Check windows product key

Checking your Windows product key is an essential task, especially if you want to ensure your operating system is activated and genuine. Knowing your product key can also facilitate easy reinstallation or troubleshooting. In this blog post, we will explore various methods to check your Windows product key, as well as some important points regarding product key usage.

Methods to Check Your Windows Product Key

1. Using Command Prompt

One of the simplest ways to check your Windows product key is through the Command Prompt. Here’s how to do it:

1. Press the Windows + R keys together to open the Run dialog.
2. Type cmd and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
   wmic path SoftwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKey
4. If your device has an OEM product key, it will be displayed here.

2. Using Windows PowerShell

If you prefer PowerShell over Command Prompt, you can easily retrieve your product key using this method:

1. Press the Windows + X keys and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. In the PowerShell window, enter the following command:
   (Get-WmiObject -query 'select * from SoftwareLicensingService').OA3xOriginalProductKey
3. Your product key should be displayed at the end of the process.

3. Checking the Settings Menu

If you’re using Windows 10 or later, you can check your activation status along with the product key directly through the settings:

1. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
2. Navigate to Update & Security.
3. Click on Activation from the sidebar.
4. Here, you can see your activation status. Note that the actual product key might not be displayed, but you can be assured that the activation status reflects whether your Windows is properly activated.

4. Third-Party Software

If the above methods do not display your product key, there are several third-party applications available that can retrieve it. Tools like Belarc Advisor, NirSoft ProduKey, and Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder can extract the product key from your system and display it. Always ensure that you download software from reputable sources to avoid malware.

Important Points to Consider

• OEM vs Retail Keys: Understand that OEM product keys are usually tied to the hardware they were originally activated on, while retail keys can be transferred between devices.
• Backup Your Product Key: It’s a good idea to back up your product key securely, so you have it on hand for future use or in case of any system malfunctions.
• Windows Activation: Having a genuine product key not only guarantees that your OS is activated but also ensures you receive all the necessary updates and support from Microsoft.

By following these methods, you can easily check your Windows product key and ensure that your operating system is functioning correctly and legally. Whether you’re preparing for a reinstall or simply keeping your records organized, knowing how to access this information can be invaluable.