Learn how to activate Windows using a product key or digital license, check your activation status, and link your Microsoft account.

Learn how to find a Windows product key for activation, and when you'll use a digital license instead.

Learn how to use the Activation troubleshooter to resolve common activation issues in Windows.

Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. This article will help you …

A product key is a 25-character code that's used to activate Windows and helps verify that Windows hasn't been used on more PCs than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow.

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 …

Learn how to activate Windows using an internet connection, automated system, or live support advocate.

In summary, a product key is used during installation, while an activation code is used to activate the software afterwards. Both are essential for ensuring a legitimate and functional software …

When you get a message that says Windows can't be activated, there are several possible reasons why. Select any of the following topics to see some typical reasons for activation …

Windows 10 should automatically activate unless you made significant hardware changes (such as replacing the motherboard). For additional troubleshooting steps, please see Get help with …