Check windows key microsoft

Applies ToWindows 11 Windows 10 Windows 8.1 Windows 7 Панель мониторинга учетной записи Майкрософт

Ключ продукта Windows представляет собой 25-значный код, используемый для активации Windows. Он выглядит следующим образом:

  • КЛЮЧ ПРОДУКТА: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

Найдите ключ продукта для Windows 10 или Windows 11

В зависимости от того, как вы получили копию Windows 10 или Windows 11, для ее активации потребуется 25-значный ключ продукта или цифровая лицензия. Цифровая лицензия — это метод активации в Windows 10 и Windows 11, который не требует ввода ключа продукта. Если у вас нет одного из этих средств, активацию устройства выполнить не удастся.

Расположение ключа продукта зависит от того, как вы приобрели копию Windows.

Выберите любой из следующих вариантов просмотра дополнительных сведений.

Ключ продукта предварительно установлен на вашем компьютере, указан на его упаковке или сертификате подлинности, прикрепленном к компьютеру. Для получения дополнительных сведений обратитесь к производителю оборудования. Изображения ключей продуктов и наклеек сертификата подлинности см. в статье Как проверить подлинность оборудования.

Ключ продукта указан на наклейке или на карточке внутри коробки, в которой поставляется Windows. Для получения дополнительных сведений обратитесь к розничному продавцу, который продал вам Windows 10 или Windows 11. Как проверить подлинность программного обеспечения.

Найдите ключ продукта в письме с подтверждением, полученном после покупки Windows 10 или Windows 11 в цифровом шкафчике, доступном на веб-сайте розничного продавца.

Ключ продукта будет указан в сообщении электронной почты, которое вы получите для подтверждения покупки вашей цифровой копии Windows. Корпорация Майкрософт хранит записи только тех ключей продуктов, которые были приобретены в интернет-магазине Майкрософт. Чтобы узнать, где вы приобрели свою копию ОС, посетите раздел Журнал заказов. в своей учетной записи Майкрософт.

Если вы бесплатно обновились до Windows 11 с Windows 10 или до Windows 10 бесплатно с Windows 7 или Windows 8.1, у вас должна быть цифровая лицензия вместо ключа продукта.

Если вы приобрели Windows 10 или Windows 11 Pro обновление в приложении Microsoft Store, вы получите цифровую лицензию вместо ключа продукта в письме с подтверждением, отправленном для подтверждения покупки. Этот адрес электронной почты (MSA) будет содержать цифровую лицензию. Вы можете использовать цифровую лицензию для активации.

Дополнительные сведения о цифровых лицензиях и ключах продуктов в Windows 10 и Windows 11 см. в разделе «Методы активации» статьи Активация Windows.

Поиск ключа продукта для Windows 7 или Windows 8.1

При удалении и переустановке Windows 7 или Windows 8.1 обычно требуется ключ продукта. Как правило, если вы приобрели физическую копию Windows, ключ продукта должен быть указан на наклейке или на карточке внутри упаковки, в которой находилась копия Windows. Если операционная система Windows была предустановлена на компьютере, то ключ продукта должен быть на наклейке, прикрепленной к этому устройству. Если вы потеряли ключ продукта или не можете его найти, обратитесь к производителю. Сведения о том, что ключ продукта является подлинным, см. в статьях Как проверить подлинность программного обеспечения и Как проверить подлинность оборудования.

Связанные ссылки

Сведения о том, является ли ваша копия Windows подлинным программным обеспечением Майкрософт, см. на соответствующей странице.

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Are you worried that you may actually be using a pirated copy of Windows 10? If you bought your copy of Windows directly from Microsoft or from a reputable retailer, then you’re probably OK, but software piracy is still a problem. 

Using an unauthorized version of Windows doesn’t just mean that you haven’t paid Microsoft their dues, it can also mean your copy of Window is compromised with spyware or other malware. 

Do You Even Have a Key?

Windows 10 can be legitimately activated in two different ways. A product key is probably the one everyone is most familiar with, but Windows can also be activated using a digital license linked to your Microsoft Account.

On systems activated with a Microsoft Account, there’s no key as such. When you try to check, you’ll only get a message that says “Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.”

Do You Need a Key?

Microsoft is doing things a little differently with Windows 10. When you install the operating system you don’t need a product key to complete the process. You can simply choose to skip the code and get on with it.

Once installed, you have full access to Windows 10. The only functionality that’s cut from Windows 10 when it’s not activated are personalization options and a small bit of text on the wallpaper telling that Windows isn’t activated. Windows will still download and install updates and work as usual.

So if you’re in a hurry to get a key because you believe your computer is going to stop working or isn’t getting security patches, you don’t have to worry. You can save up for a Windows license and buy it when you’re ready.

If you want to use Windows 10 on a secondary computer or in a virtual machine where you don’t care about the minor restrictions imposed by not activating it, you may never have to bother. Microsoft seems cool with it, so until their stance changes you might not actually have to pay any money for a Windows key. 

Why Would Your Copy Be Cracked?

Obviously, if you cracked your copy of Windows yourself you wouldn’t be reading this article. So why would your copy be cracked unbeknownst to you?

The short answer is that the counterfeit software business is big money. You may have bought a cheap copy of Windows 10 from a third-party seller who is in fact selling cracked versions of the operating system. If your computer came preloaded with Windows 10, it might be that the system builder is inflating their profits by cutting Microsoft out and loading compromised Windows copies on their systems.

It doesn’t really matter how your copy of Windows became cracked, what matters is how you can detect if your product key is bogus or not.

How Is Windows Cracked?

The usual way to activate a copy of Windows is by paying for a license or entering the provided key. Windows then authenticates your right to use that copy with Microsoft’s servers. From that point onward, you don’t have to worry about any of it again until the next time you have to reinstall Windows.

Hackers who create ways to circumvent that built-in copy protection have created software known as an “activator”. These little apps fool Windows into thinking it’s received the stamp of approval from Microsoft.

To the average user there’s no easy to spot signs that something is wrong. If you check the activation status of Windows it will simply say that it’s activated. Luckily there’s a way you can check for an activator using the command line.

Checking if You’re Using an Activator

In order to see whether your copy of Windows has been activated with an activator, do the following:

  1. Press the Windows button and R together. This will open the Run dialogue.
  1. Type slmgr.vbs /dli and press OK.
  1. A dialogue box will pop up with license information.

If you see a box like this, which only shows entries for “partial product key” and “license status”, then your copy of Windows is genuine. Instead, if you see “activation expiration” or “renewal interval” it’s likely that your Windows installation has been cracked using an activator hack.

Use a Product ID Checker

One simple way to make sure if your product key is legitimate is to use a product key checker. These programs are not made by Microsoft and you should always use a virus scanner to check them before running any such application. 

While there are a few choices, two of the most popular are the Microsoft PID Checker (not by Microsoft!) and the Ultimate PID checker. In general, PID applications are portable. That means you don’t need to install them and can simply run them from a flash drive or any other storage location. 

Simply enter your product key and the program will tell you if it’s a real key or not. Just remember that all this software does is validate the key, it doesn’t tell you whether you’re running a cracked version of Windows or not!

Ask Microsoft if the Key Is Real

The most foolproof way to find out if your license key is a real one, is to go to the source. No, not the one from The Matrix, we’re talking about Microsoft. You can get in touch with a customer service representative from Microsoft and tell them you suspect your copy of Windows isn’t genuine and that you’ve been sold a fake key. 

They can verify this for you and if it turns out it is indeed a fake key, take it from there. Sadly, you aren’t entitled to a genuine key even if you have been scammed. So you’re out of luck in that regard.

What to Do if Your Product Key Is Fake

So if it does turn out that you’ve been given a fake copy of Windows, what can you do? As we mentioned just now, Microsoft has a piracy reporting facility, so you should at least let them know if someone is running a crooked business selling fake copies of their software.

As for your system, the first thing you need to do is reinstall a clean copy of Windows 10. It is possible to simply change the cracked installation to one using a legitimate key you’ve purchased from a good retailer. However, we wouldn’t trust that the cracked copy doesn’t have further tampering. If possible, begin with a clean slate.

Sadly, you do have to pull out even more money to do the right thing, but as we said at the outset of this article you can keep going with an unactivated copy of Windows for as long as you need to, until you can get the cash together.

If you don’t feel like spending more money and don’t mind something other than Windows, you could also use this as an opportunity to try out Linux. For most desktop users, Ubuntu Linux is a good start and you’ll find plenty of information on our sites to get your started. 

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PIDMS Office & Windows License Key Checker (Free):

Microsoft Office and Windows Error Codes

Microsoft Office and Windows Error Codes: Their Meanings Explained

Error Code Description
0xC004C008 Active key – This means the license key has been used multiple times but can still be activated using our Get Confirmation ID tool.
0xC004C020 Active key – Need to Get Confirmation ID to activate.
0xC004C060 Dead key – Can’t be used anymore. Buy a new key from us.
0xC004C003 Key blocked – Can’t use this key. Buy a new key from us.
0xC004C004 Fake key – Buy a new key from us.
Unsupported The key doesn’t support getting an error code on this website.

Microsoft PID Checker: Verify Your Microsoft Product Keys Instantly for Free

If you’re a Microsoft Office or Windows user, ensuring your product key’s validity is crucial. At our website, we provide a free Microsoft PID Checker tool to help you verify your Microsoft license keys. Whether it’s for Office, Windows, Server, or Project, this tool is fast, reliable, and user-friendly. Check if your key is active, blocked, invalid, or dead with just a few clicks!

What Is Microsoft PID Checker?

A Microsoft PID Checker is an online tool that validates the status of Microsoft product keys. It helps users confirm whether a license key is genuine and active or blocked, dead, or fake. Our PID checker provides instant results for all major Microsoft products, ensuring you know the status of your key before use.

Why Use Our PID Checker?

  1. Free to Use: No charges to check your keys.
  2. Wide Compatibility: Supports Microsoft Office, Windows, Server, and Project license keys.
  3. Error Code Insights: Decode key status with detailed error explanations.
  4. Integrated Services: GetCID tool recommendations for invalid keys.
  5. Ease of Use: Simple interface for quick validation.

Windows and Office Error Codes and Their Meanings

When you check your key, our PID Checker might display an error code. Here’s what they mean:

  • 0xC004C008 / 0xC004C020:
    Your key requires a confirmation ID. Use our GetCID tool to quickly generate a CID and activate your product.
  • 0xC004C060:
    This key is dead. Purchase a new, affordable license key from our website.
  • 0xC004C003:
    Your license key is blocked. Get a new, genuine key at competitive prices from us.
  • 0xC004C004:
    The key is fake. Replace it with a reliable key from our store.
  • Unsupported:
    The key cannot be verified. Consider buying a supported and valid key from us.

How to Fix Common Microsoft Activation Error Codes for Windows 10, 11 & Office 2021, 2019,2016 ect version

When using the Microsoft PID Checker, you might encounter certain error codes that need resolution. Here’s how to fix some of the most common errors for Windows 10, 11, and Office:

How to Fix Error Code: 0xC004C008 for Windows & Office

When you see Error Code: 0xC004C008 on your Windows or Office,It means your license key has been used multiple times and now requires activation through the telephone activation method, which needs a Confirmation ID (CID) for completion.

Steps to fix Error Code: 0xC004C008 for Office:

  1. Open Office App: Launch any Office app like Word or Excel.
  2. Activation Wizard: Navigate to File > Account > Change Product Key > Activate Product.
  3. Select Telephone Activation: Choose “I want to activate software by telephone.”
  4. Get Installation ID: The wizard will show an Installation ID (IID). Copy it.
  5. Generate CID: Use our GetCID tool, input the IID, and get your Confirmation ID.
  6. Activate Office: Enter the CID into the wizard and complete activation.

Steps to fix Error Code: 0xC004C008 for Windows:

  1. Run Activation Wizard: Press Win + R, type SLUI 4, and hit Enter.
  2. Select Region: Choose your country or region.
  3. Get Installation ID: Note down the displayed IID.
  4. Use GetCID Tool: Enter the IID on our GetCID tool page to generate the CID.
  5. Activate Windows: Enter the CID in the wizard to activate.

How to Fix Error Code: 0xC004C020 for Windows & Office

Error Code: 0xC004C020 occurs when a license key is restricted for online activation but can still be activated using a Confirmation ID (CID). This means your license key has been used multiple times and now requires activation through the telephone activation method, which needs a Confirmation ID (CID) for completion.

Steps to fix Error Code: 0xC004C020 for Office:

  1. Open an Office app and go to File > Account > Change Product Key.
  2. Choose Telephone Activation to get an Installation ID.
  3. Use the GetCID tool to generate a Confirmation ID.
  4. Enter the CID in the wizard to complete activation.

Steps to fix Error Code: 0xC004C020 for Windows:

  1. Open the Run command, type SLUI 4, and press Enter.
  2. Choose your region and note the Installation ID.
  3. Use our GetCID tool to generate the CID.
  4. Input the CID in the wizard and activate your product.

How to Fix Error Code: 0xC004C060 for Windows & Office

Error Code: 0xC004C060 signifies that the license key is no longer valid (commonly referred to as a “dead key”).

  • Solution: Replace the dead key by purchasing a new, genuine license key from our website. We offer affordable, authentic keys for Windows, Office, and other Microsoft products to ensure hassle-free activation.

How to Fix Error Code: 0xC004C003 for Windows & Office

When you encounter Error Code: 0xC004C003, it means the license key has been blocked by Microsoft and cannot be used for activation.

  • Solution: Purchase a verified and genuine license key from our trusted platform. Blocked keys can no longer be activated, so avoid delays by replacing the key with a legitimate one.

How to Fix Error Code: 0xC004C004 for Windows & Office

Error Code: 0xC004C004 indicates that the license key is counterfeit or fake and cannot activate your software.

  • Solution: Buy an original and genuine license key from our store. Don’t risk using fake keys that could lead to system issues or incomplete activations.

Why Choose Our Services for Activation Errors?

  • GetCID Tool: Quickly generate a Confirmation ID for error codes like 0xC004C008 and 0xC004C020.
  • Affordable Keys: Replace dead, blocked, or fake keys with legitimate ones at competitive prices from our store.
  • User-Friendly Process: Activate your Windows or Office easily with our automated tools.
  • 24/7 Support: Get help whenever you need it.

No matter the error, we provide solutions tailored to your needs. Activate your Microsoft products today with ease!

How to Use the Microsoft PID Checker on Our Website

  1. Visit our PID Checker Tool page.
  2. Enter your Microsoft license key into the designated field.
  3. Click “Check Key.”
  4. Instantly view the status and corresponding error code (if applicable).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to check if a Microsoft product key is valid?

Simply use our PID Checker tool. Enter your key, and it will instantly validate its status.

2. How to check if my Office or Windows license is genuine?

Use our tool to ensure your key is legitimate. It supports all major Microsoft Office and Windows versions.

3. Can I check product keys for older Windows versions?

Yes, the PID Checker works for Windows 10, Windows 11, and even older versions like Windows 7 and 8.

5. Can I still get Microsoft Office for free?

No, Microsoft Office is no longer free, but we offer affordable license keys that include GetCID for activation.

How to Interpret Your Results

When you use our PID Checker, you may receive one of these outcomes:

  • Active Key: Your license is ready to use.
  • Blocked or Fake Key: Replace it by purchasing a new one from us.
  • Needs Confirmation ID: Use our GetCID tool for quick activation.

How to Get a Confirmation ID (CID) for Microsoft Office or Windows?

If your PID Checker indicates you need a CID:

  1. Visit our GetCID tool.
  2. Enter your Installation ID.
  3. Generate a CID in seconds and activate your product.

Why Choose Us for Your License Key and CID Needs?

  • Affordable Pricing: Save money on Office and Windows license keys.
  • Comprehensive Tools: Use our PID Checker and GetCID generator for a seamless activation process.

How to Find Your Windows or Office Key

  1. To FInd your Windows Product or License key :
    • Open Command Prompt (CMD).
    • Run the command: wmic path SoftwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKey
      How to Find Your Windows or Office Key

  2. Via System Settings:
    • Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
    • Find your key in the activation section.
  3. Using Third-Party Tools:
    • Tools like ProduKey or Belarc Advisor can retrieve your license key.
  4. To Find License key for Microsoft Office:
    Check your email for the original purchase receipt or use third-party software tools to retrieve the installed key.

Get Started Today

Use our free Microsoft PID Checker to verify your product keys. Need to activate your Office or Windows? Purchase genuine keys or use our GetCID tool for instant CID generation. Don’t waste time with unreliable methods—trust us for all your Microsoft license and CID needs.

Explore Our Tools:

  • Free Microsoft PID Checker.
  • Affordable license keys with free CID.
  • Instant GetCID generator for seamless activation.

Start now and experience hassle-free Microsoft product activation with us!

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Find your Windows product key using the Command Prompt, PowerShell, or the Windows Registry

Download Article

  • Finding your Windows Product Key
  • |

  • Using Command Prompt
  • |

  • Using PowerShell
  • |

  • Using the Registry
  • |

  • Video
  • |

  • Expert Q&A
  • |

  • Tips
  • |

  • Warnings

Do you need to find your Windows product key? The Windows product key is necessary if you want to install Windows on a different computer or reinstall it on your the same computer. You can find the Windows product key using your computer’s Command Prompt, PowerShell program, or within the Windows Registry. This wikiHow article teaches you how to find your Windows product key so that you can activate Windows.[1]

Things You Should Know

  • You can find your Windows product key using the Command Prompt, Powershell, or the Windows Registry.
  • If you purchased Windows from a licensed retailer, you can find your Windows key in the box that it came in.
  • If you bought a digital version of Windows or an upgrade online or from the Microsoft Store, you should receive your product key in a confirmation email.
  1. Step 1 Find your product key if your PC comes with Windows pre-installed.

    If your PC comes with Windows pre-installed, you do not need to use your product key to activate Windows. It’s already running. If you want to save a backup copy, you can do so, using the Command Prompt, PowerShell, or your Windows Registry. You can also find your Windows product key within the packaging your PC came with or within the Certificate of Authenticity.

    • Most newer computers do not have the Windows product key printed on a sticker on the bottom of the computer like they used to. However, you should be able to find the Windows product key within the package your computer came in.
  2. Step 2 Find your product key if you bought a physical copy of Windows.

    If you bought a physical copy of Windows 10 or 11 from an authorized retailer, you can find your Windows product key within the box that Windows came in.

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  3. Step 3 Find your product key if you bought a digital copy of Windows.

    If you bought a digital copy of Windows online or through the Microsoft Store, either as a new copy or an upgrade, you should have received a confirmation email. Your Windows product key should be in the confirmation email.

  4. Step 4 Find your Windows product key if you have a volume licensing agreement or MSDN subscription.

    If you have a volume licensing agreement or MSDN subscription, you can find your Windows product key in the web portal for your program.[2]

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  1. Step 1 Click the Windows...

    Click the Windows Start menu

    Windows Start

    . It’s the icon with the Windows logo in the taskbar at the bottom of the screen. You can do this in Windows 10 or 11.

  2. Step 2 Type CMD.

    This displays the Command Prompt in the Windows Start menu.

  3. Step 3 Open the Command...

    Open the Command Prompt as an administrator

    Windows cmd

    . To open the Command Prompt as an administrator, right-click the Command Prompt and click Run as Administrator.

    • You must be signed in to Windows with an administrative account in order to open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
  4. Step 4 Type the command to display your product key.

    To display your product key, type the following command and press Enter.[3]

    • wmic path softwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKey
  5. Step 5 Note the product key.

    Your product key is the 25-letter key displayed under the text that says «OA3xOriginalProductKey.»

  6. Step 6 Save a copy of the product key.

    You can either take a screenshot of the results or write down the key to ensure you have access to it if needed.

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  1. Step 1 Right-click the Windows Start menu icon.

    It’s the icon that resembles the Windows logo in the taskbar at the bottom of the screen. Right-clicking the Windows Start menu displays a context menu. This will work on both Windows 10 and 11.

  2. Step 2 Click Windows PowerShell (Admin).

    This will open PowerShell as an administrator.

    • You must be logged into Windows with an administrative account in order run PowerShell as an administrator.
  3. Step 3 Enter the command to display the product key and press ↵ Enter.

    The command is as follows:[4]

    • powershell "(Get-WmiObject -query 'select * from SoftwareLicensingService').OA3xOriginalProductKey"
  4. Step 4 Note your product key.

    You should see the product key appear directly below the command that you entered; this is your product key.

    • The product key will be 25 characters long. If you don’t see the product key appear immediately, enter the code a second time and press Enter.[5]
  5. Step 5 Save a copy of the product key.

    You can either take a screenshot of the results or write down the key to ensure you have access to it if needed.

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  1. Step 1 Press ⊞ Win+R to open Run.

    Pressing the Windows key and R at the same time will open the Run program. This will work on both Windows 10 and 11.

  2. Step 2 Type regedit and press ↵ Enter.

    This will open the Registry Editor, where you can find the Windows Product Key.

    • Warning: Editing files within the Registry Editor can cause permanent damage to your Windows operating system. Do not edit or move any files unless you know what you are doing.
  3. Step 3 Navigate to the SoftwareProtectionPlatform folder.

    You will see a series of folders listed in the panel to the left. Open the following folders to navigate to the «SoftwareProtectionPlatform» folder.

    • Open the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE folder.
    • Open the SOFTWARE folder.
    • Open the Microsof folder.
    • Open the Windows NT folder
    • Open the CurrentVersion folder.
    • Open the SoftwareProtectionPlatform folder.
  4. Step 4 Click the SoftwareProtectionPlatform folder.

    This displays all the files within this folder in the large panel on the right.

  5. Step 5 Double-click the BackupProductKeyDefault file.

    This displays your 25-digit product key in the field that says «Value Data.» You can also read the product key under «Data» next to the BackupProductKeyDefault file.[6]

  6. Step 6 Save a copy of the product key.

    You can either take a screenshot of the results or write down the key to ensure you have access to it if needed.

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Add New Question

  • Question

    How do you check your Windows Product Key?

    Luigi Oppido is the Owner and Operator of Pleasure Point Computers in Santa Cruz, California. Luigi has over 25 years of experience in general computer repair, data recovery, virus removal, and upgrades. He is also the host of the Computer Man Show! broadcasted on KSQD covering central California for over two years.

    Computer & Tech Specialist

    Expert Answer

    The Product Key is encoded in your computer, in BIOS. To access it, you will have to use a third-party software, like Produkey or Show Key Plus.

  • Question

    What is a Windows product key and how do I find it?

    Yaffet Meshesha is a Computer Specialist and the Founder of Techy, a full-service computer pickup, repair, and delivery service. With over eight years of experience, Yaffet specializes in computer repairs and technical support. Techy has been featured on TechCrunch and Time.

    Computer Specialist

    Expert Answer

    A Windows product key is a 25-character key that tells Microsoft that your Windows operating system is authentic. The way you find it will depend on how you received the product key initially, but if you can’t find it, I recommend Magical Jelly Bean, which is a product key finder.

  • Question

    What is a Windows Product Key? How do I get one?

    Windows Product Key is a unique key for each customer. This key is used to activate your Windows operating system. You receive the Product Key when you purchase a Windows OS, or you can buy it separately from Microsoft.

See more answers

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  • You can also use the free program Magical Jelly Bean to help you retrieve your Windows product key.[7]

Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

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  • Using someone else’s product key to activate your own Windows software is against Microsoft’s terms of use.

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About This Article

Article SummaryX

1. Open PowerShell.
2. Type «(Get-WmiObject -query ‘select * from SoftwareLicensingService’).OA3xOriginalProductKey» and press Enter.
3. Note your product key.

Did this summary help you?

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,302,646 times.

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  • Use Windows Key Checker To Check Your Product Key

By Sarah |
Last Updated

Once you bought a genuine Windows, a product key should come with it. You can use this key to activate your Windows easily. However, sometimes, users don’t know their system status and fail in activating Windows. They definitely need a good Windows key checker to help them check the Windows product key and then decide what to do next.

What Is Windows Key Checker

Windows key checker refers to the tools used to check your product key of Windows systems. It’s a good way to judge whether your Windows is genuine or not. According to Microsoft, after you bought a copy of Windows, the corresponding product key will be kept on a label or card inside the box. But what is a Windows product key indeed?

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Windows Product Key or Digital License

A product key is actually a 25-character code that can be used to activate Windows directly. It helps you determine whether your copy of Windows is genuine or not and whether your system has been used on more PCs that Microsoft Software License Terms allow or not.

  • Windows 10 activation: in general, your Windows 10 system will be activated automatically with the digital license (called a digital entitlement in Windows 10); you don’t need to type the product key manually.
  • Windows 8.1 & Windows 7: you need to find the product keys contained in the confirmation email you received after purchasing the Windows system or in the box Windows came in. Then, you should enter the correct product key as required.

How To Fix When Change Product Key Does Not Work?

How to Find Your Windows Product Key

Where’s my product key

Where do you find your Windows product key? That depends on how you get your Windows system.

  • New PC running Windows: the product key has been already preinstalled on the PC or included on the COA (Certificate of Authenticity) connected to the PC.
  • A copy of Windows 10 from authorized retailer: on a label or card inside the box.
  • A digital copy of Windows 10 from authorized retailer: in the confirmation email or in a digital locker that can be accessed via the retailer’s website.
  • A digital copy from a Microsoft website: in the confirmation email.
  • Upgrade to Windows 10 from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1: a digital license instead of a product key.
  • Windows 10 Store App: a digital license you received.

Show Your Windows 10 Product Key Using Command Prompt

  1. Press Windows + S to open Windows search bar.
  2. Type cmd into the search box.
  3. Right click on Command Prompt.
  4. Choose Run as administrator.
  5. Type wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey and press Enter.
  6. The product key will then appear.

Check in Command Prompt

How to Check If Your Windows Key Is Genuine

Which Windows product key checker should you choose? Here, I’ll list the most popular 3 choices of Windows 10 product key checker.

One: Windows Settings

The most direct way to check whether the Windows product key you have used is legit or not is opening Settings app directly.

  1. Click on the Start button in the lower left corner.
  2. Navigate to the Settings icon (look like a gear) and click.
  3. Choose Update & Security.
  4. Select Activation from the left pane.
  5. Check the activation status.
  6. If it says your Windows is activated, the product key is legit. If any error occurs, you should doubt that the key is not legit or legal.

Activation status

Two: Command Prompt

  1. Run Command Prompt tool as administrator by steps mentioned earlier or other ways.
  2. Type slmgr /dli and press Enter.
  3. The corresponding license information will appear with the activation status.
  4. If the status says Licensed, your product key is legit. You should suspect that your key is not valid if you say something else.

How To Recover Files Using CMD: Ultimate User Guide.

Three: Third-party Windows Key Checker

There are lots of third-party Windows key checkers designed for checking the product key of Windows 10 or other systems. You may choose a reliable one to use: Microsoft PID Checker (for Windows 10 and Server 2016), Ultimate PID Checker (for systems before Windows 10), and so on.

About The Author

Position: Columnist

Sarah has been working as an editor at MiniTool since she graduated from university. Sarah aims at helping users with their computer problems such as disk errors and data loss. She feels a sense of accomplishment to see that users get their issues fixed relying on her articles. Besides, she likes to make friends and listen to music after work.

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