Windows Product Key: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Table of Contents:

1. Where is the Windows 11 or Windows 10 Product Key?
2. Identify a Genuine Windows 11 or Windows 10 Computer

Video - How to Check Your Activation Status in Windows 10

Where is the Windows 11 or Windows 10 Product Key?

Factory-installed Windows 11 and Windows 10 computers differ from previous versions of Windows. The product key for Windows was previously attached as a label on the computer. This key could be referenced for activation if the operating system must be reinstalled.

For Windows 11 and Windows 10, the product key is "injected" onto the computer motherboard at the factory. Installation and activation of Windows see the information in the BIOS of the computer to verify authenticity. Owners of these computers do not need a physical key to input.

Identify a Genuine Windows 11 or Windows 10 Computer

Dell computers that are factory-installed with Windows 11 or Windows 10 may carry a logo on the palm rest. This logo verifies that the computer is a Genuine Windows 11 or Windows 10 device and has a Product Key on the motherboard.

For more on specific labels that Microsoft uses on computer hardware, see Microsoft's How to Tell website. Click the What to look for tab at the top of the page for images and information.

For more information about older versions of Windows, see the Microsoft knowledge base article Find your Windows product key.

Recommended Articles

Here are some recommended articles related to this topic that might be of interest to you.

• Windows 10 activation troubleshooter
• Requirements for Dell Windows 10 Activation
• Installation of Windows 10 from an ISO image may prompt for a digital product key (DPK)
• Factory Reset, Restore, or Reinstall Microsoft Windows on a Dell computer

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