Activate Windows with a product key

A product key is a 25-character code that looks like this:

PRODUCT KEY: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

During installation, you will be prompted to enter a product key.
Or, after installation, to enter the product key, select the Start button and then select Settings > System > Activation > Update product key > Change product key.

If an error occurs with online activation, first try the activation troubleshooting in ActivatingWindows 10/11 home, 10/11pro

To activate Windows 10/11 home, 10/11pro by phone:

1. Select Start > Settings > Update and security > Activation.

2. In the Activate Windows now section, select Activate by phone.

3. Select your location (or the location closest to you) from the drop-down list, then select Next.

4. Call one of the available phone numbers listed.
   An automated system will guide you through the activation process.

5. If you are unable to complete the activation successfully, you will be connected to Microsoft support for your region and country.

Or, if you do not see the Activate by phone option:

1. Press the Windows logo key + R, type slui 4 in the Open box and select OK.

2. Select your location (or the location closest to you) from the drop-down list, then select Next.

3. Call one of the available phone numbers listed.
   An automated system will guide you through the activation process.

4. If you are unable to complete the activation successfully, you will be connected to Microsoft support for your region and country.

As Windows 10/11 home, 10/11pro will automatically activate if you are connected to the Internet, you can confirm the activation status by selecting Start > Settings > System > Activation and search Windows.

If an error occurs with online activation, first try the activation troubleshooting in Activate Windows.

To activate Windows 10/11 home, 10/11pro by phone:

1. Select Start > Settings > System > Activation.

2. In the Activate Windows now section, select Activate by phone.