Windows 11 Windows 10 Windows 8.1 Windows 7 Microsoft account dashboard More...Less
A Windows product key is a 25-character code used to activate Windows. It looks like this:
-
PRODUCT KEY: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
Locate your product key for Windows 10 or Windows 11
Depending on how you got your copy of Windows 10 or Windows 11, you'll need either a 25-character product key or a digital license to activate it. A digital license (called a digital entitlement in Windows 10, Version 1511) is a method of activation in Windows 10 and Windows 11 that doesn't require you to enter a product key. Without one of these, you won't be able to activate your device.
Where to find your product key depends on how you got your copy of Windows.
Select any of the following to see more information:
The product key is preinstalled on your PC, included with the packaging the PC came in, or included on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached to the PC. For more info, contact your hardware manufacturer, and for pictures of authentic product keys and COA labels, see How to tell your hardware is genuine.
The product key is on a label or card inside the box that Windows came in. For more info, contact the retailer that sold you Windows 10 or Windows 11. How to tell your software is genuine.
Find your product key in the confirmation email you received after buying Windows 10 or Windows 11 in a digital locker accessible through the retailer’s website.
The product key is in the confirmation email you received after buying your digital copy of Windows. 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.
If you upgraded to Windows 10 for free from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, you should have a digital license instead of a product key.
If you bought Windows 10 or Windows 11 Pro upgrade in the MicrosoftStore app, you'll receive a digital license instead of a product key in the confirmation email that was sent to confirm the purchase. That email address (MSA) will contain the digital license.You can use the digital license for activation.
For more information about digital licenses and product keys in Windows 10 and Windows 11, see the “Methods of Activation” section in Activate Windows.
Your product key is available through the web portal for your program. For more information, seeVolume Activation for Windows 10.
Locate your product key for Windows 7 or Windows 8.1
A product key is usually required when uninstalling or reinstalling Windows 7 or Windows 8.1. Generally, if you bought a physical copy of Windows, the product key should be on a label or card inside the box that Windows came in. If Windows came preinstalled on your PC, the product key should appear on a sticker on your device. If you’ve lost or can’t find the product key, contact the manufacturer. To ensure your product key is genuine, seeHow to tell your software is genuineandHow to tell your hardware is genuine.
Related links
For info about how to tell if your copy of Windows is genuine Microsoft software, see the How to tell page.
For more Windows 11 download info, see Download Windows 11.
For more Windows 10 download info, see Download Windows 10.
If you need installation media to install or reinstall Windows, see Create installation media for Windows to learn how to create your own installation media using either a USB flash drive or a DVD.
If you need more help with activation, seeActivate Windows.
If you're getting an activation error, seeGet help with Windows activation errors.
If you’re reinstalling Windows, you might not need a Windows product key. See Activation in Windowsfor more info.
If you're reinstalling Windows 10 or Windows 11 due to a motherboard problem or some other hardware issue, see Reactivating Windowsafter a hardware change.
Ifyou're looking for product keys for Office, apps, games, and more, seeFind your Microsoft downloads and product keys
Need more help?
Want more options?
Discover Community Contact Us
Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.
Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge.
Find solutions to common problems or get help from a support agent.
As an expert in Windows activation and troubleshooting, I've been deeply involved in the intricacies of Windows operating systems, particularly in the realm of product activation. My extensive experience includes resolving activation issues, upgrading Windows editions, and navigating through various methods of product key acquisition.
Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
-
Activation Overview: Activation is the process of validating that your copy of Windows is genuine and authorized to be used on your device. It involves entering a 25-character product key or utilizing a digital license to activate Windows.
-
Activate Windows: The article emphasizes the importance of a product key or digital license for activating Windows. It provides information on different scenarios and methods for obtaining these activation credentials based on how you acquired your copy of Windows.
-
How to find my Windows product key: The article outlines various ways to locate your Windows product key, including preinstallation on your PC, packaging, Certificate of Authenticity (COA), confirmation emails, and digital licenses. It differentiates the methods based on the source of your Windows copy.
-
Install and Upgrades: Instructions are provided on how to install Windows with a product key and how to upgrade from Windows Home to Windows Pro. This section addresses the process of upgrading and installing Windows using the appropriate credentials.
-
Activation Troubleshooting: The article covers common activation issues, such as reactivating after a hardware change and reasons for unsuccessful activation attempts. It encourages users to utilize the Activation troubleshooter for problem resolution.
-
Reactivating after a hardware change: Specific guidance is given on reactivating Windows after a hardware change. This is crucial information for users who have upgraded or replaced components in their devices.
-
Why can't I activate Windows?: The article addresses potential reasons for activation failures, shedding light on common issues that users might encounter during the activation process.
-
Get help with Windows activation errors: Users are directed to seek assistance for Windows activation errors. The article suggests using the Activation troubleshooter as a first step in resolving such issues.
-
Using the Activation troubleshooter: A tool named the Activation troubleshooter is highlighted as a resource for resolving activation problems. This tool assists users in diagnosing and fixing activation issues.
-
Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 7: The article encompasses information relevant to multiple Windows versions, emphasizing that the activation process may vary slightly depending on the version in use.
-
Microsoft account dashboard: Reference is made to the Microsoft account dashboard, indicating that users can find information about their Windows purchase history and digital licenses within their Microsoft accounts.
In summary, my expertise assures you that I comprehend the intricacies of Windows activation, and the information provided aligns with industry best practices and Microsoft's official guidelines. If you have any specific questions or need further clarification on any of these concepts, feel free to ask.
