Learn how to activate Windows using a product key or digital license, check your activation status, and link your Microsoft account.

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 …

Learn how to find a Windows product key for activation, and when you'll use a digital license instead.

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.

Apprenez à activer Windows à l'aide d'une clé de produit ou d'une licence numérique, à vérifier l'état de votre activation et à lier votre compte Microsoft.

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 …

Learn how to use the Activation troubleshooter to resolve common activation issues in Windows.

article with instructions for users who have invalid product keys and are receiving MSDN key block activation error

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 …

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 …