Windows 11 may ask to be activated once you have it installed on your PC. This article will guide you through activating Windows using a valid product key!
1. Locate your Windows 11 packaging. You will find a multi-colored sticker inside of the packaging that will say "Windows 11 Home" or "Windows 11 Pro" depending on which version you purchased.
Your product key will be located either on a card with a picture of a key on it or attached to the DVD sleeve.
Part of the product key will be covered. Gently scratch off the grey/silver Microsoft portion with a coin to reveal the full product key.
2. Right-click on the Start button (you can usually find this at the bottom of your screen) and then Left-click click Settings in the menu that just opened. This will open the Settings app.
3. You will find a list of categories on the left side bar in the Settings app. Left-click on System in the left sidebar.
4. Once you are in the System category, scroll down using your mouse wheel or the scroll bar on the right side of the window and click Activation.
5. On the System > Activation screen locate the "Change product key" option and then Left-Click the Change button. This will open a new window to enter your product key.
6. In the Enter a product key window, type in the product key that you found on the sticker earlier. Dashes will be entered automatically as you type in your product key, you do not need to type dashes.
You should have a total of 25 characters, if you have less than that, double-check that you gently scratched off all the silver material and revealed the entire key.
7. Click on Next to complete activation and you are all set!
