What Is a Windows License Key?
A Windows Product Key is a unique 25-character code used to activate Windows. This key confirms the legal ownership of your system and ensures access to official updates and support. In this guide, we will explore various methods to retrieve your Windows license key, whether it is embedded in the motherboard, stored within the system, or linked to a Microsoft account.
Methods to Find Your Windows License Key
1. Using Command Prompt (CMD)
Windows has built-in tools to retrieve the product key easily.
✅ Steps:
1️⃣ Open Command Prompt:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type cmd and press Enter.
2️⃣ Enter the following command and press Enter:
wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey
👉 If the key is embedded in the motherboard (BIOS/UEFI), it will be displayed.
2. Using PowerShell
PowerShell is a powerful alternative for retrieving the product key.
✅ Steps:
1️⃣ Open PowerShell as an administrator:
- Search for PowerShell in the Start menu.
- Right-click and select Run as Administrator.
2️⃣ Enter the following command and press Enter:
(Get-WmiObject -query 'select * from SoftwareLicensingService').OA3xOriginalProductKey
👉 The product key will be displayed if available.
3. Checking Windows Settings
While Windows settings do not directly display the product key, they show the activation status.
✅ Steps:
1️⃣ Open Settings (Windows + I).
2️⃣ Navigate to System > Activation.
3️⃣ You will see the activation status:
- Activated with a digital license (linked to Microsoft account).
- Activated with a product key (physical key needed).
4. Using Third-Party Tools
If built-in methods fail, specialized software can help retrieve the key.
✅ Recommended Tools:
- ProduKey – A free tool to display the Windows product key.
🔗 Download ProduKey - ShowKeyPlus – A simple tool for retrieving product keys.
🔗 Download ShowKeyPlus - Belarc Advisor – Provides a full system audit, including the product key.
🔗 Download Belarc Advisor
5. Retrieving from Microsoft Account
If your Windows copy is activated with a digital license, the key is linked to your Microsoft account.
✅ Steps:
1️⃣ Sign in to your Microsoft account.
2️⃣ Select Devices and find your registered PC.
3️⃣ Check the activation status of your Windows system.
Frequently Asked Questions
🔹 Can I recover a license key embedded in the motherboard?
Yes, the key is stored in BIOS/UEFI and can be retrieved using CMD or PowerShell.
🔹 What if my license is digital?
Digital licenses are tied to your Microsoft account, and Windows will activate automatically upon signing in.
🔹 Do third-party tools affect system data?
No, tools like ProduKey and ShowKeyPlus only extract the key without modifying system files.
Additional Tips
💡 Save Your Key: Once retrieved, store it in a secure place.
💡 Back Up Before Reinstalling: Ensure your key is saved before a system reset.
💡 Download from Trusted Sources: Only use official websites for third-party tools.
📌 Source: Original Article on Matrix219.Net