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Windows Activation: Everything You Need to Know

Activation ensures that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn't exceeded the number of devices allowed under the Microsoft Software License Terms. Here’s an overview to help you activate Windows successfully:

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Checking Activation Status

• Ensure your Windows 11 is activated and linked to your Microsoft account.
• Linking your Microsoft account to your Windows license allows you to easily reactivate after significant hardware changes using the Activation Troubleshooter.

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Windows Activation Methods

Windows 11 can be activated using either a digital license or a 25-character product key.

1. Digital License

• Also called digital entitlement, this method doesn’t require a product key.
• Activation occurs automatically once your PC is connected to the internet and linked to your Microsoft account.

2. Product Key

• A 25-character code that looks like this: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
• You’ll need this during installation or later via: Start > Settings > System > Activation > Update product key > Change product key.

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Activation Scenarios

1. First-Time Installation or After a Hardware Change
   • Enter the product key during installation or later via the Change product key option.
   • For devices with motherboard replacements by the manufacturer (OEM), activation should occur automatically. If not, use the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) key provided.
2. Reinstalling Windows 11
   • Enter your product key during setup or afterwards in the Activation settings.
3. Refurbished Devices
   • Use the COA sticker attached to the device for activation.

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Edition Matching

Your Windows license must match your installed edition (e.g., Home or Pro). If they don’t match, activation will fail. To check or upgrade:

• Check Edition: Start > Settings > System > Activation
• Upgrade: See Upgrade Windows 11 Home to Pro.

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Windows Insider Program

If you’re running Windows Insider Preview builds, new updates are automatically activated if your previous build was activated. To check activation status, go to: Start > Settings > System > Activation

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For more details or help with errors, visit Get Help with Windows Activation Errors. If you’re interested in joining the Windows Insider Program, navigate to: Start > Settings > System > Windows Insider Program > Get Started.