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Where to find the Windows Product Key for Windows 11 and Windows 10

Summary: FAQ guide on Windows Product Keys for both Windows 11 and Windows 10. Learn how product keys function, how to locate product key, and identify a Genuine Windows computer.

This article applies to This article does not apply to This article is not tied to any specific product. Not all product versions are identified in this article.
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Instructions

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

How to Check Your Activation Status in Windows 10

Duration: 00:29 (hh:mm:ss)
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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 needed to be reinstalled.

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

To identify a genuine version of Windows 11 or Windows 10, perform the following steps:

  1. Right-click the Start icon.
  2. Select System.
  3. Select Activation.
  4. Select Activation state. Look for "Windows is activated," "Windows is activated with a digital license," or "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account." These messages indicate that your copy is genuine.
    NOTE: When you see a message such as "Windows is not activated," see Microsoft Knowledge Base article Activate Windows.

See these Microsoft Knowledge Base articles for more information about determining if your Windows license is genuine, and Windows activation:

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

Additional Information

SLN290004_en_US__1Windows
More information and support for your Windows operating systems can be found on our Windows Support webpage.

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Article Properties
Article Number: 000132462
Article Type: How To
Last Modified: 30 Jan 2025
Version:  22
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