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How to Locate Your Activated Windows Product Key

Learn where to find your Windows product key and how to check whether Windows is activated.

First, Check Your Activation Status

  1. Right-click the Start button.

  2. Select Settings.

  3. Go to SystemActivation.

You should see a message such as:

  • Windows is activated

  • Windows is activated with a digital license

  • Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account

If Windows is activated with a digital license, you may not need to enter a product key when reinstalling Windows on the same device.

Check Your Purchase Email

If you purchased Windows online, your complete 25-character product key should be included in your order confirmation or delivery email.

A Windows product key looks like this:

XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

Remember to check your Spam, Junk, or Promotions folder if you cannot find the email.

Check for a Product Key Stored on Your Computer

Some computers have a Windows product key stored in their firmware.

  1. Right-click the Start button.

  2. Select Terminal (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).

  3. Select Yes if prompted.

  4. Copy and paste the following command:


(Get-CimInstance -ClassName SoftwareLicensingService).OA3xOriginalProductKey
  1. Press Enter.

If a product key is stored on the computer, it will appear on the next line.

If nothing appears, your device may use a digital license, or the key may not be stored in the computer’s firmware.

Important Information

Windows normally hides the complete product key for security reasons. Some methods may only show the original key supplied with the computer—not a key purchased or entered later.

If you bought Windows from us, the most reliable place to find your product key is your order confirmation email.

For your security, never share your complete product key publicly or with anyone you do not trust.

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