To find out, select the Start button, then select Settings > System and then select Activation.

In Windows 11, it is essential that you link your Microsoft account with the Windows 11 digital license on your device. Linking your Microsoft account with your digital license allows you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter whenever you make a significant hardware change.įirst, you'll need to find out if your Microsoft account ( What is a Microsoft account?) is linked to your Windows 11 digital license. Once you've confirmed that Windows 11 is activated, follow these steps: If you're not activated, complete the activation process with the steps you see on the Activation page. If you experience an error while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors.

Select the Start button, then select Settings > System > Activation. Prepare your Windows 11 device for a hardware changeįirst, follow these steps to find out if Windows 11 is already activated. Then, use the following info to help you successfully prepare for a hardware change and reactivate Windows. To find out which you need, see 'What activation method do I use, product key or digital license?' in Activate Windows. To activate Windows, you'll need either a digital license or a product key. If you make significant hardware changes on your device, such as replacing your motherboard, Windows will no longer find a license that matches your device, and you’ll need to reactivate Windows to get it up and running. When installing Windows 11, the digital license associates itself with your device's hardware. Without one of these, you won't be able to activate your device.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. A digital license (called a digital entitlement in Windows 10, Version 1511) is a method of activation in Windows 10 that doesn't require you to enter a product key. Windows hello biometrics require specialized hardware, including fingerprint reader, illuminated IR sensor or other biometric sensors and capable devices.ĭepending on how you got your copy of Windows 10, you'll need either a 25 character product key or a digital license to activate it. Check PC to determine graphics chip compatibility. Director 12 only available with supported games and graphics chips. 4K functionality available with supported games, monitors, and graphics chips. PC hardware Requirements may vary for games on Windows 10. Windows mixed reality requires a compatible Windows 10 PC and headset PC Requirements may vary for available apps and content. Experience faster start ups, a familiar yet expanded start menu, and great new ways to get stuff done. With Windows 10 home, you'll always have the latest features and security.

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