Have you ever wondered how long Windows 11 may be used without a product key or activation? The basic answer is that you can use it forever, although some of the functions will be deactivated in the long run. Gone are the days when Microsoft required customers to purchase a license and rebooted their computers every two hours if the grace period for activation expired. Meanwhile, in this guide, you’ll learn 2 different ways to check if Windows 11 is activated or not.
The latest version of Windows, Windows 11, requires activation, much as earlier versions of Windows. You should be OK if you buy a new computer or upgrade from Windows 10 to 11. However, especially after a clean setup, you should double-check your PC.
In the meantime, Windows 11 is a free update for anyone who has a current version of Windows 10 installed on a machine that satisfies Microsoft’s minimal hardware requirements.
The first thing you should do after upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 or conducting a clean install of Windows 11 verifies if your copy of Windows 11 is active.
How Long Will You be Able to use Windows 10 without Activating it?
Unlike prior versions of Windows, Windows 10 and Windows 11 do not require you to provide a product key during the installation process. You’ll see a button that says “Skip for now.” After installation, you should be able to use Windows 10 without restrictions for the next 30 days.
Limitations If Windows isn’t Activated
- The Activate Windows watermark will stay in the lower right-hand corner.
- You will receive alerts from Windows requesting you to activate it.
- You won’t be able to customize the wallpaper, accent colors, themes, lock screen, or other aspects of the device.
- Some apps and features will stop working.
How to Check if Windows 11 is Activated or Not?
Without wasting any time, we are going to show you 2 different ways to check Windows 11 activation status:
Method 1. Check Windows 11 activation Status via Settings
Step 1. Click the Start menu icon and then select Settings. Alternatively, press the Windows key + I to open Settings directly.
Step 2. Click System from the left pane and then choose Activation.
Step 3. Here, your activation status is specified next to Activation State. If your Windows 11 copy is activated, this message will say Active.
Step 4. Click the Active option to determine how your Windows 11 copy was activated. You’ll see whether your copy was activated using your organization’s service or digital license.
Method 2. Use CMD to Know if Windows 11 is Activated
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type this command slmgr /xpr and then press enter.
That’s it. These were the 2 methods to check if Windows 11 is activated.
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