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.
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.
Find your product key to activate WindowsA 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. Windows 11 and Windows 10: In most cases, Windows 11 and Windows 10 activates automatically using a digital license and doesn’t require you to enter a product key. However, if ...
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 experience.
You can also try our guided support in your browser to help with activation issues. I thought this device included Microsoft 365 or a non-subscription version of Office.
If you see a Let's get started screen with options to try, buy, or activate Microsoft 365, this means that Microsoft 365 is installed on your new PC as a 1-month trial of Microsoft 365 Family. You won't receive a product key from your PC manufacturer unless you paid for an Microsoft 365 product key card. Instead, you can start a trial of Microsoft 365 Family, or buy Microsoft 365. I thought ...
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.
