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

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

The Product Activation Portal enables activation for a wide range of perpetual Microsoft products and supports both connected and non‑connected devices. This evolution ensures activation remains …

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 two methods to which you can activate your …

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 troubleshoot and fix common …

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.

If activation fails, see What to try if you can't install or activate Microsoft 365 or Office for Mac. Installation notes for Microsoft 365 or Office 2024 on a Mac

Linking your Microsoft account with your digital license allows you to reactivate Windows using the Activation troubleshooter whenever you make a significant hardware change.

Oct 20, 2025 · Windows Secure Boot certificate expiration Important: Secure Boot certificates used by most Windows devices are set to expire starting in June 2026. This might affect the ability of certain …