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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

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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.

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.

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Article Properties
Article Number: 000132462
Article Type: How To
Last Modified: 29 أغسطس 2024
Version:  20
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