Seems a bit difficult to find out the Windows 10 product key. Don’t worry we have got you covered with this article on all the details about Microsoft Windows and product keys.

What are Product Keys?

Product Keys are usually unique, alphanumeric codes that can be of any length, which is required by many software programs during installation. These keys help the software developers to make sure that each copy of their software was purchased legally.

Moreover, it’s now a general rule that if you are paying for a software program, then it will require a product key during installation.

Windows 10 Product Key

In some cases, Windows is automatically activated using the digital license. However, in most cases, Windows 10 requires you to enter a product key; it is a 25-character code, formatted as XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX, contains both letters and numbers.

Also, the 25-character key should be according to the version of Windows you own. Furthermore, Microsoft provides these keys to activate a single copy of Windows on a computer.

Three types of Product Key

There are three types of Windows 10 Activation Product Keys defined below:

1. RTM Generic Key (retail)

These are the ones that you get with retail copy Windows when you buy from a retail store or an online site. They either come inside the box if you have the boxed copy of Windows or if you receive them by email if you buy one digitally.

2. Default Product Keys for Windows 10 OEM Activation 3.0

These keys come pre-installed on new OEM PCs. They are digitally tied to the motherboard on the machine, so they can’t be transferred between PCs like retail keys. However, if you change the motherboard on an OEM PC, then you will have to buy a new license key to activate Windows on your computer.

 3. Microsoft Generic Volume Keys or KMS Client Setup Key

These keys are meant for corporations and governmental agencies. This type of Windows 10 activation key is managed by IT administrators who control licenses for company computers.

How Do Windows Product Keys Work?

Windows Product key is the way to authenticate a copy of Windows. Moreover, when you enter a valid activation key, Windows then sends the key to Microsoft servers for further authentication. If you have genuine product keys, your copy of Windows 10 will be activated. However, when you buy a product key, ensure to buy it from a reputable source. However, Windows product keys are unique, and none of the product keys are the same.           

FAQs

Q. Does Windows 10 need a product key?

It depends, as in most cases, Windows 11 and Windows 10 activate automatically using a digital license and don’t require you to enter a product key.

Q. What happens if you dont activate Windows?

If you don’t activate Windows, some of the personalized features are greyed out. You won’t be able to customize the Start menu/Taskbar/lock screen/title bar/fonts or change wallpapers, windows colors, themes, etc.

Q. Is it worth it to activate Windows 10?

If you don’t activate Windows 10, Then Windows may only download critical updates for your device. Moreover, you might miss some security or optional updates. Your PC can also have some latest downloads, services, apps, or driver updates from Microsoft.