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How to activate windows 10/11

Activating Windows 11 depends on how you obtained your copy. Here are the common methods:   

1. Digital License:

  • What it is: A digital license is linked to your Microsoft account and your device's hardware. This is the most common method if you upgraded to Windows 11 for free from an activated Windows 10, or if you purchased Windows 11 from the Microsoft Store and linked it to your account.   
  • How it works: If you have a digital license, Windows 11 should automatically activate once your device is connected to the internet and you sign in with the Microsoft account linked to the license.
  • How to check: Go to Settings > System > Activation. Under "Activation status," you should see "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account."   
  • Reinstalling Windows: If you have a digital license, you can usually reinstall the same edition of Windows 11 on the same device without needing to enter a product key. Just skip the product key entry during installation, and Windows should automatically activate after you connect to the internet and sign in with your Microsoft account.   

2. Product Key:

  • What it is: A 25-character code (XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX) that you receive when you purchase a retail copy of Windows, a digital license from a third-party retailer, or sometimes with a new PC.   
  • How to activate:
    1. Go to Settings > System > Activation.
    2. Click on "Change product key".
    3. Enter your 25-character product key and follow the on-screen instructions.

3. Using a Microsoft Account Linked to a Digital License:

  • If you've made significant hardware changes to your computer (like replacing the motherboard), Windows 11 might no longer be activated. You can use the Activation troubleshooter if your digital license is linked to your Microsoft account:
    1. Go to Settings > System > Activation.
    2. Click on "Troubleshoot".
    3. Follow the on-screen instructions. You might be asked to sign in with your Microsoft account to reactivate Windows.
       

4. Purchasing a Digital License from the Microsoft Store:

  • If Windows 11 isn't activated, you'll likely see a "Windows is not activated" message in the Activation settings. You can purchase a digital license through the Microsoft Store:
    1. Go to Settings > System > Activation.
    2. Click on "Go to Store".
    3. Follow the instructions in the Microsoft Store to purchase a Windows 11 digital license.
       

5. By Phone Activation:

  • If you can't activate online, you can try activating by phone:
    1. Press Windows key + R, type slui 4 in the Run dialog, and click OK.   
    2. Select your country or region and click Next.
    3. Call the phone number provided on the screen.
    4. An automated system will guide you through the activation process. You'll need to provide an installation ID and will receive a confirmation ID to enter into your computer.

Troubleshooting Activation Issues:

  • Check your internet connection: A stable internet connection is usually required for online activation.   
  • Make sure you have the correct edition of Windows 11 installed: The edition you install must match the license you have (e.g., Windows 11 Home license won't activate Windows 11 Pro). You can try the Activation troubleshooter to see if it can detect the correct edition for your digital license.   
  • Run the Activation troubleshooter: This built-in tool can often resolve common activation errors.   
  • Contact Microsoft Support: If you encounter persistent activation issues, you might need to contact Microsoft Support for further assistance.

Important Notes:

  • It's crucial to activate Windows 11 to ensure you receive updates and have full access to all its features. An inactivated version may have limited functionality.   
  • Be cautious of unofficial activation methods or tools, as they can pose security risks and may lead to an unstable system. It's always best to use legitimate methods provided by Microsoft.

Remember to have your product key or Microsoft account details ready when attempting activation.