Activate Windows - Microsoft Support

If you have a digital license for your device, you can reinstall the same edition of Windows 11 on this device without entering a product key.

Make sure that Windows 11 is activated before you try to reinstall it. To find out, select the Start button, and then select Settings > System > Activation . You’ll be able to confirm that your Windows 11 has been activated and that your Microsoft account is associated with your digital license.

Check  activation status in Settings

Here are the possible messages that display on the Activation page:

Activation status

Description

Windows is activated with a digital license

Your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license. Follow instructions for Linking your Microsoft account.

Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account

Your Microsoft account is already linked to your digital license.

If Windows 11 isn’t activated on your device, see Get help with Windows activation errors for more info.

If your digital license is not linked to your Microsoft account, follow the steps under Checking your Activation status, Linking your Microsoft account.

Once you have your account linked, then you can run setup to reinstall Windows 11. For more info about how to create installation media to reinstall Windows 11, go to the Microsoft software download website. When creating installation media, make sure to choose the edition of Windows 11 that matches the edition already installed on your device.

During reinstallation, if you’re asked to enter a product key, you can skip this step by selecting I don't have a product key. Windows 11 will automatically activate online after the installation is complete. If you linked your digital license with your Microsoft account, be sure to sign in to the Microsoft account that is linked to the digital license.

Tag » How To Activate Windows 11