Official-source guide

Windows 10 Product Key Activation Guide

Step-by-step Windows 10 product key activation guide with official Microsoft download and activation sources.

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DifficultyEasy
Estimated time10 minutes
License typeProduct key
Last verifiedJul 7, 2026
Guide statusVerified

Before you start

Use the official Microsoft Windows 10 download page and activate only through Windows settings or the Microsoft activation wizard.

Activation steps

Download Windows 10 from Microsoft

Use the official Microsoft Windows 10 software download page to download the Media Creation Tool or ISO.

Download Windows 10 from Microsoft illustration

Open Activation settings

Open Settings, then Update & Security, then Activation.

Open Activation settings illustration

Change product key

Select Change product key, paste the 25-character key, and follow the activation prompts.

Change product key illustration

Check activation status

Windows should show an activated status after successful validation.

Check activation status illustration

Troubleshooting

Edition mismatch

The installed Windows edition must match the key edition.

Activation server unavailable

Wait a few minutes and retry with a stable internet connection.

FAQ

Can I use a Windows 10 key on Windows 11?

Use the guide that matches the product and edition purchased. Contact support if you are unsure.