If you’ve ever needed to retrieve your Windows 10 product key, you’re not alone. Whether you’re reinstalling Windows, upgrading your system, or simply want to keep a record, knowing how to access your product key is important. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to view your product key, and in this post, we’ll explore a few methods you can use.
Method 1: Using Command Prompt
One of the easiest ways to find your Windows 10 product key is through the Command Prompt. Here’s how to do it:
Open Command Prompt: Type “cmd” in the Windows search bar. Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator”.
Enter the Command: In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey
- View Your Product Key: If your device came pre-installed with Windows, you should see your key appear shortly after executing the command.
Method 2: Using Windows PowerShell
Another way to find your product key is by using Windows PowerShell. Here’s the procedure:
Open PowerShell: Right-click the Start button and select “Windows PowerShell (Admin)”.
Run the Command: Type the following command into the PowerShell window and hit Enter:
(Get-WmiObject -query 'select * from SoftwareLicensingService').OA3xOriginalProductKey
- Obtain Your Product Key: Your Windows 10 product key will be displayed if available.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Software
If you prefer a graphical interface or want a more comprehensive view of your software licenses, third-party applications can help you extract your product key. Here are a few recommended tools:
- Belarc Advisor: A reputable local web-based tool that provides a detailed report on your computer and includes your product key.
- ProduKey: This utility is small, lightweight, and specifically designed to retrieve product keys for various software products, including Windows.
These tools are simple to use: just download, install, and follow the prompts to view your product key.
Method 4: Checking the Product Packaging or Certificate of Authenticity
If you purchased a physical copy of Windows 10 or a PC with Windows pre-installed, your product key might be on the packaging or included in the documentation. Additionally, a OEM sticker, often found on laptops or PCs, may contain your product key.
Method 5: Contacting Microsoft Support
If you’re unable to retrieve your product key using the methods detailed above, you can always reach out to Microsoft Support. They can assist you in locating your product key or offer alternatives for activation.
By following these methods, you can easily find your Windows 10 product key whenever necessary. Whether you’re upgrading to a new device or reinstalling your system, having your product key handy makes the process much smoother. Remember to keep it secure for future reference!