Keeping your Windows installation activated ensures that you have a genuine copy of the OS installed on your machine. It also lets you use all of the features that are available and removes the watermark that appears on unactivated copies. Activated Windows installations are also eligible for updates and support, which not only add new features but also help keep your system running properly. If you're unsure about whether your Windows installation is activated or not, here is how to check it.

Check Activation Status Using Windows Settings

The easiest way to check the activation status of your Windows installation is by using the Settings app.

  1. Use the Win + I shortcut to open Windows Settings.
  2. Click on System on the left and select Activation from the right.
  1. On the Activation page, you will see the status of activation. If your copy of Windows is activated, a green check mark along with the Active notification will appear here. You can also view more details by clicking the Activation state dropdown, which will let you know how your Windows installation is activated.

Change Your Windows Product Key

If your existing Windows Product Key has been used on too many machines, you've made significant hardware changes to your system, or are just upgrading to a different Windows version, you will have to change your product key. Additionally, if your product key is not linked to your Microsoft account, you may need to change it even after resetting your PC or reinstalling Windows.

  1. Open the Settings app as explained previously and go to the Activation section again.
  2. Click Upgrade your edition of Windows dropdown below the Activation state dropdown to expand it.
  1. You should now see the Change product key option. Click the Change button to its right.
  1. Enter your new product key in the pop-up that appears on your screen and click Next. Windows should let you upgrade or activate your copy of Windows if you have entered a genuine product key.

If you find that your copy of Windows is not activated, consider purchasing a genuine product key and activating your installation. Running an unactivated Windows system can expose your machine to various risks and may even pose legal problems. Just make sure you get your product key from Microsoft or a reputable vendor and avoid websites that claim to offer free Windows keys and activation.