How to find your Windows 10 product keyīefore we begin, note that the success of any of these methods is largely dependent on how your PC was activated. This how-to tutorial shows you how to find your Windows 10 product key using the power of the operating system itself. But before you go crawling behind your desk looking for a 25-digit alphanumeric code printed in fine print on the backside of your PC, there are less strenuous ways to track down your Windows 10 product key. Your Windows 10 product key should be listed on a sticker located on your computer hardware somewhere-typically in the most inaccessible spot possible. SEE: Checklist: Securing Windows 10 systems (TechRepublic Premium) Must-read Windows coverageĭefend your network with Microsoft outside-in security services However, some users may still need to know their Windows 10 product key. When this article was first published in August 2021, Windows 11 was a pending release – now that it’s available, we have tips on how to find your product key in Windows 11. Have you lost your Windows 10 product key? You can find it listed in the operating system itself with a little know-how and just a few simple commands.įor most users, particularly with Microsoft Windows 10, the last operating system you will ever need, there has been no need for product keys because there has been no “new” version of Windows. This is the only form of nag you’ll see - there are no pop-up windows, for example.3 simple ways to find your Windows 10 product key Activate Windows now.” link at the bottom of the Settings app. You’ll also see a “Windows isn’t activated. First, you’ll notice a watermark in the bottom-right corner of your screen. Eventually, Windows will start nagging you a tiny bit. Initially, you won’t notice a difference. These days, Windows just complains at you in a few minor, cosmetic ways.

With Windows XP, Microsoft actually used Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) to disable access to your computer. However, an unactivated version of Windows 10 doesn’t have many restrictions. RELATED: How Does Windows Activation Work?Īfter you’ve installed Windows 10 without a key, it won’t actually be activated. Whatever version you choose, Windows 10 will install normally. When you select this option, you’ll be able to install either “Windows 10 Home” or “Windows 10 Pro.” Bear in mind that, if you plan to pay to upgrade to the paid version later, it’ll be cheaper to upgrade to Windows 10 Home, so you may want to install the Home version.

Win 10 home product key