Learn how to activate Windows using a product key or digital license, check your activation status, and link your Microsoft account.

Learn how to find a Windows product key for activation, and when you'll use a digital license instead.

Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. There are two methods to which you can activate your …

Activation helps verify that your copy of Windows is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. This article will help you troubleshoot and fix common …

Learn how to use the Activation troubleshooter to resolve common activation issues in Windows.

You can also try our guided support in your browser to help with activation issues. I thought this device included Microsoft 365 or a non-subscription version of Office.

The Product Activation Portal enables activation for a wide range of perpetual Microsoft products and supports both connected and non‑connected devices. This evolution ensures activation remains …

This article defines product activation and describes when and how to activate a Microsoft product. It also explains how to contact a Microsoft Product Activation Center and contains additional product …

If you're not activated, complete the activation process with the steps you see on the Activation page. If you experience an error while activating, see Get help with Windows activation errors.

In summary, a product key is used during installation, while an activation code is used to activate the software afterwards. Both are essential for ensuring a legitimate and functional software experience.