If you’ve recently installed Windows 10 or are planning to reinstall it, knowing your product key is vital for activation. This unique alphanumeric code ensures that your installation of Windows is genuine and properly licensed. Here are several methods through which you can find your Windows 10 product key.
Methods to Locate Your Windows 10 Product Key
1. Use Command Prompt
One of the quickest ways to find your Windows 10 product key is by using the Command Prompt:
- Search for “cmd” in the Windows search bar.
- Right-click on the Command Prompt and select “Run as administrator.”
- Once the Command Prompt window opens, type the following command and press Enter:
wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey
This command should return your product key if it’s embedded in your system’s BIOS or UEFI firmware.
2. Check the Settings App
You can also look for your product key through the Settings app in Windows 10:
- Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Select Activation on the left sidebar.
While this won’t directly display your product key, it will confirm if your Windows is activated.
3. Use a Third-Party Software
If the above methods don’t yield results, you can use third-party software to recover your product key. Programs like Belarc Advisor or ProduKey can extract your product key easily:
- Download and install a trusted software like ProduKey.
- Run the software, and it will display the product key associated with your Windows installation.
4. Retrieve from Your Microsoft Account
If you purchased Windows 10 digitally from the Microsoft Store, your product key may be linked to your Microsoft account. Visit the Microsoft account webpage and log in to check your purchase history. Here you may find your product key listed.
5. Inspect the Original Packaging
If you bought a physical copy of Windows 10, check the DVD case or the certificate of authenticity (COA) attached to the packaging. The key is usually printed on a sticker.
6. Look for OEM Keys
For laptops and desktops that come pre-installed with Windows 10, the product key is typically embedded within the system firmware. You can find it using the methods mentioned above or in the case documentation provided by the manufacturer.
Conclusion
Finding your Windows 10 product key is essential for maintaining your system’s activation status. Utilizing tools like Command Prompt or third-party software can help you retrieve it if you didn’t save the key when you first set up your device. Always ensure to keep your product key in a safe place for future installations or upgrades.