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Video Tutorial:How do I find my Windows 10 OEM product key?
How do I activate my Windows 10 product key after installation?
After installing Windows 10, activating it is essential to unlock its full features. To do so, you must have a valid product key that you can either purchase from the Microsoft Store or obtain from your device manufacturer.
To activate Windows 10 using a product key, follow these steps:
1. Open the Start menu and click on the "Settings" icon (gear icon).
2. Click on the "Update & Security" option and select "Activation" from the left-hand menu.
3. Click on the "Change product key" button and enter your valid product key in the space provided.
4. Click "Next" and wait for a moment as Windows verifies the authenticity of the key.
5. Follow the prompts to complete the activation process.
If you entered an invalid product key, Windows 10 will prompt you to correct the error before proceeding. In most cases, activating Windows 10 using a valid product key should be a straightforward process that takes only a few minutes to complete.
It’s worth noting that Microsoft offers several other methods of activating Windows 10, including activating it using a digital license or a Microsoft account. However, activating it using a product key is the most common and straightforward method.
How do I find my Windows 10 product key in the registry?
It is possible to find your Windows 10 product key in the registry. Follow these steps:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "regedit" and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion.
4. Look for a key named "DigitalProductId."
5. Right-click on the key and select "Export" to create a backup of it.
6. Open the exported file in a text editor and look for the line "ProductKey." This is your Windows 10 product key.
Note that modifying the registry can be risky, so be careful when making any changes. It’s always a good idea to back up the registry before making any changes. Additionally, if your Windows 10 product key is not stored in the registry, there are other methods you can try to retrieve it.
Will I lose my product key if I reinstall Windows 10?
No, you will not lose your product key if you reinstall Windows 10 on the same device. Windows 10 product keys are tied to the hardware configuration of your device, meaning you can reinstall Windows 10 at any time without losing your activation status. However, if you make significant changes to your device’s hardware, such as replacing the motherboard or processor, you may need to reactivate your copy of Windows 10 with a new product key.
What is the difference between Windows 10 installed key and OEM key?
The main difference between a Windows 10 installed key and an OEM key is how they are licensed. An installed key is licensed through the Microsoft Store or through a retail purchase and can be transferred to a new device. In contrast, an OEM key is tied to a specific computer and cannot be transferred to another device. OEM keys are typically sold by computer manufacturers and are cheaper than installed keys. Additionally, OEM keys may have limited support from Microsoft, whereas installed keys receive updates and customer support directly from Microsoft. It is important to note that using an OEM key on a computer that did not come with it installed may be illegal and can result in technical issues.
What is my OEM key?
Your OEM key is a unique identifier that is assigned to your computer by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) during the manufacturing process. It is used to activate the operating system and validate that it is a genuine copy. The OEM key is typically stored in the computer’s BIOS or UEFI firmware and is not transferable to another computer. If you need to reinstall the operating system, you will need to use the original OEM key that came with your computer or purchase a new one.
How do I get my product key?
If you have purchased software that requires activation with a product key, the product key is typically included in the packaging or provided via email if you purchased the software digitally. If you have lost your product key or did not receive one, you may need to contact the software manufacturer’s customer service for assistance with obtaining a new key. In some cases, you may be required to provide proof of purchase or other information to verify ownership of the software.