To check both your Windows edition and whether it is activated, open the Activation page in Settings. Windows 11 uses Settings > System > Activation; Windows 10 uses Settings > Update & Security > Activation. For the Windows release version and build number, use winver instead.
Check your edition and activation status in Settings
Windows 11
- Select Start, then open Settings > System > Activation.
- Read the edition listed on the page and the message beside Activation state.
Windows 10
- Select Start, then open Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
- Read the edition and activation details shown on the page.
Microsoft documents these version-specific paths and says the Activation page displays the Windows edition. Microsoft’s Windows edition upgrade guidance also points users to that page.
Understand the activation message
The edition is the installed version of Windows, such as Home or Pro. Activation state tells you whether that installation is activated. Depending on the device, the page may say Windows is activated, activated with a digital license, or activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account; it can also report that Windows is not activated. Use the exact message on your PC rather than assuming every device will show the same wording. Microsoft’s activation guidance describes these messages and the available activation methods.
Your license must match the edition installed. Microsoft states, “Your Windows 11 edition must match your license.” If the page says Windows is not activated, first check whether the installed edition matches the license or entitlement you already have; an unactivated message alone does not establish that you need to buy Windows.
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Check the Windows version and build number
The Activation page answers which edition is installed and whether it is activated. To find the Windows release version and build, open Start, type winver, and open the result. The About Windows window shows version and build information. Microsoft recommends this check in its activation-error guidance.
If Windows says it is not activated
- Note the exact activation message and any error code shown in Settings.
- Confirm that your installed edition matches the license or digital entitlement you have.
- Check whether you already have a product key or digital license. Microsoft describes a product key as a 25-character code; some purchases and upgrades use a digital license instead. See Microsoft’s guidance on finding a Windows product key.
- Use the Activation troubleshooter when it is available, or follow Microsoft’s guidance for the specific error code. The activation-error page covers troubleshooting steps.
Changing from Home to Pro is a separate edition upgrade, not a step required simply to check activation. If you do want to change editions, use the relevant Microsoft Home-to-Pro instructions.
Quick Recap
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- DIGITAL ACTIVATION KEY – Activation key for one compatible PC. This is a digital product; no physical item, DVD, USB drive, or retail box will be shipped.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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