and then click Properties option to open the same.
Step 2: Here, scroll down to see the Windows Activation section.
Step 3: If your copy of Windows 10 is activated, you will see Windows is activated message.
Method 3
Using Command Prompt to check Windows 10 activation status
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt by typing CMD in the Start/taskbar search field and then hitting the Enter key. No need to launch the Command Prompt with admin rights.
Step 2: At the Command Prompt window, type the following command and then press the Enter key.
slmgr /xpr
Once you press the Enter key, you will get a dialog showing your Windows 10 edition and activation status.
Good luck!
Always use a genuine copy of Windows 10!
В этой статье мы рассмотрим, как узнать активирована ли копия Windows на вашем компьютере, и получить статус активации Windows со всех компьютеров в вашей сети с помощью PowerShell.
Содержание:
- Как узнать, активирована ли Windows на компьютере?
- Получаем статус активации Windows в домене AD с помощью PowerShell
Как узнать, активирована ли Windows на компьютере?
Сначала рассмотрим, как узнать статус активации Windows на вашем компьютере. В современных билдах Windows 10 и Windows 11 информацию об активации Windows можно получить их приложения Параметры (Settings).
- В Windows 10 и Windows Server 2022/2019 перейдите в Settings -> Update & Security -> Activation (или выполните команду
ms-settings:activation
для быстрого доступа к нужному разделу ms-settings); - В Windows 11: Settings -> System -> Activation
На данный момент Microsoft предлагает всем пользователям бесплатно обновиться с последних билдов Windows 10 до Windows 11. Если в вашем аккаунте Microsoft зарегистрирован компьютер с цифровой лицензией Window 10, то после апгрейда до Windows 11 компьютер должен автоматически проверить цифровую лицензию и активировать Windows. Обратите внимание на особенности переактивации Windows после замена части железа компьютера или переустановки.
Возможны следующие значения в статусе активации:
Можно получить статус активации Windows из команды строки. Для этого используется скрипт SLMgr.vbs, который используется для управления лицензиями и активацией Windows. Откройте командную строку (
cmd
) с правами администратора и выполните команду:
slmgr /xpr
Через несколько секунд появится окно с текстом “The machine is permanently activated”.
Если Windows не активирована, появится сообщение
Windows is in Notification mode
.
Совет. Если информацию о статусе активации нужно вывести в консоль командной строки, воспользуйтесь такой командой:
cscript slmgr.vbs -xpr
Для получения информации об активации Windows на локальном или удаленном компьютере можно использовать PowerShell. Выполните следующую команду для получения данных из CIM (WMI):
Get-CimInstance SoftwareLicensingProduct -Filter "Name like 'Windows%'" | where { $_.PartialProductKey } | select Description, LicenseStatus
Возможные значения параметра LicenseStatus:
- 0 — Unlicensed
- 1 — Licensed
- 2 — OOBGrace
- 3 – OOTGrace – конфигурация компьютера изменена, и он не может активироваться автоматически, или прошло более 180 дней
- 4 — NonGenuineGrace
- 5 – Notification – срок ознакомительного использования Windows окончен
- 6 – ExtendedGrace (срок использования ознакомительной версии Windows можно продлить несколько раз с помощью команды slmgr /rearm или конвертировать в полноценную)
На скриншоте видно значение
LicenseStatus = 1
, это значит, что Windows активирована ретейл ключом (Windows(R) Operating System, RETAIL channel).
Чтобы получить статус активации с удаленного компьютера, укажите его имя в параметре ComputerName:
Get-CimInstance SoftwareLicensingProduct -Filter "Name like 'Windows%'" -ComputerName msk-srv01 |where { $_.PartialProductKey } | select Description, LicenseStatus
Строка
VOLUME_KMSCLIENT channel
говорит о том, что компьютер активирован на KMS сервере.
Получаем статус активации Windows в домене AD с помощью PowerShell
Вы можете использовать PowerShell для удаленного сбора статуса об активации десктопных редакций Windows и Windows Server в домене Active Directory. Ниже представлен готовый пример такого скрипта.
Для получения списка компьютер в домене используется командлет Get-ADComputer из модуля Active Directory PowerShell. Данный PowerShell скрипт последовательно проверяет доступность каждого компьютера из Active Directory (простая проверка ICMP ping с помощью Test-NetConnection), получает версию и билд ОС и статус активации Windows.
enum Licensestatus{
Unlicensed = 0
Licensed = 1
Out_Of_Box_Grace_Period = 2
Out_Of_Tolerance_Grace_Period = 3
Non_Genuine_Grace_Period = 4
Notification = 5
Extended_Grace = 6
}
$Report = @()
$complist = Get-ADComputer -Filter {enabled -eq "true" -and OperatingSystem -Like '*Windows*'}
Foreach ($comp in $complist) {
If ((Test-NetConnection $comp.name -WarningAction SilentlyContinue).PingSucceeded -eq $true){
$activation_status= Get-CimInstance -ClassName SoftwareLicensingProduct -ComputerName $comp.name -Filter "Name like 'Windows%'" |where { $_.PartialProductKey } | select PSComputerName, @{N=’LicenseStatus’; E={[LicenseStatus]$_.LicenseStatus}}
$windowsversion= Get-CimInstance -ClassName Win32_OperatingSystem -ComputerName $comp.name| select Caption, Version
$objReport = [PSCustomObject]@{
ComputerName = $activation_status.PSComputerName
LicenseStatus= $activation_status.LicenseStatus
Version = $windowsversion.caption
Build = $windowsversion.Version
}
}
else {
$objReport = [PSCustomObject]@{
ComputerName = $comp.name
LicenseStatus = "Offline"
}
}
$Report += $objReport
}
$Report |Out-GridView
Информация по статусу активации Windows на компьютерах домена предоставлена в виде таблицы Out-Gridview. Либо вы можете экспортировать ее в CSV файл (
Export-Csv -Path .win_activation_report.csv -NoTypeInformation
).
Таким образом вы можете быстро найти все неактивированные (нелицензированные) копии Windows в вашем домене.
To check activation status in Windows 10, select the Start button, and then select Settings > Update & Security and then select Activation . Your activation status will be listed next to Activation. You are activated.
Contents
- 1 How do I know if my Windows is activated or genuine?
- 2 How do I find my Windows 10 license key?
- 3 Is Windows 10 activation lifetime?
- 4 How can I tell if Windows is activated through CMD?
- 5 How do I activate Windows 10 without a product key?
- 6 What happens if Windows 10 is not activated?
- 7 Will there be a Windows 11?
- 8 What is the validity of Windows 10 license?
- 9 How do you check if Windows 10 is installed correctly?
- 10 How do I activate Windows license?
- 11 Is it legal to use unactivated Windows 10?
- 12 Is Windows 10 activation free?
- 13 Is there a Windows 12?
- 14 Is Windows 10 or 11 better?
- 15 What’s so special about Windows 11?
- 16 Is Windows 10 Pro free forever?
- 17 How long does a Windows activation last?
- 18 Do I have 1909?
- 19 How do I check for Windows 10 update?
- 20 How do I know if I have Windows 10 2004?
How do I know if my Windows is activated or genuine?
if you want to know if your windows 10 is genuine:
- Click on the magnifying glass(Search) icon located in the bottom left corner of the taskbar, and search for: “Settings”.
- Click on the “activation” Section.
- if your windows 10 is genuine, it will say: “Windows is activated”, and give you the product ID.
How do I find my Windows 10 license key?
Find Windows 10 Product Key on a New Computer
- Press Windows key + X.
- Click Command Prompt (Admin)
- At the command prompt, type: wmic path SoftwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKey. This will reveal the product key. Volume License Product Key Activation.
Is Windows 10 activation lifetime?
A:Lifetime license.. Retail Version.. Keys works even after motherboard changed or upgraded to new PC..
How can I tell if Windows is activated through CMD?
Launch the Command Prompt or PowerShell and type the command “slmgr /xpr.” Press Enter and you should see a prompt saying whether your Windows machine is activated or not. Click or tap OK, and you are done.
How do I activate Windows 10 without a product key?
Open the Settings app and head to Update & Security > Activation. You’ll see a “Go to Store” button that will take you to the Windows Store if Windows isn’t licensed. In the Store, you can purchase an official Windows license that will activate your PC.
What happens if Windows 10 is not activated?
When it comes to functionality, you won’t be able to personalize the desktop background, window title bar, taskbar, and Start color, change the theme, customize Start, taskbar, and lock screen etc.. when not activating Windows. Additionally, you might periodically get messages asking to activate your copy of Windows.
Will there be a Windows 11?
Windows 11 is here, and if you own a PC, you might be wondering whether it’s time to upgrade your operating system. After all, you are likely to get this new software free. Microsoft first revealed its new operating system in June, its first major software upgrade in six years.
What is the validity of Windows 10 license?
MICROSOFT Windows 10 Home Edition Windows 10 Home Full Retail Key 32 OR 64 BIT FOR 1 USER (VALIDITY LIFETIME) Windows 10 is familiar and easy to use, with lots of similarities to Windows 7 including the Start menu.
How do you check if Windows 10 is installed correctly?
To run it, follow these steps:
- Make sure you’ve installed the latest updates for Windows, and then restart your machine.
- In the search box on the taskbar, type Command Prompt, and right-click or press and hold Command Prompt (Desktop app) from the list of results.
How do I activate Windows license?
- For installation of Windows 10, enter your product licence key.
- Press the Windows key, go to Settings > Update and Security > Activation.
- Press the Change Product key.
- Enter your product key into pop-up box and press Next.
- Press Activate.
Is it legal to use unactivated Windows 10?
Yes it is legal to use, but don’t save any critical data in it. The “free” Win-10 is not a full functioning copy, will not update Windows Defender and may at some point shut down. It is intended to show that it is capable of running in your hardware before spending the money on an activation key.
Is Windows 10 activation free?
In fact, it is totally free to activate windows 10 using this method and you do not require any product key or activation key. It works for any Windows 10 Edition including:Windows 10 Enterprise.
Is there a Windows 12?
Microsoft will release a new Windows 12 in 2021 with many new features.There are several ways that you can use if you want to use the latest version of Windows 12. The first way as usual is where you can update from Windows, whether it’s through Windows Update or using an ISO file Windows 12.
Is Windows 10 or 11 better?
Start Menu and Taskbar
In Windows 11, Microsoft centers the Taskbar and the Start Menu on the screen.If you really want to see information in your Start Menu at a glance, then Windows 10 is best. As for the Taskbar, note that there are some big changes in Windows 11 when compared to Windows 10.
What’s so special about Windows 11?
Windows 11 features a new design with a centered Start menu and Taskbar. Windows 11 brings a brand-new, more Mac-like interface to the OS. It features a clean design with rounded corners and pastel shades. The iconic Start menu also moves to the center of the screen along with the Taskbar.
Is Windows 10 Pro free forever?
‘Upgrade to Windows 10 within the first year and it is yours free, forever. No subscriptions, no additional costs.
How long does a Windows activation last?
Users can utilize an unactivated Windows 10 without any restrictions for one month after installing it. However, that only means the user restrictions come into effect after one month. Thereafter, users will see some Activate Windows now notifications.
Do I have 1909?
Once you’re in the “About” page, under “Version”, you should see the 1909 number, and under “OS Build”, the number should be 18363.449 or later.
How do I check for Windows 10 update?
Head to System > About in the Settings window, and then scroll down toward the bottom to the “Windows Specifications” section. A version number of “21H2” indicates you’re using the November 2021 Update. This is the latest version. If you see a lower version number, you’re using an older version.
How do I know if I have Windows 10 2004?
Checking version 2004 using Settings
- Open Settings.
- Click on System.
- Click on About. About settings confirm Windows 10 version 2004.