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.
When installing Windows 11, the digital license associates itself with your device's hardware. If you make significant hardware changes on your device, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows will no longer find a license that matches your device, and you’ll need to reactivate Windows to get it up and running.
To activate Windows, you'll need either a digital license or a product key. To find out which you need, see "What activation method do I use, product key or digital license?" in Activate Windows. Then, use the following info to help you successfully prepare for a hardware change and swiftshader 6.0 free download full version Windows.
Prepare your Windows 11 device for a hardware change
First, windows 10 how to activate, follow these steps to find out if Windows 11 is already activated.
Select the Start button, then select Settings > System > Activation .
Open Activation settings
If you're not activated, complete the activation process with the steps you see on the Activation page. If you experience an error while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors.
Once you've confirmed that Windows 11 is activated, follow these steps:
In Windows 11, it is essential that you link your Microsoft account with the Windows 11 digital license on your device. Linking your Microsoft account with your digital license allows you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter whenever you make a significant hardware change.
First, you'll need to find out if your Microsoft account (What is a Microsoft account?) is linked to your Windows 11 digital license. To find out, select the Start button, then select Settings > System and then select Activation . The activation status message will tell you if your account is linked.
Open Activation settings
Activation status | Description |
|---|---|
Windows is activated with a digital license | This means that your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license. Follow instructions for Add an account. |
Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account | This means that your Microsoft account is already linked to your digital license. No further action is required. You are ready to use the activation troubleshooter. |
If your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license, follow these steps to Add an account:
Sign in as an administrator to add your Microsoft account. To confirm that you're using an administrator account, select the Start button, then select Settings > Accounts > Your info . Under your name, you’ll see Administrator. If you’re not an administrator, see Create a local user or administrator account.
Go to Your info in SettingsConfirm that the administrator account is also your Microsoft account Smart Defrag 6.1 Latest Version 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 using 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, windows 10 how to activate, go back to the Activation page, select Add an account, enter your Microsoft account and password, then select Sign in.
After your Microsoft account has been added, the message on the Activation page will change to: Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.
Make sure that the edition, Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro, is the same before and after your hardware change. Your digital license and product key will reactivate only if the edition remains the same.
You can see your edition on the same Activation page where you checked your activation status. To see which edition you have, select the Start button, then select Settings > System > Activation .
See your edition of Windows
If you used a product key to get to Windows 11, then you’ll need that key again after the hardware change. To find out how to locate your key, see Find your Windows product key.
For more info about product keys and digital licenses, see Activate Windows.
Reactivate Windows 11 after a hardware change
When you're ready to reactivate, make sure that your device is connected to the internet and then follow the steps for either a digital license or product key.
You’ll need to first add your Microsoft account and link your account to the digital license on your device. After linking your Microsoft account, windows 10 how to activate, run the Activation troubleshooter to reactivate Windows
This troubleshooter will only be available if your copy of Windows 11 isn’t activated.
To use the Activation troubleshooter:
Sign in as an administrator. For more info, see Create a local user or administrator account in Windows.
Select the Start button, then select Settings > System > Activation > Troubleshoot . The troubleshooter will show Windows can’t be activated on your device.
Open Activation settings
Select I changed hardware on this device recently, then select Next.
Enter your connected Microsoft account and password, then select Sign in. The troubleshooter will only work with the connected Microsoft account.
From the list of devices that are linked to your Microsoft account, select the check box next to This is the device I’m using right now.
Select Activate.
If you don’t see the device you’re using in the list of results, make sure that you signed in using the same Microsoft account you associated with the Windows 11 digital license on your device.
If you continue to experience errors while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors and locate the error you're getting.
If you didn’t link your Microsoft account to the digital license before the hardware change AND you used a product key to upgrade to Windows 11, then continue to next section.
If Windows 11 wasn't pre-installed on your device when purchased and you used a product key to upgrade to Windows 11, then you'll need that same product key after windows 10 how to activate hardware change.
Select the Start button, then select Settings > Update windows 10 how to activate Security > Activation > Change Product Key, then enter the product key.
Enter your product key in Settings
If you installed a retail copy of Windows 11 on your device using a Windows 11 product key and then made hardware changes, follow this same process using your Windows 11 product key.
If you continue to experience errors while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors and locate the error you're getting.
If you don't have a digital license or product key
If you don't have a product key or digital license, you can purchase a Windows 11 digital license after installation finishes. Follow these steps to make a purchase:
Select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation . Then select Go to Store to go to the Microsoft Store app where you can purchase a Windows 11 digital license.
Go to Store
Need more help?
If you need additional help reactivating Windows on your device, windows 10 how to activate, contact customer support.
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.
When installing Windows 10, the digital license associates itself with your device's hardware. If you make significant hardware changes on your device, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows will no longer find a license that matches your device, and you’ll need to reactivate Windows to get it up and running.
To activate Windows, you'll need either a digital license or a product key. To find out which you need, see "What activation method do I use, product key or digital license?" in Activate Windows. Then, use the following info to help you successfully prepare for a hardware change and reactivate Windows
Prepare your Windows 10 device for a hardware change
First, follow these steps to find out if Windows 10 is already activated.
Select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation .
Open Activation settings
If you're not activated, complete the activation process with the steps you see on the Activation page. If you experience an error while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors.
Once you've confirmed that Windows 10 is activated, follow these steps:
In Windows 10 (version or later), it is essential that you link your Microsoft account with the Windows 10 digital license on your device. Linking your Microsoft account with your digital license allows you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter whenever you make a significant hardware change.
First, you'll need to find out if your Microsoft account (What is a Microsoft account?) is linked to your Windows 10 digital license. To find out, windows 10 how to activate, select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security and then select Activation . The activation status message will tell you if your account is linked.
Open Activation settings
Activation status | Description |
|---|---|
Windows is activated with a digital license | This means that your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license. Follow instructions for Add an account. |
Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account | This means that your Microsoft account is already linked to your digital license. No further action is required. You are ready to use the activation troubleshooter. |
If your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license, follow these steps to Add an account:
Sign in as an administrator to add your Microsoft account. To confirm that you're using an administrator account, select the Start button, then select Settings > Accounts > Your info . Under your name, you’ll see Administrator. If you’re not an administrator, see Create a local user or administrator account.
Go to Your info in SettingsConfirm 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, windows 10 how to activate. If not, you’re logged in using 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, then select Sign in.
After your Microsoft account has been added, the message on the Activation windows 10 how to activate will change to: Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.
Make sure that the edition, Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro, is the same before and after your hardware change. Your digital license and product key will reactivate only if the edition remains the same.
You can see your edition on the same Activation page where you checked your activation status. To see which edition you have, select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation .
See your edition of Windows
If you used a product key to get to Windows 10, then you’ll need that key again after the hardware change. To find out how to locate your key, see Find your Windows product key.
For more info about product keys and digital licenses, see Activate Windows.
Reactivate Windows 10 after a hardware change
When you're ready to reactivate, make sure that your device is connected to the internet and then follow the steps for either a digital license or product key.
You’ll need to first add your Microsoft account and link your account to the digital license on your device. After linking your Microsoft account, windows 10 how to activate the Activation troubleshooter to reactivate Windows
This troubleshooter will only be available if your copy of Windows 10 (version or later) isn’t activated.
To use the Activation troubleshooter:
Sign in as an administrator. For more info, see Create a local user or administrator account in Windows
Select the Start button, then select Settings windows 10 how to activate Update & Security > Activation > Troubleshoot , windows 10 how to activate. The troubleshooter will show Windows can’t be activated on your device.
Open Activation settings
Select I changed hardware on this device recently, then select Next.
Enter your connected Microsoft account and password, then select Sign in. The troubleshooter will only work with the connected Microsoft account.
From the list of devices that are linked to your Microsoft account, select the check box next to This is the device I’m using right now.
Select Activate.
If you don’t see the device you’re using in the list of results, make sure that you signed in using the same Microsoft account you associated with the Windows 10 digital license on your device.
If you continue to experience errors while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors and locate the error you're getting.
If you didn’t link your Microsoft account to the digital license before the hardware change AND you used a product key to upgrade to Windows 10, then continue to next section.
If Windows 10 wasn't pre-installed on your device when purchased and you used a product key to upgrade to Windows 10, then you'll need that same product key after the hardware change.
Select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Change Product Key, then enter the product key.
Enter your product key in Settings
If you installed a retail copy of Windows 10 on your windows 10 how to activate using a Windows 10 product key and then made hardware changes, follow this same process using your Windows 10 product key.
If you continue to experience errors while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors and locate the error you're getting.
If you don't have a digital license or product key
If you don't have a product key or digital license, you can purchase a Windows 10 digital license after installation finishes. Follow these steps to make a purchase:
Select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > Activation . Then select Go to Store to go to the Microsoft Store app where you can purchase a Windows 10 digital license.
Go to Store
Need more help?
If you need additional help reactivating Windows on your device, contact customer support.
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. There are three methods to which you can activate your product: Online via the internet, by telephone using our automated systems, and by a live support advocate.
Online: When you begin activation, Windows will try to use your internet connection to activate online. If you have problems activating online or don't have an internet connection, you can activate by phone. Follow the “Activate using an Internet Connection” method below to attempt via the internet.
Automated System & Live Support Windows 10 how to activate To get the telephone number for activation support, follow the “Activate by Phone” method below. You will get the option to activate your device over the phone, windows 10 how to activate. Please attempt to activate using this method and if you're not able to complete activation successfully, you will be connected to Microsoft support for your region and country.
To activate Windows 11 using an internet connection:
As Windows 11 will automatically activate if you are connected to the internet, you can confirm your activation status by selecting Start > Settings > System > Activation and looking under Windows.
If online activation fails, first try the activation troubleshooting in Activate Windows.
To activate Windows 11 by phone:
Select Start > Settings > System > Activation.
Under Activate Windows Now section, select Activate by Phone.
To activate Windows 10 using an internet connection:
As Windows 10 will automatically activate if you are connected to the internet, you can confirm your activation status by selecting Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation and looking under Windows.
If online activation fails, first try the activation troubleshooting in Activate Windows
To activate Windows 10 by phone:
Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
Under Activate Windows Now section, select Activate by Phone.
Select your location (or the location nearest to you) from the drop-down list, and then select Next.
Call one of the available phone numbers listed. An automated system will guide you through the activation process.
If you're not able to complete activation successfully, you will be connected to Microsoft support for your region and country.
Or, windows 10 how to activate, if you do not have the Activate by Phone option:
Press Windows logo key + R, type slui 4 in the Open box, and select OK.
Select your location (or the location nearest to you) from the drop-down list, and then select Next.
Call one of the available phone numbers listed. An automated system will guide you through the activation process.
If you're not able to complete activation successfully, you will be connected to Microsoft support for your region and country.
Support for Windows will end on January 10,
Thank you for your loyalty. We want to help you prepare and recommend you move to a Windows 11 PC to stay supported and secure.
Learn more
When you begin activation, Windows will try to use your internet connection to activate online. If you have problems activating online or don't have an internet connection, you can activate by phone.
To activate Windows using an internet connection:
Select the Start buttontype PC settings, windows 10 how to activate, and then select PC settings from the list of results.
Choose Activate Windows.
Enter your Windows product key, select Next, and follow the instructions.
To activate Windows by phone:
Select the Start buttonenter PC settings, and then select Windows 10 how to activate settings from the list of results.
Select Activate Windows, and then select Contact customer support for help.
You may be asked for an admin password or to confirm your choice.
Select your location (or the location nearest to you) from the drop-down list, and then select Next.
Call one of the available phone numbers listed. An automated system will guide you through the activation process.
If you're experiencing activation issues, see Why can't I activate Windows and Get help with Windows activation errors.
Support for Windows 7 ended on January 14,
We recommend you move to a Windows 11 PC to continue to receive security updates from Microsoft.
Learn more
To activate Windows 7 using an internet connection:
Select the Start button
If Windows detects windows 10 how to activate internet connection, select Activate Windows online now.
Enter your Windows 7 product key when prompted, windows 10 how to activate, select Next, and then follow the instructions.
To activate Windows 7 by phone:
Select the Start button
Choose Show me other ways to activate.
Enter your Windows 7 product key, and then select Next.
Select Use the automated phone system.
Select your location (or the location nearest to you) from the drop-down list, and then select Next.
Call one of the available phone numbers listed. An automated system will guide you through the activation process.
If you're experiencing activation issues, see Why can't I activate Windows and Get help with Windows activation errors.
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, windows 10 how to activate. This article will help you troubleshoot and fix common activation errors in Windows.
For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key. For troubleshooting and other info about updating Windows 11, see Windows Update: FAQ or Troubleshoot problems updating Windows. For info on upgrading to Windows 11, see Upgrade to Windows: FAQ.
If you're having trouble activating Windows 11, windows 10 how to activate, follow these steps to fix activation errors:
Confirm that your device is up to date and running Windows In the search box on the taskbar, type winver, and then select Winver from the list of results. You'll see the version and build of Windows.
Not running Windows 11? Learn how to update your device at update Windows.Use the Activation troubleshooter to resolve simple errors. For more info, see Try the Activation troubleshooter below.
If you're still getting an error, check the list of error codes below and follow the suggested steps to resolve it.
Make sure the error hasn't changed. Sometimes when you run the Activation troubleshooter or try to activate, the error code and message will change. If the error code has changed, look up the new code below and follow the recommended steps. (If you're getting an error code that isn't listed on this page, contact customer support.)
Not running Windows 11 yet? See Activate Windows or Activate Windows 7 or Windows
Try the Activation troubleshooter
If you're running Windows 11, the Activation troubleshooter might help reactivate Windows if you recently made a significant hardware change (such as replacing the motherboard) or reinstalled Windows.
You must be an administrator to use this option. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.
Fix common errors
The following are WavePad Sound Editor Crack 13.03 + Registration [Latest] Free Download of the most common activation errors with possible solutions for Windows If you're getting an error code that isn't listed on this page, contact customer support.
If you upgraded to Windows 11 for free and your device isn’t activated, make sure you’re running the latest version of Windows This version includes improvements to activation and troubleshooting activation errors. For more info about how to keep Windows up to date, see Windows Update: FAQ.
Error | What it means and how to fix it |
|---|---|
Windows reported that the hardware of your device has changed. 0xCF | A Windows license is associated with your device hardware. If you make significant hardware changes, such as replacing your motherboard, windows 10 how to activate, Windows won’t be able to find a matching license the next time you start your device. If Windows was preinstalled on the windows 10 how to activate and you have made a change such as replacing the motherboard, you'll need a new license. To purchase a new Windows license, Start > Settings > System > Activation , and then select Go to Microsoft Store. If you have a Windows product key you used on your device before the hardware change, enter it by selecting Start > Settings > System > Activation, and then selecting Change product key. Additionally, Microsoft provides an exception path for transferring a Windows License after a hardware change. You’ll need to be signed in to the same Microsoft account before making the hardware change and to use the exception path. To access this exception path, select Start > Settings > System > Activation, and then select Troubleshoot. If the troubleshooter can’t resolve the issue, you’ll see a link to reactivate after a hardware change. Select it to follow this path. For more info, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change. |
The product key used on this device didn't work windows 10 how to activate this edition of Windows. You might need to get in touch with the store or company you bought Windows from, enter a different product key, or go to the Store to buy genuine Windows. 0xCF | When you reinstall Windows 11 using a digital license, you’re asked to choose which edition to install. If you choose an edition other than the one you’re licensed to use, you may receive this error. If you think you installed the wrong edition, select windows 10 how to activate > Settings > System > Activation, and then select Troubleshoot. If the troubleshooter detects a valid Windows 11 digital license for an edition not currently installed, it will let you know and show you how to install the correct edition. |
Windows reported that no product key was found on your device. 0xCF | A Windows license is associated with your device hardware. If you make significant hardware changes, windows 10 how to activate, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows won’t be able to find a matching license the next time you start your device. If Windows was preinstalled on the device and you have made a change such as replacing the motherboard, you'll need a new license. To purchase a new Windows license, select Start > Settings > System > Activation , windows 10 how to activate, and then select Go to Microsoft Store. If you have a Windows product key you used on your device before the hardware change, enter it by selecting Start > Settings > System > Activation, and then selecting Change product key. In addition, Microsoft provides an exception path for transferring a Windows License after a hardware change. You’ll need to be signed in to the same Microsoft account before making the hardware change and to use the exception path. To access this exception path, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation, and then select Troubleshoot. If the troubleshooter can’t resolve the issue, you’ll see a link to reactivate after a hardware change. Select it to follow this path. For more info, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change. |
"Your Windows License Will Expire Soon" warning | This may occur if you have a volume license client installed. Windows 11 Pro volume license clients are used by large organizations that deploy Windows 11 to hundreds or thousands of computers. In this situation, activation is typically managed by your organization, and you'll need to contact your system administrator for assistance, windows 10 how to activate. For more info, see Troubleshooting Windows license expiration issues. |
0xf | If you see error code 0xF, it means that a valid Windows 11 license couldn’t be found to activate Windows on your device. Here's how to activate Windows:
Note: Your product key should be in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows, included with the packaging that came with your device, or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the back or bottom of your device. For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key. For more info on how to troubleshoot error code 0xF, see Fix Windows activation error 0xF |
0xcF | This error means we didn’t find a valid Windows license for your device. You must use a valid product key to activate Windows. Your product key should be in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows, included with the packaging that came with your device, windows 10 how to activate on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the back or bottom of your device. For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key. If you have a valid product key, use it to activate Windows:
If you've made a major change to your device's hardware, such as a motherboard replacement, run the Windows Activation troubleshooter located on the activation settings page. Note that you might be asked to go through the reactivation process. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter. |
0xCC, 0xCC4A2, 0xCC4A2, 0xFAL, 0xCC, 0xCC, 0xCF, 0xCC, 0xCF, 0xCC00F, 0xCC, 0xCC00E, 0xCC4A4, 0xCC4A5, 0xCB, 0xCF, 0xCF | Reasons why you might see these errors:
|
0xCC | You may see this error because the Windows 11 product key you entered isn’t valid. Product keys are unique—assigned to a specific user to install on a single device. If a key was used (or attempted to be used) on multiple devices, it’s marked as not valid. To activate Windows, you’ll need to provide a different Windows key unique to your device. If you bought a device from a reseller of Windows 11 and expected the key to be valid, contact the reseller. If your device was purchased with Windows 11 preinstalled and you received this activation error upon turning it on for the first time, contact your device manufacturer. If your experience with your device is different from those listed above, try the following:
|
0xCF | You might see this error if you entered an invalid product key or a product key for a different version of Windows. Enter a valid product key that matches the version and edition of Windows 11 installed on your device. If Windows is installed on a device that connects to a Key Management Service (KMS) server, contact your organization's support person for more info about how to activate Windows. |
0xCF | You might see this error if you entered a product key for a different edition of Windows than the edition installed on your device. You might also see this error if you previously upgraded to Windows 11, but the current edition of Windows installed on your device doesn't windows 10 how to activate the edition of your digital license. You can either enter a valid product key that matches the edition of Windows installed on your device or reinstall the edition of Windows 11 that matches your digital license. If your device is running Windows 11 (Version or later), the Activation troubleshooter can help you install the correct edition of Windows on your device. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter. |
0xCE, 0xCF | You might see this error if you entered a product key for a different version or edition of Windows. For example, a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows 11can't be used to activate Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Core editions. Enter a product key that matches the version and edition of Windows installed on your device or buy a new copy of Windows from the Microsoft Store. |
0xCFC03 | You might see this error if you're not connected to the internet or your firewall settings are preventing Windows from completing the activation process online. Make sure that you're connected to the internet and your firewall isn't blocking Windows from activating. If you're still having problems, try to activate Windows by phone. In the search box on the taskbar, type SLUI 04, select SLUI 04 from the list of results, and then follow the instructions on the screen to activate Windows. |
0xCE | You might see this error if you try to activate a device that is already in the process of activation. Your device should be activated after the first request is completed. |
0xC | You might see this error if you’re not connected to the internet or the activation server is temporarily unavailable. Make sure that you're connected to the internet and your firewall isn't blocking Windows windows 10 how to activate activating. |
0xD, 0xC, 0xcC, 0xCC, 0xCC | If the activation server is temporarily unavailable, your copy of Windows will automatically be activated when the service comes back online. |
0xCC, windows 10 how to activate, 0xCC, 0xFA | You might see this error if the product key has already been used on another device, or it's being used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. To fix the problem, buy a product key for each one of your devices to activate Windows on them. If you’re using Windows 11, you can buy Windows from the Microsoft Store:
Notes:
|
0xCF00F | You might see this error if you entered a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows to activate Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro. Enter a product key that matches the edition of Windows on your device. |
0xCC | This error occurs when a Volume License (a license that was bought from Microsoft by an organization to install Windows on multiple devices) was used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. To fix the problem, you might need to use a different product key to activate Windows on your device. Contact your organization's support person for more info. |
0xB, 0xCF, 0xCF, 0xB |
|
0xF8F | You might see this error if the date and time for the device is incorrect, or Windows has trouble connecting to the online activation service and can't verify your product key. To verify the date and time, select Start > Settings > Time & language > Date & time. To check your internet connection:
If the network troubleshooter didn't find any problems with your network connection, try restarting your device to see if that fixes the problem. |
0xCE | You might see this error after installing third-party software that changed system files. Windows activation needs certain system files to complete activation. You can try to restore the system files back to an earlier point in time. This removes any software you installed after that point in time without affecting your personal files. For more info, see the section about how to restore from a system restore point in Recovery options in Windows. |
0x | Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation , and then select Troubleshoot to run the Activation troubleshooter. For more info about the troubleshooter, see Using the Activation troubleshooter. Open Activation settings If this doesn't work, you might need to reset your device. For more info, see the section in Recovery options in Windows. |
0x87e10bc6 | An error occurred with our activation server or licensing service. Please wait a few minutes and then try the following Windows 11 Pro License Recovery steps: Select Start > Settings > System > Activation , and then select Troubleshoot to run the Activation troubleshooter. When the troubleshooter is complete, select Go to Microsoft Store to launch the Microsoft Store app. If the Microsoft Store app shows there was a problem, select Try again. After a few minutes, you should see a message that thanking you for activating genuine Windows, followed by another message showing that Windows was activated. For more info about the troubleshooter, see Using the Activation troubleshooter. |
0x | This error can occur if the update components are missing or corrupted on the computer. This error might also occur due to poor network connectivity received by the system. Use the Windows update troubleshooter to check for the corrupted or missing updates or components. Running the troubleshooter will help find and in some cases fix the issue. Also, check the strength of your internet connection. |
All other error codes | Go to Windows Help, enter the error code in the Search for Help box at the top-right, and run the search. Browse through the search results carefully to make sure you try only those that apply to your situation. |
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. This article will help you troubleshoot and fix common activation errors in Windows.
For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key. For troubleshooting and other info about updating Windows 10, see Windows Update: FAQ or Troubleshoot problems updating Windows. For info on upgrading to Windows 10, see Upgrade to Windows: FAQ.
If you're having trouble activating Windows 10, follow these steps to fix activation errors:
Confirm that your device is up to date and running Windows 10, version or later. In the search box on the taskbar, type winver, and then select Winver from the list of results. You'll see the version and build of Windows.
Not running Windows 10, version or later? Learn how to update your device at update WindowsUse the Activation troubleshooter to resolve simple errors. For more info, see Try the Activation troubleshooter below.
If you're still getting an error, check the list of error codes below and follow the suggested steps to resolve it.
Make sure the error hasn't changed. Sometimes when you run the Activation troubleshooter or try to activate, the error code and message will change. If the error code has changed, look up the new code below and follow the recommended steps. (If you're getting an error code that isn't listed on this page, contact customer support.)
Not running Windows 10 yet? See Activate Windows 7 or Windows
Try the Activation troubleshooter
If you're running Windows 10, windows 10 how to activate, version or later, the Activation troubleshooter might help reactivate Windows if you recently made a significant hardware change (such as replacing the motherboard) or reinstalled Windows.
You must be an administrator to use this option. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter.
Fix common errors
The following are some of the most common activation errors with possible solutions for Windows If you're getting an error code that isn't listed on this page, contact customer support.
If you upgraded to Windows 10 for free and your device isn’t activated, make sure you’re running the latest version of Windows This version includes improvements to activation and troubleshooting activation errors. For more info about how to keep Windows up to date, see Windows Update: FAQ.
Error | What it means and how to fix it |
|---|---|
Windows reported that the hardware of your device has changed. 0xCF | A Windows license is associated with your device hardware. If you make significant hardware changes, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows won’t be able to find a matching license the next time you start your device. If Windows was preinstalled on the device and you have made a change such as replacing the motherboard, you'll need a new license. To purchase a new Windows license, Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation , and then select Go to Microsoft Store. If you have a Windows product key you used on your device before the hardware change, enter it by selecting Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation, and then selecting Change product key. Additionally, Microsoft provides an exception path for transferring a Windows License after a hardware change. You’ll need to be signed in to the same Microsoft account before making the hardware change and to use the exception path. To access this exception path, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation, and then select Troubleshoot. If the troubleshooter can’t resolve the issue, you’ll see a link to reactivate after a hardware change. Select it to follow this path. For more info, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change. |
The product key used on this device didn't work with this edition of Windows. You might need to get in touch with the store or company you bought Windows from, enter a different product key, or go to the Store to buy genuine Windows. 0xCF | When you reinstall Windows 10 using a digital license, you’re asked to choose which edition to install, windows 10 how to activate. If you choose an edition other than the one you’re licensed to use, you may receive this error. If you think you installed the wrong edition, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation, and then select Troubleshoot. If the troubleshooter detects a valid Windows 10 digital license for an edition not currently installed, it will let you know and show you how to install the correct edition. |
Windows reported that no product key was found on your device. 0xCF | A Windows license is associated with your device hardware. If you make significant hardware changes, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows won’t be able to find a matching license the next time you start your device. If Windows was preinstalled on the device and you have made a change such as replacing the motherboard, you'll need a new license. To purchase a new Windows license, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation , and then select Go to Microsoft Store. If you have a Windows product key you used on your device before the hardware change, enter it by selecting Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation, and then selecting Change product key. In addition, Microsoft provides an exception path for transferring a Windows License after a hardware change. You’ll need to be signed in to the same Microsoft account before making the hardware change and to use the exception path. To access this exception path, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation, and then select Troubleshoot. If the troubleshooter can’t resolve the issue, windows 10 how to activate, you’ll see a link to reactivate after a hardware change. Select it to follow this path. For more info, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change. |
"Your Windows License Will Expire Soon" warning | This may occur if you have a volume license client installed. Windows 10 Pro volume license clients are used by large organizations that deploy Windows 10 to hundreds or thousands of computers. In this situation, activation is typically managed by your organization, and you'll need to contact your system administrator for assistance. For more info, see Troubleshooting Windows license expiration issues. |
0xf | If you see error code 0xF, it means that a valid Windows 10 license couldn’t be found to activate Windows on your device. Here's how windows 10 how to activate activate Windows:
Note: Your product key should be in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows, included with the packaging that came with your device, or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the back or bottom of your device. For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key. For more info on how to troubleshoot error code 0xF, see Fix Windows activation error 0xF |
0xcF | This error means we didn’t find a valid Windows license for your device. You must use a valid product key to activate Windows. Your product key should be in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows, included with the packaging that came with your device, or on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the back or bottom of your device. For help finding your product key, see Find your Windows product key. If you have a valid product key, use it to activate Windows:
If you've made a major change to your device's hardware, such as a motherboard replacement, run the Windows Activation troubleshooter located on the activation settings page. Note that you might be asked to go through the reactivation process. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter. |
0xCC, 0xCC4A2, windows 10 how to activate, 0xCC4A2, 0xFAL, 0xCC, 0xCC, windows 10 how to activate, 0xCF, 0xCC, 0xCF, 0xCC00F, 0xCC, windows 10 how to activate, 0xCC00E, 0xCC4A4, 0xCC4A5, 0xCB, 0xCF, 0xCF | Reasons why you might see these errors:
|
0xCC | You may see this error because the Windows 10 product key you entered isn’t valid. Product keys are unique—assigned to a specific user to install on a single device. If a key was used (or attempted to be used) on multiple devices, it’s marked as not valid. To activate Windows, you’ll need to provide a different Windows key unique to your device. If you bought a device from a reseller of Windows 10 and expected the key to be valid, contact the reseller. If your device was purchased with Windows 10 preinstalled and you received Format Factory 4.6.0.2 Download turning it on for the first time, contact your device manufacturer. If your experience with your device is different from those listed above, try the following:
|
0xCF | You might see this error if you entered an invalid product key or a product key for a different version of Windows. Enter a valid product key that matches the version and edition of Windows 10 installed on your device. If Windows is installed on a device that connects to a Key Management Service (KMS) server, contact your organization's support person for more info about how to activate Windows. |
0xCF | You might see this error if you entered a product key for a different edition of Windows than the edition installed on your device. You might also see this error if you previously upgraded to Windows 10, but the current edition of Windows installed on your device doesn't match the edition of your digital license. You can either enter a valid product key that matches the edition of Windows installed on your device or reinstall the edition of Windows 10 that matches your digital license. If your device is running Windows 10 (Version or later), the Activation troubleshooter can help you install the correct edition of Windows on your device. For more info, see Using the Activation troubleshooter. |
0xCE, 0xCF | You might see this error if you entered a product key for a different version or edition of Windows. For example, a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows 10 can't be used to activate Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Core editions. Enter a product key that matches the version and edition of Windows installed on your device or buy a new copy of Windows from the Microsoft Store. |
0xCFC03 | You might see this error if you're not connected to the internet or your firewall settings are preventing Windows from completing the activation process online. Make sure that you're connected to the internet and your firewall isn't blocking Windows from activating. If you're still having problems, try to activate Windows by phone. In the search box on the taskbar, type SLUI 04, select SLUI 04 from the list of results, and then follow the instructions windows 10 how to activate the screen to activate Windows. |
0xCE | You might see this error if you try to activate a device that is already in the process of activation. Your device should be activated after the first request is completed. |
0xC | You might see this error if you’re not connected to the internet or the activation server is temporarily unavailable. Windows 10 how to activate sure that you're connected to the internet and your firewall isn't blocking Windows from activating. |
0xD, 0xC, 0xcC, 0xCC, 0xCC | If the activation server is temporarily unavailable, your copy of Windows will automatically be activated when the service comes back online. |
0xCC, 0xCC, 0xFA | You might see this error if the product key has already been used on another device, or it's being used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow, windows 10 how to activate. To fix the problem, buy a product key for each one of your devices to activate Windows on them. If you’re using Windows 10, you can buy Windows from the Microsoft Store:
Notes:
|
0xCF00F | You might see this error if you entered a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows to activate Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro. Enter a product key that matches the edition of Windows on your device. |
0xCC | This error occurs when a Volume License (a license that was bought from Microsoft by an organization to install Windows on multiple devices) was used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. To fix the problem, you might need to use a different product key to activate Windows on your device. Contact your organization's support person for more info. |
0xB, 0xCF, 0xCF, 0xB |
|
0xF8F | You might see this error if the date and time for the device is incorrect, or Windows has trouble connecting to the online activation service and can't verify your product key. To verify the date and time, select Start > Settings > Time & language > Date & time. To check your internet connection:
If the network troubleshooter didn't find any problems with your network connection, try restarting your device to see if that fixes the problem. |
0xCE | You might see this error after installing third-party software that changed system files. Windows activation needs certain system files to complete activation. You can try to restore the system files back to an earlier point in time. This removes any software you installed after that point in time without affecting your personal files. For more info, see the section about how to restore from a system restore point in Recovery options in Windows. |
0x | Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation , and then select Troubleshoot to run the Activation troubleshooter. For more info about the troubleshooter, see Using the Activation troubleshooter. Open Activation settings If this doesn't work, you might need to reset your device. For more info, see the section in Recovery options in Windows. |
0x87e10bc6 | An error occurred with our activation server or licensing service. Please wait a few minutes and then try the following Windows 10 Pro License Recovery steps: Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation , and then select Troubleshoot to run the Activation troubleshooter. When the troubleshooter is complete, select Go to Microsoft Store to launch the Microsoft Store app. If the Microsoft Store app shows there was a problem, select Try again. After a few minutes, you should see a message that thanking you for activating genuine Windows, followed by another message showing that Windows was activated. For more info about the troubleshooter, see Using the Activation troubleshooter. |
0x | This error can occur if the update components are missing or corrupted on the computer. This error might also occur due to poor network connectivity received by the system. Use the Windows update troubleshooter to check for the corrupted or missing updates or components. Running the troubleshooter will help find and in some cases fix the issue. Also, windows 10 how to activate, check the strength of your internet connection. |
All other error codes | Go to Windows Help, enter the error code in the Search for Help box at the top-right, and run the search. Browse through the search results carefully to make sure you try only those that apply to your situation. |
Microsoft has made it possible for anybody to download and install Windows 10 for free, even without a product key. It will continue to work with a few small deviations. Microsoft employed Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) in Windows XP to prevent you from accessing your PC. These days, Windows only nags you in a few tiny, obnoxious ways. You may be able to upgrade to a licensed version of Windows 10 for a price after you install it. In this post, we’ll show you how to permanently activate Windows 10 for free with its Digital License. So, continue reading to activate Windows 10 without key.
How to Activate Windows 10 Without Product Key or License
You won’t be able to activate Windows 10 if you install it without a key. However, there aren’t many restrictions with an inactivated version of Windows You won’t notice a change at first.
Limitations of Inactivated Version of Windows
Windows will eventually start bothering you a little as follows:
- A watermark will appear in the bottom-right area of your screen. You’ll also get a message telling you to Activate Windows.
- At the bottom of the Settings app, the same option will be seen stating Activate Windows.
Thankfully, there would be no annoying pop-ups though.
Pro Tip: How to Find Out Windows 10 Edition
Prior to activating Windows 10, you must first determine your Windows 10 edition. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Press the Windows + Ikeys simultaneously to open Settings.
3. Click on System setting.
4. Then, click on About to read about all details pertaining to your Windows 10 device.
Option 1: Through Installation Media Tool
1. To begin, you’ll need to obtain a copy ofWindows 10. You can get a copy of it directly from the Microsoft website, windows 10 how to activate, and you don’t even need a product key.
2A. Use Windows 10 download program that will assist you in creating aUSB stick to install Windows
Must Read:How to Create Windows 10 Bootable USB Flash Drive
2B. If you’re not using Windows, you may download ISOfile straight from the Windows 10 ISO download page.
Must Read: How to Create Windows 10 Installation Media with Media Creation Tool
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows
4. One of the first displays you’ll encounter will ask for your product key in order to Activate Windows.
5A. You can continue the installation process by clicking the I don’t have a product key option at the bottom of the window.
5B. Later in the process, you may be prompted to input a product key. If so, seek for a similar little link to bypass that page.
6. If you don’t see this option, you can proceed by providing a KMS client setup key.
Note: Unless you’re in a business with a Key Management Service, these keys won’t provide you an active copy of Windows, but they will get you through the Windows installation process.
7. You can install either Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro as per your needs.
Note: Keep in mind that upgrading to Windows 10 Home is cheaper than upgrading to the Pro version later.
Also Read:How to Repair Install Windows 10 Easily
Option 2: Through Command Prompt
Additionally, windows 10 how to activate, you can activate Windows by running certain commands as explained below:
1. In the Windows search field, type Command Prompt, choose Run as administrator.
2. Type the chambery-turin.com /upk command and press the Enter key.
3. To install the product key, run the command below.
slmgr /ipk NPPR9-FWDCX-D2C8J-HK-XXXXX4. Continue to input the command to set the machine name to chambery-turin.com
slmgr /skms chambery-turin.com5. Type slmgr /ato to activate Windows
How to Activate Windows 10 with Product Key
Similarly, you can activate Windows using Command Prompt with the help of Product key as follows:
1. Launch Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Type the following commands and press the Enter key after each command.
slmgr /ipk VK7JG-NPHTM-C97JM-9MPGT-XXXXXslmgr /skms chambery-turin.comslmgr /atoRecommended:
We hope you found this information helpful and that you were able to install Windows 10 with and without product key or digital license. If you have any queries or suggestions, drop them in the comments section below.
How to Permanently Activate Windows 10 Free with CMD [MiniTool Tips]
This post provides step-by-step guide windows 10 how to activate help you activate Windows 10 by using CMD. Check how to activate Windows 10 with CMD but not with Windows 10 activation tool. If you need to recover lost data from Windows 10 computer, MiniTool data recovery software is a good choice.
After you install or reinstall Windows 10, it will ask you to activate Windows If your Windows 10 system has not been activated, it will appear a watermark at the lower-right screen saying “Activate Windows, windows 10 how to activate. Go to Settings to activate Windows”. It would be annoying to have the watermark on screen.
Besides, if you don’t activate Windows 10, you can’t change the Windows Personalization settings like lock screen, wallpaper, theme, windows 10 how to activate, etc.
Before we learn how to activate Windows 10 with CMD, you can firstly check the edition of your installed Windows 10 system.
You can press Windows logo key and Pause/Break key on the keyboard at the same time to quickly check the Windows 10 edition of your computer.
Tip:MiniTool Power Data Recovery - Helps you easily recover deleted files or lost data from Windows computer or other storage devices including external hard drive, SSD, USB flash/pen/thumb drive, SD card, memory card, etc. Recover data only in 3 simple steps.
Free Download
How to Permanently Activate Windows 10 with CMD
Without third-party Windows 10 activation tools, you can activate Windows 10 with CMD for free. Here we’ll introduce how windows 10 how to activate activate Windows Enterprise edition with CMD.
Step 1. You can press Windows + R key on the keyboard to open Windows Run box. Type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open and run Windows Command Prompt as administrator.
Step 2. After you enter into Windows 10 Command Prompt, you can copy and paste this command line: chambery-turin.com /upk, in the Command Prompt window. Hit Enter to execute the command.
Step 3. Next you can copy and paste this command line and hit Enter to install the Windows 10 product key: slmgr dvdfab crack mac Free Activators <Windows 10 activation key>. Replace "Windows 10 activation key" with the real license key that you buy or find online for Windows 10 OS.
Note: It's advised that you support and buy the original Windows 10 license key from Microsoft and use this way to permanently activate Windows You may find some free available Windows 10 product keys online and use them to activate Windows 10 permanently, but be careful since it may violate Microsoft copyright policies.
Step 4. Then you can type slmgr /skms chambery-turin.com command line and hit Enter.
Step 5. At last, copy and paste slmgr /ato and hit Enter to activate Windows 10 for free with CMD.
How to Activate Windows 10 Pro with CMD
Step 1. Click Start and type cmd, right-click Command Prompt app and choose Run as administrator.
Step 2. Copy and paste the following command line in Command Prompt window and hit Enter, windows 10 how to activate. If you buy or find the activation key for Windows 10 Pro, you can replace "Windows 10 license key" in the command line after slmgr /ipk.
slmgr /ipk <Windows 10 license key>
Step 3. Type the following command lines and remember to hit Enter after you type each line.
slmgr /skms chambery-turin.com
slmgr /ato
How to Check If Your Windows 10 Is Activated or Not
If you want to check whether your Windows 10 computer is activated or not, you can press Windows + R keys on the keyboard to open Run box, type chambery-turin.com -xpr in Run box and hit Enter.
Bottom Line
By following the steps above, you can easily activate Windows 10 for free with CMD.
If your Windows 10 computer has other problems, you can repair Windows 10 with 6 ways. If you lost some data in your Windows 10 computer, you can use MiniTool Power Data Recovery to easily recover lost data or mistakenly deleted files in 3 simple steps.
About The Author
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Alisa is a professional English editor with 4-year experience. She loves writing and focuses on sharing detailed solutions and thoughts for computer problems, data recovery & backup, digital gadgets, tech news, windows 10 how to activate, etc. Through her articles, users can always easily get related problems solved and find what they want. In spare time, she likes basketball, badminton, tennis, cycling, running, and singing. She is very funny and energetic in life, and always brings friends lots of laughs.
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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.
Checking your 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 windows 10 how to activate 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:
Sign in as an administrator to add your Microsoft account. To confirm you're using an administrator account, select the Start button, then select Settings > Accounts > Your info . Under your name, you’ll see Administrator. If you’re not an administrator, see Create a local user or administrator account.
Go to your info in SettingsConfirm 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, windows 10 how to activate, 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, windows 10 how to activate, 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 activation
Depending on how you got your copy of Windows 11, you'll need either a digital license or a 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 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
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 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 windows 10 how to activate 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 Windows 10 how to activate (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 windows 10 how to activate 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 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, windows 10 how to activate, 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, windows 10 how to activate, 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 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, windows 10 how to activate, 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, windows 10 how to activate. For more info, see Reactivating Windows after a hardware change.
Activate using a product key
A product key is a 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 windows 10 how to activate 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 windows 10 how to activate 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, windows 10 how to activate 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, windows 10 how to activate. After the installation is complete, Windows 11 will automatically be activated online. To check activation status in Windows 11, windows 10 how to activate, 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, windows 10 how to activate. If it doesn't activate, your OEM might have provided a COA card with a 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.
Type in the product key found on the COA and follow the instructions.
Change product key in Settings
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
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 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 windows 10 how to activate 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 ) was already activated on your device, your digital license will automatically activate Windows.
Related links
Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t windows 10 how to activate used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow.
Checking your 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:
Sign in as an administrator to add your Microsoft account. To confirm you're using an administrator account, select the Start button, then select Settings > Accounts > Your info . Under your name, you’ll see Administrator. If you’re not an administrator, see Create a local user or administrator account.
Go to your info in SettingsConfirm 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, windows 10 how to activate, 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 activation
Depending on how you got your copy of Windows 10, you'll need either a digital license or a 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, windows 10 how to activate, Version ) is a method of activation in Windows 10 that doesn't require you to enter a product key.
A product key is a windows 10 how to activate 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
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 | 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 windows 10 how to activate 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 windows 10 how to activate 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 10 how to activate 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, windows 10 how to activate, then you can run setup to reinstall Windows 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 windows 10 how to activate 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, windows 10 how to activate. 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 using a product key
A product key is a 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 windows 10 how 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 windows 10 how to activate 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 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.
Type in the product key found on the COA and follow the instructions.
Change product key in Settings
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
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 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, windows 10 how to activate. To see the edition, select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & Security > windows 10 how to activate .
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 windows 10 how to activate device before upgrading to the new build.
To check activation status in Windows 10, select the Start button, windows 10 how to activate, 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 ) was already activated on your device, your digital license will automatically activate Windows.
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