Wondering how to find a product key on Windows 11?
If you are unaware of the location of the Windows 11 license key or don’t know how to find it, then read through this article.
A product key is generally a 25-character, alphanumeric code used to activate the copy of your Windows and that, if lost, can be found using several methods.
The product key ensures that the copy of Windows being used is genuine, and Windows won’t get activated if the key is invalid.
Here, we will discuss how to find the product key on Windows 11 and some tips to protect it.
How To Find Windows 11 Product Key?
The way of locating a Windows 11 product key is similar to that of Windows 10, except for a few subtle differences.
The product key is something the users generally only think of once required.
There are several ways to find the Windows 11 license key. If you need to know the product key, here is how to extract it from Windows 11.
1) By Using The Command Prompt
The easiest and most convenient thing that can be done is to use the Command Prompt to find the Windows 11 license key.
For this, you must have a Windows-activated computer to retrieve the code.
Here is how you can do it:
- Type “cmd” in the Windows Search and select to run Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Click Yes on the UAC prompt and type the following command:
“wmic path SoftwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKey”
After doing this, the original product key will be displayed on the screen.
2) Find Your Product Key In The Registry
The next thing that you can do to find the Windows 11 product key is to use the Windows Registry Editor.
Finding the product key in the registry will help with reinstallations, activations, troubleshooting, compliance, and documentation.
Ensure you have backed up the registry before making any changes. However, to find the product key, follow the steps:
- Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialogue box.
- Now, open the Registry Editor with admin access, type “regedit,” and press “Ctrl + Shift + Enter.”
- Click Yes to confirm from the UAC prompt.
- Take the help of the navigation pane to reach the following Registry key, or you can also use the address bar for copy-pasting the location:
“HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\SoftwareProtectionPlatform”
Now, search for the BackupproductkeyDefault key on the right-side pane. Double-click on it, and you will see the product key in the Data column.
3) Check Your Purchase Receipt Or Email
The product key is in the purchase receipt or your email ID. If the user has purchased the license from any online retailer like Amazon, then the user is entitled to receive it via email.
It is equally important to check the online retailer’s order section to find the information for retrieving the key or the exact process of the initial key delivery.
Remember to look for the physical sticks on the back of your device and look for the product key.
Ensure your product key is secure and avoid sharing it with unauthorized individuals.
4) Contact Microsoft Support
The last thing that you can do is contact Microsoft Support for assistance. Microsoft Support will help you recover or retrieve the product key depending on the purchase history or other verification methods.
Follow the steps to do it:
- First, open the “Settings” on your device and click on “Activation.”
- Next, click on “Get Help” and select the reason.
- Click on “Contact Support” and select your product.
- Now, click on “Confirm” > Provide your phone number.
- Soon, the support agent will call you and assist you.
5) By Using A Third-Party Tool
A third-party tool is another alternative that can help find the Windows 11 product key.
These third-party tools search for the product key automatically, and within a few clicks, the product key gets unveiled without any complications.
Even if the third-party tools are known to offer convenience, it is still essential to take precautions and choose well-reputed third-party tools to avoid potential risks.
Third-party tools like ShowKeyPlus and EaseUS KeyFinder are available in the Microsoft Store. You can download those apps and run the app for retrieving Windows product information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What Is Windows 11 Product Key For?
The Windows 11 product key is used to activate Windows and also helps in verifying that Windows has not been used on any other PC other than the Microsoft Software License Terms.
- Can We Activate Windows 11 Without Product Key?
You can use Windows 11 for an indefinite period of time without activating it with the license. But in this case, you will encounter “Active Windows” watermarks and reminders and will also lose many personalization and settings.
- Can You Use The Product ID To Find The Product Key?
No, both product ID and Product Key are entirely different.
Product ID determines the level of service that you’re entitled to, whereas the Product key is used for pairing your license with your PC and also to validate its authenticity.
- Do Windows Keys Expire?
No, the keys will never expire. But in the case of OEM Windows keys, the key will keep working as long as you don’t change the PC’s motherboard.
Close Up
Now that you have found out the product key note it down and keep it aside for future reference.
In case of reinstallation of Windows 11 or while transferring your Windows license to a new computer, the product key is a must.
