Hello friends, I want to highlight today's article on how to activate Windows 10. Not only will I describe in this article all known legal and effective ways activation, but I will also write about illegal ones, which a very large number of users now use. This is true, because no one wants to pay about 8 thousand rubles for one a copy of Windows 10 pro.
In the material, I will analyze how to activate Windows by phone, using a key, and also without a key. We will learn about programs that can activate the system, as well as other software, in a couple of clicks. Let's try to understand why Windows is not activated and much more. If the article is very large, then I will divide it into two parts.
Activating Windows with a key
The easiest way to activate Windows 10 is by entering your product key. In the boxed version, this key is drawn on the box itself. On most laptops, it is glued to the back of the laptop. The next point is that the key is usually tied to the hardware, so it is unlikely to work on other devices, and on laptops it is sewn into the BIOS. This means that the key does not need to be entered, it is necessary to install the system of the required edition and it will activate itself.
If you have a Windows 10 key, then you can enter it as follows:
Open the system settings window by pressing the Win + I keys. Next, go to the "Update and Security" section. We go to the subsection "Activation" and on the right we find the parameter "Change product key".
In the same window, you can find out the edition of your system, for example, Windows 10 Home, and whether the system is activated or not.
Additional information about update 1607
Since about 2016, users who have upgraded to "tens" from Windows 7 and 8 have a key binding not only to hardware, but also to a Microsoft account.
Many already know that this solves problem situations with activation when replacing components and other nuances.
Windows 10 Digital License
There is a so-called digital license, which does not require entering a product key. When connected to the Internet, the system is activated automatically. This function available only to those users who updated from licensed version, or are members of the Windows Insider Program. Once this is done, the user will no longer drive the key, because it is already tied to the hardware, this is called a digital license.
In the Update and Security window, you can see how Windows was activated.
Many sites and forums write that you should not enter the key during digital activation. This means that the activation may fail, and the entered key will not work. Although this does not always happen.
I also suggest that you read the article from Microsoft, which describes activation solutions.
Activating Windows 10 by phone
If it is impossible to activate via the Internet, or some activation methods do not work, you can use the following method.
- Press the Win + R keys until the "Run" window appears.
- We enter the command slui 4.
- A country selection window should appear.
- The number you need to call will be displayed, there will be activation instructions, just in case you can write everything down.
- Upon receipt of the code, enter it in the required field and activate it.
By the way, some editions do not allow you to activate Windows by phone. In this case, a corresponding message will appear.
How to activate Windows 10 after changing hardware
This question is very important. If you are linked to a Microsoft account, then there will be no problems. That's all pies. Before changing the configuration, bind the key to the account in order to avoid problems.
Where to get a license key to activate Windows 10
The legal way is to buy a key. There are several ways to purchase it:
- Purchase through the store Windows PRO versions.
- Purchase of the boxed version.
- Buying a laptop or computer on which the key is already tied to the equipment. (The most expensive way).
From the store, you can easily upgrade to the Pro edition, but if you have any version other than "For one language". I have already encountered this myself and cannot update the top ten due to the fact that it costs OEM.
Buying a Windows 10 Product Key on eBay
Recently discovered interesting way system activation. You need to install the desired version of the system, buy a key for about 200-300 rubles, enter and activate the system. Someone says that it is illegal, while others use this option and do not complain. I myself do not know how to relate to this, but I will tell you about the method.
Register for eBay auction and enter "Windows 10 Pro" in the search bar. Our eyes open big choice goods with widely varying prices. But you need to take it from the seller with the highest rating and a lot of positive reviews.
Buy the key in a way convenient for you and wait for it to arrive in the mail. After receiving, enter it and enjoy a licensed copy.
How to activate Windows 10 without a key
Now let's start looking at options where we don't need a product key. Here we become a pirate, who we shouldn't become, but you can't change people.
Activating Windows 10 with KMS
The most popular Windows activation method is using a dedicated KMS activator. You can download it and activate clean Windows, or download some assembly where the activator will already be built in and do everything by itself.
The activator usually has several ways to activate the system and the ability to make even an office “licensed”.
There is other software that activates Windows. For example, Re-Loader Activator. Before use, it is advisable to disable the antivirus and click on the "Active" button. The utility will do everything on its own.
Well, I sort of sorted out all the methods and at least one should work. Of course, it is better to use legal methods so that there are no problems later. Did anyone have them? I don't think.
A couple of interesting items:
Install operating system Windows 10 is simpler than any other system from Microsoft. Previously, no one could have thought of downloading the operating system for free directly from the official website. Now the system boots in any way convenient for you completely legally, you just need to activate it using a special key.
Why activate the operating system
In fact, you can skip the activation key request when installing the operating system. In theory, you should enter it later, but in practice, Microsoft does not set a clear framework for the period of use of the operating system without activation. However, activating Windows 10 will give you a number of benefits:
If you refuse to activate, you can certainly activate the system later at any time convenient for you. In this case, the only unpleasant factor for the user will be an annoying notification on top of all windows about the need to activate the operating system. 
The inscription in the corner of the screen will remind you to activate the system
Activated or not - how to check
There are a few simple ways, allowing you to check whether the OS is activated or not:
You can see the system activation status among general information about her
You can make sure that the system is activated through the activation point in the updates section
With the /xpr command you will receive confirmation of the activation of your systemRegardless of the method, you will receive a corresponding message if the operating system is already activated.
How to activate Windows 10 - step by step instructions
The choice of the optimal way to activate the system depends on the method of its installation. Having studied various ways, you can choose the best one for your situation.
After upgrading from a previous version of Windows
If you installed the system by free update licensed from a previous version, such as Windows 8.1, then you do not need to activate the operating system. The fact is that the license key of your previous system was tied to your account. In this case, you will see a digital license message in the Windows activation menu. In the future, you will be able to reinstalling Windows 10 without losing your digital license. 
Digital activation is linked to your account
For automatic activation then you need an internet connection.
With a key
The standard way to activate Windows 10 is to use an activation key. The user is required to:
During the installation of the operating system, you will be prompted to enter an activation key
When the system is already installed, you can activate at any time convenient for youYou can find out the license key in different ways:
Inside the box with the disk you will find the activation key for Windows 10
You can find the pre-installed system key on your deviceVideo: a simple way to activate the "tens"
With the help of KMSAuto
The KMSAuto program activates the operating system without using a license activation key. Such a method, of course, is not officially permitted. In addition, it is worth considering that the process can crash at any time.
Run the executable file KMSAuto.exe in the program folder
Select "Windows Activation" to automatically activate the systemVideo: Windows 10 activation via KMSAuto
Via Skype or by phone
Program for voice communication Skype in this activation method will only be used as a replacement for a regular phone. However, this method is very reliable and is considered stable compared to other methods of illegal activation of Windows. Follow these steps:
Check the operating system key before activating by phone
In response to the activation key, you will receive a special code that must be entered in the MsAct programObtaining a digital license when changing equipment
If you have significantly changed parts of your computer, the activation of the operating system may fail. To restore digital activation, it is enough just to log in again:
Go to Update & security in your system settings
After logging into the correct account, the digital activation will be displayed on your systemIf you're having trouble restoring Windows Digital Activation, you should use the troubleshooter in the Activation section.
Through the command line
This activation method only involves alternative way enter the activation key. This can be useful if the standard input window cannot be called for some reason.
Type cmd into the Run window to open a command prompt
Drive in the activation key after the slmgr.vbs -ipk command and confirm the entry
In order for the key to be used, enter the slmgr.vbs –ato command and wait for the key to be appliedVideo: activate Windows 10 using the command line
Features of activation for different versions of Windows 10
Although the activation procedure for different versions Windows is identical, it is worth considering several features:
Possible problems
In order to avoid problems with activating Windows 10, you should download the operating system only from the official website. This will immediately reduce the chances of problems to a minimum. But you may still encounter some of them:
The official solution for any activation issues is to run the troubleshooter. If automatic solutions do not help you, then all that remains is to contact technical support where activation will be carried out in manual mode. 
You can use the troubleshooter in the system activation section
It is not necessary to activate the operating system, and in the case of Windows 10, this is more a matter of convenience than functionality. Still, being able to customize the system to your taste is quite nice. At the same time, the activation process itself is quite simple, the question is rather where exactly you decide to take the key for this. And now that you know the various methods of activating Windows 10, you should decide for yourself how exactly to perform this procedure.
Like most licensed software, the operating Windows system 10 is a paid product. But it also has a "shareware" version. Each user decides for himself whether to leave the trial version on the computer or still go through the OS activation process. Those who opted for the licensed version can get the coveted activation key in several ways.
Why activate Windows 10
The “shareware” (non-activated) version of Windows 10 is almost unlimited functionality OS. Outwardly, it differs from the activated version only in that at the bottom of the desktop, above the taskbar, a “watermark” hangs all the time - a reminder of Windows activation. In addition, the user of the non-activated version is deprived of the opportunity to personalize the system, that is, change the desktop wallpaper, icons, loading screens, color themes, and so on. There is nothing critical for work in this, but nevertheless, these seemingly insignificant, at first glance, restrictions can sooner or later begin to annoy. In this case, it makes sense to activate Windows using one of the methods described below.
The watermark can be removed using third-party utilities, however, the limitations of system personalization settings will still remainHow to activate Windows 10 without a license key
So you've decided to activate your Windows version 10. If you have an activation key, then there is nothing complicated about it. But what if there is no key? In this case, there are also ways to legally activate the OS. Microsoft offers two proven and safe methods to choose from:
- Digital Entitlement method;
- Windows 10 activation by phone.
Digital Entitlement Method
In Russian translation, the Digital Entitlement activation method is called "Digital Resolution". Initially, it was intended only for users participating in the Windows Insider program, created by Microsoft for preliminary testing and Windows scores. Then the "digital resolution" became available to everyone during the free upgrade period from versions 7 and 8.1 to Windows 10.
You can get a “digital license” on a PC by linking a Microsoft account to the installed OS through the “Activation” setting in the “Update and Security” settings, after which you will never need to activate Windows 10 forever. But you still need to enter at least once on your PC Windows license key.
After creating a Microsoft account, a corresponding entry will appear in the activation settings To become a Windows Insider user and receive the coveted "digital permission", you must:
- Go to the menu "Start - Control Panel - Update and Security". Go to the section "Program preliminary assessment Windows" and click the "Start" button.
You can also open the settings window by finding the desired setting through the Windows search box - In the window that appears, you need to sign in to your Microsoft account (if not, then you will be asked to create one).
You can also create a Microsoft account on the official website of the corporation - Then the user will be offered a choice of one of three Windows Insider build packages, which differ in "raw" system components. These packages, respectively, allow:
- After selecting the Windows Insider build package, you must restart your PC.
You can restart your PC later - The next time you boot the system, you need to enter the "Update and Security" setting, then open the "Center windows updates” and click the “Check for Updates” button to download the necessary Windows package insider.
Sometimes the download of the necessary Windows Insider build is performed automatically immediately after the PC is restarted - Done, you now own the "digital resolution" of Windows.
Video: How to become a member of the Windows Insider Program
The author of this article would like to warn users who are going to resort to this method of obtaining "digital permission". Firstly, the downloaded version of Windows 10 will be a test version and will not be able to guarantee the stable operation of all components. Secondly, you will have to update the OS very often, since the number of outgoing Windows test components is quite large. And thirdly, this type of system activation actually provides the user not with the official licensed version of Windows, but with its trial version, which is valid for 90 days, followed by automatic renewal for the same period. Sometimes about the fact of using trial version can prevent the "watermark" appearing on the desktop.
Hovering over the "watermark" will display a message with information about using the Windows Insider Program Activate Windows 10 by Phone
This is another official way to activate Windows 10 offered by Microsoft. You need to do the following:
- Use the WIN+R key combination to call the command Windows string, type slui 4 and press Enter.
You can also launch the Windows Command Prompt by right-clicking on the Start icon and selecting the appropriate menu - In the “Windows Activation Wizard” window that appears, after selecting the region of residence, an information window will open with the phone number to call and the installation code.
Pressing the "Enter confirmation code" button is necessary only after the answering machine confirms the correctness of the installation code you entered - Call the provided free number, then follow step by step instructions answering machine. At the end, you will be asked to enter the setup code on your phone.
- After entering the installation code, the answering robot will dictate the Windows activation confirmation code to you. It will need to be entered in the confirmation window.
If the confirmation code is entered correctly, then after pressing the "Windows Activation" button, a window will appear confirming the end of the activation process - After entering the appropriate code, hang up, click the "Windows Activation" button, and then "Finish".
After the Windows 10 activation process is completed by phone, an entry will appear in the settings for the Activation option - Restart your PC. Your version of Windows 10 is now activated.
Video: Activate Windows 10 by phone
Windows 10 activation security level by phone
This method of activating Windows 10 is one of the safest, since the whole process is confidential, without the participation of any third parties (activation is carried out by an autoresponder robot). In addition, you do not transfer any personal data or information that threatens the security of your PC and operating system. It is worth remembering only one rule: call only the numbers specified in the “Windows activation wizard by phone”.
Trouble activating Windows 10 by phone
Sometimes the phone activation method may not work. The most common problems are:
- "Data not recognized." Or the Windows activation confirmation key was entered incorrectly - check and re-enter it. Or the key is not suitable for installed version Windows - then you need to contact Microsoft technical support).
- "Call drop". The reason may be failures on the line or technical work of the Microsoft call center. It is best to call on weekdays from 9:00 to 20:00 Moscow time.
- "Sync Error". Occurs when the time settings and Windows dates. If the time and date are set correctly, try to synchronize using the Internet through the bottom control panel "Date and Time".
Delay Windows 10 activation
As you know, the non-activated version of Windows 10 is only available for use for 30 calendar days.. After the expiration of this period, the system will simply stop loading, displaying only a window with a message about the need to activate the OS. However, in fact, Windows 10 can work without activation for as long as 90 days. To do this, you need to use the deferral activation feature provided by Microsoft.
You need to do the following:
Video: How to Extend Your Windows 10 Evaluation Through the Command Line Console
Activating Windows 10 after replacing PC components
If you had a licensed version of Windows 10 installed and you decide to replace components on your computer, this may reset the OS activation key. In this case, it will not be possible to reuse the current license. Most often, this problem occurs when replacing motherboard . To reactivate the OS, do the following:
- AT Windows settings Sign in to the Update & Security console and open the Activation window. Select the Troubleshoot menu.
When changing hardware component an entry will appear in the activation section warning that your OS version is not activated - The activation system will display a message like: "Windows could not be activated on this device." Click on the line "Hardware components have recently been changed on this device."
You will also be prompted to go to the Windows Store to purchase new version OS - You will then be asked to sign in with your personal Microsoft account.
If you are already logged in, this step will be automatically skipped. - A window will appear with a selection of the hardware component that has been replaced on your PC. By ticking the appropriate box, click the "Activate" button.
If you changed several hardware components at once, then in the list presented, you must select them all - Ready. Your version of Windows 10 is activated again.
After troubleshooting in the settings, a record will appear indicating the successful completion of Windows 10 activation
Ways to purchase a Windows 10 license key
There are several ways to purchase a license key to activate Windows 10. Consider the most popular of them.
Microsoft Digital Store
This is the fastest and safe way . After completing your purchase, you will receive a digital activation key for your version of Windows 10. To purchase:
- Go to the official Microsoft website. AT Windows section Click the "Buy Windows 10" button.
You can use the search bar to quickly navigate the site. - You will be offered to choose from two versions of the OS: "Home" and PRO ("Professional"). The difference between them is that the PRO version has extended functionality and an improved data protection system. Click on the "Buy Windows 10" button.
By clicking on the "Buy" button, you will be redirected to a page with detailed description features and capabilities of each OS version - On the next page, where the benefits of the new OS will be described in detail, you must click on the "Add to Cart" button, and then on "Checkout".
VAT is automatically included in the price of the order. - After choosing the payment method, click on the "Place Order" button.
- Ready. License key will come to your mail, which is used in the Microsoft account. This key will need to be entered in the Activation settings of the Update & Security console.
Other ways to purchase a key
There are other, quite convenient, but differing in price and degree of reliability ways to purchase a Windows 10 activation key.
Reliable but less cheap way purchasing a licensed version of the OS. When using it, the benefit can be about 1-2 thousand rubles. You cannot buy a boxed version on the official Microsoft website; you need to buy it in digital equipment stores.
The kit includes:
- bootable USB device with Windows 10;
- digital activation code;
- paper instructions for installing the system.
Check for Licensed Certificates of Authenticity before purchasing a boxed version Buying hardware with Windows 10 installed
The most expensive way to purchase an OS. In this case, Windows 10 will, in fact, be just an addition to the components. Most often, this method is resorted to by users who decide to completely upgrade the PC hardware. In this case, a system unit pre-assembled in the store with installed Windows 10 will cost less than buying kits and the OS separately.
Usually in the characteristics of the assembly of the system unit there is an entry about the presence of installed Windows Purchasing through third party marketplaces
The least expensive way to buy Windows licenses but the most unreliable. You can buy a Windows 10 digital key on any well-known marketplace, for example, on eBay.com. There are different risks associated with this purchase. You may be sold a non-working key or its “OEM version” (a key that is already tied to specific equipment). The seller can make a substitution of the OS version (for example, instead of a 64-bit one, sell a 32-bit one). D even if the site (like, say, eBay) has a 30-day refund function, this still does not guarantee the security of the transaction.
All prices on the eBay trading platform are immediately automatically converted into rubles at the current exchange rate The author of this article has repeatedly heard negative feedback from users who have purchased Windows license digital keys from third-party trading floors. Sometimes the keys were simply non-working. Sometimes, after a certain period, such keys were "revoked" (became unusable) due to the fact that the purchased digital license was an "OEM version". Therefore, the author advises: if you decide to buy a key, for example, on eBay, then carefully read the description, check with the seller for information about the type and version of the key, and also check for a money back function.
There are enough legal ways to activate Windows 10 so as not to resort to illegal methods. Any user can register for Windows program Insider from Microsoft Corporation by obtaining the appropriate digital license, or activate the OS by phone. In addition, there is always the opportunity to buy both a digital and physical (boxed) version of Windows 10 or purchase it bundled with an already assembled system block. And if you need to save as much as possible, then you can buy a key on third-party trading platforms, however, only at your own peril and risk.