Windows remains functional without activation, but you'll be locked out of personalization and other non-essential features until it's addressed.

Discover why Windows 7/8 product keys can no longer activate Windows 10/11. Learn how to upgrade or find alternatives for continued support.

Older Windows 7 and Windows 8 keys will no longer activate Windows 10 or Windows 11, Microsoft has announced.

Microsoft will stop old Windows product keys from activating new Windows installs Windows 7 and 8 keys still seem to work for now, but that may be ending.