Activating Windows 10 is a necessary thing to get rid of that activation message. If you are using the Pro or Enterprise versions of Windows 10 that comes with additional security benefits and features, activating it will let you make use of it. As Windows 10 standard version is available for free at the moment, regular users may not be asked to activate their Windows. However, for paying customers who use different versions, activating Windows is one of the first steps they have to do on the Microsoft OS. Here is how.
Methods to Activate Windows 10
Based on the Windows version you are using, there are two different things you can use to activate your Windows OS. You can either use the Digital License or the 25-character product key. Both of them will work.
- Digital License: A Digital Windows 10 License will not ask you for a product key while activating Windows. The license will be sent to your Microsoft account upon purchasing the OS.
- Product Key: Windows 10 Product Key is a 25-character long key that you will have to enter either during the setup or after when you have to activate Windows 10.
Activate Windows 10 using a Digital License
The activation using the Digital License is pretty easy. The license will be associated with your Microsoft account. You can simply use the Microsoft account to sign in to the device where you want to activate Windows 10. Though, the mode of activation might change base on different scenarios. In most cases, the email address you use to purchase or upgrade the OS will be the account that contains your Microsoft Digital License.
Steps to Activate Windows 10 using a Product Key
- Click on the Start button.
- Click the Settings icon (Gear icon).
- Go to Update & Security.
- Then to Activation.
There you can enter your activation details and get the product activated.
You can also simply visit this page and click on the Open Activation in Settings button to directly navigate to the settings where you can activate Windows 10.