To activate Windows with a product key in Windows 11, enter your genuine 25-character code directly in the system licensing menu. This validation registers your license with Microsoft servers, confirming genuine operating system status and unlocking restricted personalization features across your device. You can perform this verification during setup or update your license at any time on your PC.
- Open Settings > System > Activation, select Change product key, and enter your key.
- Check See if Windows is activated on the same page to confirm that your license status shows as active.
- If activation fails, select Troubleshoot activation to diagnose errors and restore license validation.