When installing or upgrading to Windows 11, one of the most common questions users ask is whether a product key is required. The answer depends on how you’re installing Windows, what type of license you have, and whether your device already had Windows activated before. Here’s everything you need to know about Windows 11 product keys and activation.

1. What Is a Windows 11 Product Key?

A Windows 11 product key is a 25-character code used to activate your copy of the operating system. It verifies that your Windows installation is genuine and hasn’t been used on more devices than allowed by Microsoft’s license terms. Product keys typically look like this:

XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

2. Do You Always Need a Product Key?

Not necessarily. If your PC came with Windows 10 or Windows 11 preinstalled, your license is usually tied to your hardware. This means Windows 11 will automatically activate once installed or reinstalled on the same device, without entering a key manually. This is called a digital license or digital entitlement.

If you’re installing Windows 11 on a new computer that never had Windows activated, or you’re building a custom PC, then you’ll need a valid product key to activate it.

3. Digital License vs. Product Key

Digital License: This type of activation is linked to your Microsoft account or the hardware of your PC. It doesn’t require a product key to reinstall or reactivate Windows.

Product Key: A traditional 25-character code that must be entered during or after installation to activate Windows.

If you previously upgraded to Windows 11 from an activated copy of Windows 10, your device likely uses a digital license.

4. What Happens If You Don’t Activate Windows 11?

Windows 11 can run without activation, but with some limitations. You’ll still be able to use most features, but you’ll see a watermark on the desktop that says “Activate Windows,” and you won’t be able to customize settings like wallpapers or themes. Functionally, though, the operating system will still work.

5. How to Check Your Activation Status

To verify if your Windows 11 is activated:

Open Settings → System → Activation.

Check the activation state under Activation Status.

If it says “Windows is activated with a digital license,” you’re good to go.

6. Where to Get a Legitimate Windows 11 Product Key

You can purchase a genuine Windows 11 license directly from:

The Microsoft Store (online or in-app)

Authorized retailers or OEMs

Pre-installed on new PCs

Avoid buying keys from unofficial or third-party websites offering large discounts — these keys are often invalid, reused, or pirated.

7. Transferring a Windows 11 License

If you have a retail license, you can transfer it to another PC by deactivating it on the old one and entering the same key on the new device. However, OEM licenses (preinstalled by manufacturers) are permanently tied to the original hardware and cannot be transferred.

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