Windows product keys remain to be a favorite topic to millions of Microsoft users. As Microsoft continues to release update after update on its latest products and operating system, its users will always have questions as to what to do with them. And with Microsoft allowing its users to upgrade to Windows 10 for free until next year, there are still concerns whether you need to reinstall and get a new product key. To help resolve some of the confusion surrounding it, here are answers to the six most commonly asked questions about Windows product keys.
Product keys are extremely important and you should know that every product key is like a fingerprint. One product key is devoted to one Office product. You can’t use a single product key to go around licensing different Office products, even if you are trying to license the same version of the software. That’s why it is so important you always keep your product key, keep it safe somewhere, and be ready with that product key should you ever need to uninstall and reinstall your Microsoft products.
Here are a few questions about Microsoft product keys that can help you understand why they are used, how they work, and how to use them should the need ever arise. Keep in mind, if you are running your Microsoft products on a computer and have been for some time, or if you aren’t going to be switching computers, you don’t need to worry about using your product key. Emergencies and unexpected events do occur, however, which is why it’s important to keep your Microsoft Office product key where you can always have access to it. You can’t install and authorize your software without it.
Everything you need to know about Windows 10 product keys
Can I install and Use Windows 10 Even Without a Product Key?
Yes. Windows 10 can be downloaded for free and can be installed without a product key. This is provided that the current product you have has been installed with a legit product key purchased directly from Microsoft. Otherwise, Microsoft will require you to reinstall the latest software with a legit product key. Once you download the latest software or product fix and, your system will run and will prompt you to perform several commands. But you may upgrade to Windows 10 without a product key. Here's how:
- Download Windows 10 software update file straight from Microsoft.
- You can either use a download tool or go to Windows 10 Software Download page to directly download the file.
- Begin installation process as directed.
- Click on the appropriate button.
Once the program starts installing, a window will pop up with instructions for you to provide the product key to “Activate Windows.” Just click on the “I don't have a product key” link and the installation procedure will continue. If another window pops up with the same instruction, simply look for a similar link and skip the process.
Installing Windows 10 without a product key means the system is not activated. Luckily, an inactive version of Windows 10 doesn't have a lot of restrictions. However, you will constantly be notified by a watermark at the screen's bottom-right corner urging you to activate Windows 10.
Do I need a product key for older versions of the OS?
You do not need a product key if you upgrade to Windows 10 if your previous operating system version is an appropriately and legally installed and activated Windows 7 or Windows 8.1. You can just run Setup from inside the current installation, and your computer or laptop will not be prompted to enter a valid product key. Once the upgrade is completed, your Windows 10 copy will be activated via a digital license. You can also do a clean install of Windows 10 on a PC that was previously upgraded by using a bootable installation media. You also do not need a product key for this Just choose the Skip this Step option when you're prompted to enter a key.
Since the device had already received a digital license during the earlier upgrade, Windows 10 will automatically activate after the installation has been completed. However, you will need a product key if you are using an installation media that can be booted when clean installing on a device that has not been upgraded to Windows 10. You can use a product key from a similar edition of Windows 7 and Windows 8 and 8.1 starting from build 10586.
Can I use one product key to install the latest Windows on my other computers or laptops?
No. You could try, but your other devices might encounter problems with the system upgrade. Technically, you can only use one product key to install Windows on one computer or laptop. If you want to install Windows 10 on every laptop or computer you own, you would either need to purchase a product key for each one or get a volume license to utilize the same product key.
How do I Find my Windows 10 Product Key?
A product key or license is included in every legally bought Windows 10 system. A copy of the product key will be listed in your Microsoft Account. You will also receive a copy of the key in a confirmation email. Check your junk mail folder if you didn't receive it or log on to Microsoft Store, go to Downloads, then Product Keys and click on the Subscription page. If you bought a new computer that's preinstalled with Windows 10, the product key would automatically be stored in the motherboard's firmware. You can recover it by doing the following steps:
- Press the Windows key + X keys
- Click on Command Prompt (Admin)
- Type in the following: wmic path Software Licensing Service get OA3xOriginalProductKey on the command prompt
Can another Windows CD be used for installing as long as an original product key is used?
Windows product keys are not strictly tied to a specific disc, only to a particular version of the system. This means that you can use someone else's retail copy of Windows system, like Windows 10, to install on the computer as long as the product key used is your own distinct key.
Is it True That a Working Product Key is Included on a Windows CD/DVD?
No. There's no product key stored on the disc or ISO disc image of retail bought copies of Windows 10, Windows 7, or Windows 8. But there might be a product key saved in a restore disc that came from a prominent computer manufacturer. However, this key will not work if you reinstall Windows 10 because it's just a generic key for PC builders.
You need a unique product key when installing or reinstalling Windows 10. Product keys are crucial in ensuring that the Windows system runs smoothly. However, there are a lot of questions regarding its importance and how it can be used.
Why SoftwareKeep is the Right Place to Buy Windows?
SoftwareKeep is a trusted software reseller and a Microsoft Certified Partner. We exist to make technology accessible by helping people like you choose the perfect product, get a great deal, and install it easily – so you can enjoy your software immediately. If you’re looking for genuine Microsoft software at the cheapest price – complete with 24/7 customer support and advice – you’re in the right place.