- By Shahzad Anjum 23-Nov-2023
- 170
Activating Windows 10 is a straightforward process, and you can do it using either a digital license or a product key. Here are step-by-step instructions for both methods:
Activation with a Digital License:
1. Check the activation status:
- Go to Settings by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear-shaped icon (Settings).
- Select "Update & Security" and then click on "Activation."
2. Connect a Microsoft Account:
- If you haven't already, link your Microsoft account to your Windows 10 device. This is crucial for a digital license.
- In the "Activation" settings, click on "Add an account" and follow the prompts to sign in with your Microsoft account.
3. Activate Windows:
- Once your Microsoft account is linked, your digital license will be associated with your hardware.
- Windows 10 should activate automatically, but if it doesn't, click on "Activate" to manually trigger the activation process.
Activation with a Product Key:
1. Access Activation Settings:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
2. Enter the Product Key:
- If you have a product key, click on "Change product key" and enter the 25-character key.
- Click "Next" and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Activate online:
- If your device is connected to the internet, Windows will attempt to activate online automatically.
- If successful, you'll see a confirmation message.
4. Activate by phone (if necessary):
If online activation fails, you may have the option to activate by phone. Follow the on-screen instructions, and you'll receive a set of numbers to input for activation.
Troubleshooting Tips:
1. Check for Typos:
- Ensure that you've entered the product key correctly. Pay attention to letters and numbers and avoid confusing characters like 'O' and '0' or 'l' and '1.'
2. Internet Connection:
Ensure that your device is connected to the internet during the activation process.
3. Contact Microsoft Support:
- If you encounter issues, you can contact Microsoft Support for assistance.
Remember, using genuine Windows and activating it is crucial for security, updates, and access to all features. If you're experiencing difficulties or have questions specific to your situation, referring to Microsoft's official support resources is always a good idea.
