Make sure your Samsung PC has genuine Windows
Only a genuine Windows PC will have access to all of Microsoft's updates and downloads, which are designed to help you get the most from your device. When you get a new PC, you will need to activate Windows. This pairs your product key with your hardware configuration. It also verifies that your copy of Windows hasn't been used on more computers than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow.
Note: Available screens and settings may vary by software version and model.
Check activation status
If you aren't sure about the current status of your Windows, you can easily find it on your PC.
On Windows 10, select Start, then select Settings, and then select Update & Security. Select Activation. Your activation status will be listed next to Activation.
On Windows 11, select Start, then begin typing Activation settings until the option appears, and then click on it. Select Activation state to view your status.
Windows is activated: You are activated, and your Microsoft account is not linked.
Windows is activated with a digital license: You are activated, and your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license.
Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account: You are activated, and your Microsoft account is linked.
Windows is not activated: You are not activated, and you will see an error message explaining the failure. You may need to purchase a copy of Windows to activate.
Activate Windows
You will need either a digital license or a 25-character product key to activate your PC. In most cases, Windows 10 activates automatically when you use a digital license. However, if a product key is required, it can usually be found in the confirmation email you received after purchasing Windows, or in the box the Windows PC came in.
On Windows 10, select Start, select Settings, and then select Update & Security. Select Activation, and then select Change product key. Enter your 25-character key, and then follow the on-screen prompts.
To find this on Windows 11, select Start, select Settings, and then select System. Select Activation, select Upgrade your edition of Windows, and then select Change next to Change product key.
If you have a digital license, you only need to log into the Microsoft account that has the digital license.
Note: If you do not have a digital license or a product key, you can purchase a Windows digital license through the Microsoft Store app.
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