How to check windows product key

If you’re looking to find your Windows product key, whether for reinstallation purposes, transferring your license, or simply for record-keeping, there are several simple methods to check it. This guide will explore the different ways you can retrieve your Windows product key, ensuring you can access it easily when needed.

Methods to Check Your Windows Product Key

1. Using Command Prompt

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

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type cmd and hit 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. Your Windows product key will be displayed, if it’s available.

2. Using PowerShell

PowerShell can also be utilized to retrieve your Windows product key. Here’s the procedure:

1. Search for “PowerShell” in the Start menu and open it.
2. Type the following command and hit Enter:
   (Get-WmiObject -query 'select * from SoftwareLicensingService').OA3xOriginalProductKey
3. Your product key will be shown in the console.

3. Checking the Registry

If you prefer looking through your system files, the Windows Registry also contains your product key:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type regedit and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to the following path:
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersion
4. Look for a key named “DigitalProductId” or “ProductId”. While the product key isn’t displayed in plain text, it can be extracted with third-party tools.

4. Using Third-Party Software

Numerous third-party programs are designed to reveal your Windows product key quickly and easily. Some popular options include:

• Belarc Advisor: Provides a detailed overview of your computer, including the product key.
• ProduKey: A lightweight utility that displays the keys of many Microsoft products installed on your PC.

5. Finding the Product Key on the Physical Media

If you purchased a physical copy of Windows, the product key may be found on the installation disc packaging or inside the box. If you bought a laptop with Windows pre-installed, the product key might be on a sticker located at the bottom of the laptop or in the battery compartment.

6. Checking Your Microsoft Account

If you’ve linked your Windows license to your Microsoft account, you can also find information about your product key:

1. Visit the Microsoft account website and sign in.
2. Go to the “Devices” section.
3. Your Windows product key details may be listed there.

Conclusion

Retrieving your Windows product key is essential for various purposes, from reinstalling the operating system to troubleshooting issues. By using the methods outlined above, you should be able to access your product key without any hassle. Always remember to keep your product key in a secure place to avoid future complications.