If you just recently upgraded to Windows 10 from an earlier version of the system, then you probably immediately faced the problem of OS activation (see also). This difficulty existed in previous versions of the OS from Microsoft, but now, with the release of Windows 10, it has literally moved to the next level. How to activate the system after 07/29/2016, if not in time, what are the most popular activators popular at the moment, how they work and how they are configured. I will try to describe the answers to all these questions in this article.
Official activation of Windows 10 in build 1607
Since 2015, the Windows 10 activation system allows you to activate the OS using the old 7, 8 or 8.1 key. Since the release of the Anniversary Update, it has been assumed that activation with such a solution will not be available. However, keys are still carried over to the top ten from earlier systems, even for newer 1607 distributions installed on a blank hard drive.
Since August 1, 2016 (after the expiration of the free update), a number of changes have been made to the activation procedure, which will be discussed below. Now the license that you received through a free upgrade from earlier versions of the operating system is tied not only to the ID number of the hardware components, but also to your Microsoft account information, if any.
Such a solution will allow to resolve activation difficulties affecting serious changes in the PC hardware base (for example, when replacing the motherboard).
If Windows cannot be activated, in the settings category "Security and Updates" - "Activation" there will be an option Troubleshooting Activation, taking into account your account, licenses assigned to it, and the number of personal nodes where this license is used.
The license is tied to the primary Microsoft account on the PC you are using. So on the system, in the above options section, you will be able to see a message stating that "The operating system was activated through a digital license that was linked to your Microsoft account."(cm. ).
If used, in the same category of settings, you will be prompted to add a Microsoft account to link activation to it.
As a result of the addition, your local account will be replaced with a Microsoft account with a license attached to it. (see you)
How to activate Windows 10 in case of hardware change
An essential dilemma for many users:
If I need to replace a few key PC components (motherboard or processor), how will the hardware-attached activation function?
The answer is simple: as I mentioned above, from August 1, 2016, the OS license that was obtained during a free system update can be attached to your personal Microsoft account. This decision was made by engineers in order to facilitate the activation of the system when changing the hardware base of the PC. Together, all these components function very successfully, transparently and clearly. By linking the license to your Microsoft account, you can move the activation to a completely new, just installed hardware without problems with key reset or lack of license validity.
But this all concerns the licensed, officially purchased by Windows. Or for those who managed to update during the year before 07/29/2016. But what about a copy downloaded from the Internet? Fortunately, it is quite possible to solve the problem of activating such an OS, and the solution to this problem is KMS activation. Read about what it is and “what it is eaten with” below.
What is KMS activation and how does it work?
You can find a lot of activators on the net for every taste. Some are simpler and unpretentious in terms of presets, while others are a little difficult to learn and require a practical, verified approach. The most popular of all activators at the moment is KMS Auto NET. You can find a lot of links to it on the Internet, but be careful: instead of an activator, you often come across another virus or worm, which is sometimes not so easy to get rid of. So, trust trusted sources. You can also use the link above to download. The author of these lines checked the link for operability and can assure that there are no viruses in this file, and it is absolutely clean.
So you've downloaded Windows 10 2016 Activator and are ready to launch it. What is KMS Activator in general and how does it work? KMS activation is a simple and affordable way to activate operating systems, usually used on the network by corporate clients, but since many distributions (Volume) usually leak into the network, now it can be used by all of us. The main advantage of KMS activation is that you do not need to acquire network access or establish a telephone connection to activate the system. All we need is a connection to the KMS server, which we can provide access to thanks to the KMS Auto NET emulator.
The operating methodology of the KMS activator is incredibly simple: you download the corresponding application from the link, launch it, set the settings, install the service and activate office applications or the system. You will learn about all the nuances and details below.
Installing the emulator and applying activation
1. Launch the application for execution in admin mode. The very first thing that catches your eye is the invitation form and the ReadMe instruction (if you figure it out, later it will be much easier for you to understand all the nuances and details of the emulator).
You can also notice two buttons "Information" and "Activation". You can activate your office applications or system immediately, regardless of any settings. This method consists in quickly going through all possible options, choosing the best one, automatically activating the application and then deleting the service. Also, you can set several settings to help you successfully activate the system in case of any activation problems.
2. Select the "System" tab. Here we have the right to remove or install the service, give preference to automatic or manual methods of installing the service, activate logging, generate a scheduled task in the schedule, or install the application GVLK key. Moreover, we can also reset the parameters by default. By choosing the WinDivert option, the program will install the service along with a special driver. Hook mode involves installing a service and replacing a number of system objects. The TAP option installs KMS along with an auxiliary virtual network adapter.
By choosing the Auto mode, you will set the installation of the service using one of the options indicated above, or in manual mode (the final choice depends on which system you are going to activate). Using the NoAuto option, the service will simply be installed without any auxiliary changes and additions to the OS - we will give it preference, since all the others are intended exclusively for Win 8.1 and Server 2012 R2 edition.
3. So, when all the settings and parameters are set, the activation code for Windows 10 and your computer will turn into a full-fledged KMS server. Go back to the "System" tab and click the "Install KMS-Service" control.
When the installation process is completed, you can find out about it from the informational message "KMS-Service is installed in the system". The program can be closed, the service installation is complete.
Lite KMS-Activator and its application
The lite version of the KMS Auto activator for Windows 10 works in a similar way. Here you can find all the same settings as in the older edition of the application. The activation function itself is located on the first tab called "Main Window". Here you can also use the scheduler to generate an automatic reactivation task after a specified period of time, or install a GVLK key.
All other settings are concentrated on the Settings tab: this is the installation of the KMS service for emulating the server, its port, AI and RI time ranges that allow re-activation on the server, as well as the WinPID identifier and optional logging of the activation process. The main difference between the portable lite version of the KMS activator and its full deployed version is additional utilities. Right in the activator window, you can change the version of the operating system to a more acceptable one for you. It can be any edition of Win 10 or 8.1. Having selected the edition in the second field in the section "Change the edition of Windows", simply press the "Change OS edition" control and the edition of the system will be changed.
Also very useful is a tool for removing unused Office updates. It will be very appropriate if you have to clean the system of those updates that do not bring much benefit to the office suite of programs. Also, with one click, you can reset the operating system status to invalid, if you want to experiment with various parameters set before activation. Moreover, using the Lite KMS service, you can save the activation status and restore it at any time, if after setting some new activation keys for Windows 10, it is no longer possible to successfully activate Windows, and on the first attempt everything turned out great.
Other Windows 10 activators
Although KMSAuto is the most popular among all activators of the "dozens", you can find several other programs on the net that cope with the task assigned to them. The first of them is, an automatic activator of any system of the Windows line, which is also suitable for office products. It works quite simply and clearly: just run the executable EXE file and the main form of the application will appear on the screen. Select the product you want to activate (Windows or Office) and click on the "Activation" button.
That's all - as simple as a clock. It is not necessary to change the settings at all, but if you nevertheless decide to see what options the developers have in store for us, there is a discrete tab for this. By the way, the program uses the same KMS algorithm as KMSAuto, so you won't find any special differences in the parameters in comparison with the above-mentioned software. The .NET Framework 4.0 set of libraries must be installed to work with the activator, keep this in mind.
Another useful full featured activator is this. On the net you can find both a portable version of the activator and a setup-distribution kit. The main feature of KMSpico is its striking attractive design. For example, a bright red button is used to start the activation procedure, and another icon with an exclamation mark depicted on it is an informational button, by pressing which the system status and information about the validity of the license are displayed on the display.
The KMS Auto service is by far the undisputed best mechanism for activating Windows 10, other operating systems in the Windows line, as well as office products. Having figured out thoroughly once with all the details and nuances of the application, you will save yourself from a lot of problems with activating the system in the future, and provide yourself with a lot of time spent on stable work in Windows OS of any edition, except Windows 7. Unfortunately, in the "seven" The KMS service turns out to be completely useless, and if you use this particular operating system, you will have to find another activation tool (for example, Chew-WGA). Other activators will also come in handy if you want to ensure yourself a high-quality and fully working activation of the latest OS from Microsoft.
Several years ago, Microsoft began distributing a new version of Windows in an unusual way: through .iso images that were installed without activation codes and license confirmation. But people who have installed Windows 10 are often faced with the intrusive requirement to activate the system, that is, enter the license code purchased from Microsoft. Let's consider whether activation is required and how to perform it.
Do I need to activate Windows 10
Many users have a natural question: is activation necessary at all? The system can be used without it, and no restrictions are visible at first glance. So maybe you don't need to activate Windows 10?
However, in a non-activated OS, some functions are blocked. Not the most important - just personalization settings, but until you activate the system, they cannot be changed.
This means that you won't be able to put a photo of your favorite cat on your desktop or make more icon icons.
In addition, there is an annoying activation reminder on the screen all the time, which, although it does not impose any restrictions, is great for nerves.
So if you don't care if personalization works in the system, you can safely stay on non-activated Windows 10. It will not hurt you to work with the system.
But if the activation reminder and personalization restrictions cause you inconvenience, then the system will have to be activated.
Activation methods
Microsoft developers have put several different activation methods into Windows 10:
- during installation;
- via Windows parameters;
- using the command line;
- by phone.
There are also several types of licenses, each for its own needs:
- OEM activation is a type of license that is commonly used on new computers. The system is activated by the PC builder, and the license code is provided to the purchaser along with the device. If you've ever bought a computer with Windows preinstalled, then most likely you have an OEM license. In this case, the system is activated without using the Internet. The main disadvantage of this approach is binding to a computer: if you change any components in it (most often, the motherboard), then the license may disappear;
- KMS activation is used by companies. This type of license assumes the presence of a server dedicated to managing multiple keys (up to several thousand) within the corporation. This method is useless for private users.;
- FFP, or Retail, is a "box" version of the system purchased by the user directly from Microsoft (from disk or via the network). In the case of Windows 10, usually only the key is bought, since the non-activated image is available for free. It is usually expensive, but does not bind to the gland. There is also a variant of MAK, which implies installing a copy of the system several times on different computers;
- Digital Entitlement (digital binding) is a method used on devices that have been updated for free from licensed Windows 7 or 8 to version 10. It is bound to a Microsoft account and, in parallel, to a specific computer. In fact, it is a special case of an OEM license.
Thus, if you want to get registration forever, on any computer, regardless of the hardware configuration, then your choice is Retail, and if you don't want to bother with activation, then a computer with a preinstalled OEM license is best suited. In any case, little depends on the user himself: the system that you have is already "sharpened" under one or another type of license (unless, of course, it is pirated).
Most often, the system is activated as Retail or OEM, depending on the way the user got Windows.
Activation via computer settings
The easiest way to activate is through computer settings. This requires a key and an internet connection.
This method is accepted by default and is the simplest of all available. However, problems may arise with it if there is no network connection. Then other methods come to the rescue, in particular, a phone call.
Command line activation
This method involves running the activation script directly. Open a command prompt console and enter the commands listed below. You will also need a key and internet access.
Video: Command Line Activation
Activation via phone
In addition to activation via the Internet, in Windows 10 it is possible to register a key through a phone call. This can be done through Windows options or through the command line console. Let's consider activation using a phone using the console as an example.
What to do after replacing the motherboard
As explained above, in some cases, Windows 10 activation is tied to the computer's motherboard and may disappear when it is replaced. This problem is relevant only for users whose system is activated using OEM or digital binding. Users who have bought a system "in a box" do not come across it.
Previously, in such cases, you had to contact technical support. Fortunately, Microsoft quickly fixed the problem and in the next update added a function that allows you to restore activation by standard means through your Microsoft account.
Microsoft notes that problems may arise when restoring activation, and explains in what situations this may happen:
- you are trying to reactivate an unlicensed copy or a system that was not initially activated;
- the device on which the reactivation takes place is too different from the original one (in other words, it is completely different);
- not the version of Windows that was originally installed is activated;
- the number of possible activations has been exceeded;
- the system has several administrator accounts, one of which has already been reactivated;
- the system has a commercial license that belongs to the organization.
If none of the above conditions are met, and the system could not be reactivated, then you need to contact Microsoft technical support.
Activation after reinstallation
In the case of an OEM license, activation upon reinstallation of Windows 10 occurs automatically due to the hardware binding. You do not need to enter any keys during reinstallation.
Sometimes the license is not restored immediately. In this case, you need to wait within 24 hours and, if activation fails, contact Microsoft technical support.
With the Retail version, everything is a little more complicated.
Before reinstalling, the user is obliged to save the license key that was issued to him when he purchased Windows. If the system is bought "in a box", then the key is usually written on its inside; when purchased through the official Microsoft online store, the key is sent via the network.
This key must be entered when reinstalling the system. In this case, activation will work immediately. Just keep in mind: until you delete the previous copy of Windows activated with this key, you will not be able to use it.
Also, until the system is removed from one computer, it cannot be activated on another with the same key.
If activation errors appear during reinstallation, then you are either installing a different version of the system, or entered the wrong key. Proceed with the installation without activation, and then activate the system with the existing key using different registration options. If it doesn't work, contact Microsoft support.
What to do if an activation reminder appears unexpectedly
It happens that the system has been activated for a long time, nothing has changed in the computer, but suddenly a reminder appears about the need for activation. The most likely reason for this is the installation of third-party software that damaged the license.
It is advisable to remember your activation key. However, if you have forgotten it, then the free utility ShowKeyPlus, which you can download, will tell the user at the first start what key is installed in his system.
Go to the path "Start - Settings - Update and Security - Activation" and select "Change product code", and then enter the key in the window that opens. If that doesn't work, try a forced reactivation by typing the following commands in the command line console:
vbs –rearm - start reactivation, reboot and key entry is required;
lmgr.vbs / ato - forced license check, used if the previous command did not help;
slmgr.vbs / ipk<ключ>- manual replacement of the key if the first two options did not help.
If you cannot manually fix the problem, you should contact Microsoft support.
The exception is pirated systems: it is obvious that problems with activation are quite natural in them.
Video: what to do if activation "has flown"
Windows 10 activation problems and errors
Although the “top ten” activation system is the most perfect in the entire Windows line, sometimes problems and errors also arise in it. We have already considered some of them (loss of activation when replacing the motherboard, nuances during reinstallation, “failed” activation). Now let's talk about more general errors that arise directly during the activation process.
Product key blocked
There may be several reasons for such an error, but the most common are two:
- you are trying to install a "clean" Windows 10 without prior update and are using an old key;
- activation servers are busy.
The first option after the 1511 update should not be. Check Windows 10 updates and try activation again. If it doesn't work, contact Microsoft.
In the second case, all you need to do is wait a while. When the servers are unloaded, activation will be successful.
License is invalid
There are a number of errors that are similar to each other and appear for similar reasons:
- error 0xC004F034: the license could not be obtained or is invalid;
- error 0xC004F050: The entered product key is invalid;
- error 0xC004E016: An error occurred while installing the product key.
Most often they occur if the key you entered is pirated. Another option - you are trying to activate Windows with a key of the wrong version (for example, the Pro version - with a key from Home). In this case, you need to download and install the system image corresponding to your license.
Errors when checking a license
- Error 0xC004C4AE: The validation service has detected corrupted Windows binaries.
- Error 0xC004E003: The Software Licensing Service reported an error while checking the license.
These errors most often mean that you are trying to upgrade to Windows 10 using an unlicensed copy. If this is not the case, then the error is most likely caused by some third-party software. It is recommended to roll back the system to the moment when this software was not in it.
Network problem during activation
This error appears if the system fails to activate itself over the network, and means that the computer is not connected to the Internet. It is recommended that you check your network card drivers and firewall settings: they may prevent the activation program from accessing the network.
If you did not have the Internet on your computer initially, then your way out is activation by phone.
Windows activation check
The device activation status, license type and system version can be checked by following the familiar path: "Start - Settings - Update and Security - Activation". This is where this data should be stored.
Activation can also be checked using the command line: the slmgr / xpr command should display a dialog box with the activation status.
Checking activation through the console is one of the ways to find out the status and type of Windows license Video: how to check your Windows license
Windows 10 activation is optional, and the user can work with the system without it. However, the variety of ways in which this OS is activated makes it easy to register it, and after reinstalling or changing equipment, you can easily restore the license. When errors appear, Microsoft technical support is always available, which will provide you with qualified assistance.
Microsoft Corporation distributes the Windows 10 operating system in the form of an ISO file, which can be freely downloaded from the company's official website and installed on a computer without first purchasing a license. For the right to legally use the top ten, you can pay later.
Why is Windows 10 activation necessary?
Users with legal Windows 7 or 8 can upgrade to a more recent operating system (OS) for free. In this case, you will not need to reactivate the top ten.All other options involve purchasing a license. Otherwise, after some time, the system will persistently offer to go to the "Activation Center" or remove Windows from the computer. But what happens if you continue to use the unactivated copy?
Firstly, a message will constantly hang on the display reminding you to activate the system; secondly, personalization settings will not be available for the user: changing the theme, wallpaper, colors, etc.
All this is not so scary, but by installing Windows, you agree to the terms of use of the operating system, which indicates the illegality of using this product without activating it.
We activate the system by standard means
To activate Windows 10, you need a key - a set of characters that is included with the installation disc or sent by email after purchase. The key is entered during system installation or after installation:If you need to define a unique electronic license code associated with the equipment, you can use the special utility ShowKeyPlus. You need to download and run it - the program will automatically scan the system and display the result. ShowKeyPlus is completely free.
Activation by phone
Phone activation may be required when, for some reason, there is no Internet connection or its use is limited by limited traffic. You need a phone, a pen and a notebook to write down the code dictated by the operator:
After restarting your computer, you will use the already activated "top ten".
Is this option safe?
Activating the operating system using your phone is absolutely safe if you follow a few simple rules:- do not show your key and confirmation code to anyone,
- do not activate in public places,
- do not record the call on the dictaphone, or delete the recording after the activation process is completed.
What problems might arise?
Most often, when activating "tens" by phone, users are faced with the problem of recognizing the entered code by the automatic electronic system. This trouble can take place for several reasons:- Wrong code entered. To fix the problem, call back and enter the code without errors.
- The activation key does not match the installed version of Windows 10 (this can be, for example, if you try to activate the "Home" edition with a key from "Professional"). The solution to the issue is to use the key that suits your edition.
- The key is blocked (perhaps it got into the network and pirates used it). The way out of the situation is to contact Microsoft support, where they will tell you what to do to get a new key.
What if there is no key?
If you do not have an activation key, you can buy it at the end of the installation, skipping entering the code during the installation process. Proceed as follows:
After going to the store, you will be able to purchase a genuine license of the used edition of Windows 10. The key for its activation will be sent to you by e-mail.
Delay activation
There are many tips on how to delay the activation of Windows 10 online. However, Microsoft says that the only trial version in existence is Windows 10 Enterprise, which is intended for IT professionals who want to review this edition on behalf of their company.How to activate the system after replacing PC components?
Previously, namely before the release of the global Anniversary Update, the process of reactivating Windows 10 after upgrading a computer was only possible with the help of Microsoft technical support. Today, the system is reactivated automatically:
If activation of the system is impossible after installing additional modules in the computer (another hard disk, sound or video card, etc.), try temporarily disabling them:
Try to reactivate Windows, then turn on the device in the same way.
Reactivation
If the system has been reinstalled, the way to reactivate it depends on how Windows was originally installed.If it was updated for free from Windows 7 - 8, or was bought and activated in an official store, then you already have a digital license. In this case, it is allowed to reinstall the "tens" of a similar edition without a key. When installing the operating system, just skip entering it.
Upon completion of the installation, the system is activated over the Internet automatically, as a rule, you do not need to do anything.
To avoid problems when re-activating the "dozen" before reinstalling it, open the "Start" menu, successively click "Settings" - "Update and Security" - "Activation". If you see that the OS is not activated, go to the official Microsoft portal in the "Activation errors" section, which explains what to do in this situation.
Where can I get the key?
The acquisition of a key or digital license can be carried out in different ways.| Possible place of purchase | Where is the key | additional information |
| Authorized retailer. | The unique key is printed on a label or card inside the box in which the OS is shipped. | You can get more information from the seller. |
| A new device with Windows 10 on board. | The digital key can be "sewn" into the hardware, printed on the packaging, or indicated in the certificate of authenticity, which is included in the equipment package. | Check with your PC manufacturer for more information. |
| Digital copy obtained from Microsoft website. | The key is sent to the email that you specified during registration. | For more information on activation, see the Windows 10 Activation section. It is also possible to contact support specialists. |
| Migrating from a previous version of Windows. | Free update of outdated operating systems to Windows 10 requires the use of a digital license. | For more information about a digital license, visit the Microsoft website under "Activating Windows 10". Here you can also contact technical support with this or that question. |
When buying keys through third-party marketplaces such as eBay, in the vast majority of cases, you become a victim of scammers.
What to do when system activation fails?
The appearance of a message that the system activation has not been completed may be due to various reasons, and their solution can be carried out by different methods.| Possible problem | Causes of occurrence | Probable solution |
| When repairing a PC, a different Windows edition was used or a different key was entered. | This is possible if the device has been in a repair service, or from a private person specializing in the assembly and repair of PCs. Often in this case, a different edition of Windows is used or a key is entered, which is subsequently blocked according to the terms of the license agreement. | If everything was in order with the activation of Windows 10 before the repair (upgrade), and the problems "got out" after the intervention of "specialists", you will need to re-enter the key you have. If unsuccessful, you can try reinstalling the original Windows instance. |
| The system was activated with one key on different computers. | If the license agreement does not allow it, activation of one product on several PCs is impossible. | In this situation, most likely, you will have to buy a new key or license for each such PC. |
| An unlicensed copy of Windows. | When using unlicensed copies and versions of Windows (this, including various assemblies), not published and not licensed by Microsoft, system activation will fail. | Microsoft software authentication is available on the official website of the company in the corresponding section. If the license is not confirmed, the latter can be purchased. |
| Used device. | When purchasing a used computer with a 10 installed, it is possible that the key is used on other PCs and is blocked, as this is a violation of the terms of the license agreement. | Perhaps the hardware vendor has an activation key. If it is not available or you cannot activate it, you need to buy a new key. |
| Hardware configuration changes. | When significant changes are made to the hardware configuration of the PC, including replacing the hard drive or motherboard, Windows activation may not be possible. | For information on reactivating the system after a PC upgrade, see this article. |
To facilitate the subsequent activation of the system, you can use your Microsoft account. More detailed information about the innovation is on the official website of the company in the section "Reactivating Windows 10".
Should I use activators?
The Microsoft website explains that the use of various kinds of programs to activate Windows is in direct violation of the license agreement and the law. KMS Activators, Re-Loader Activator, and others, which can be freely downloaded on the net, are essentially cracking utilities. You use them at your own risk.Licensing Windows 10, except in special cases, is not a complex process and takes place automatically. The activation code can be purchased both in the official Microsoft store and from resellers. The latter option requires special care.
Windows 10 is the latest version of the OS from Microsoft. And it seems that it will stay on computers for a long time: some even say that all subsequent ones will only be its updates. All the more relevant is the activation of Windows 10. Let's be honest, not everyone uses legal methods for this, like buying in a store, when there is activator windows 10.
Below I will discuss the different activation methods. And also about what to do if Windows 10 does not activate.
1. Why activate Windows 10
Why bother with some kind of activation at all? The old versions somehow worked without it. Indeed, the top ten also provides for such a regime. But let's see what happens if you don't activate Windows 10 and try to continue working.
Light cosmetic changes like resetting the desktop background and constantly flashing notification about the need for activation can be called flowers. The lack of official support is hardly embarrassing either. And here inability to customize personalization normally already makes you fidget in your chair. But the most annoying thing is constant automatic reboots after several hours of work. And who knows what else Microsoft engineers will come up with in the next updates. So it is better to resolve the issue with activation as soon as possible.
For activation, the operating system provides for the use of a digital license or a 25-digit key.
Digital license allows you to get activated Windows without entering a key at all. This method is relevant for a free update from a licensed "seven" or "eight", when purchasing a "ten" in the Windows Store, as well as for participants in the Insider Preview testing. In this case, the system is activated automatically after establishing a connection to the Internet and processing data on Microsoft servers.
If buy a key for Windows 10, then during installation this key will need to be entered at the request of the system. Activation is performed automatically after connecting to the world wide web. Authentication is performed in a similar manner for a clean install.
Attention! Manual key entry and activation is required only when a particular edition is installed on the device for the first time. The Microsoft server will remember it and will activate the OS automatically in the future.
2.1. Activating Windows 10 by phone
If there is no connection to the Internet or the Microsoft servers are too busy and do not respond (this also happens), it will work activating Windows 10 by phone... I must say right away that looking for the corresponding item in the menu and settings takes longer than doing this:
- Click on Win + R, type slui 4 and press Enter.
- A window will appear with a choice of country, specify your own and click Next.
- It remains to call the number shown by the system and clearly follow the instructions from the answering machine. It is better to immediately prepare to write down what will be said.
- Then enter the received Windows 10 activation code and click Windows Activation.
As you can see, nothing complicated.
2.2. How to buy a key for Windows 10
If you need a product key for Windows 10, a license key from older OS versions like XP will not work. You need exactly the current 25-character code. Here are the ways to get it: together with a boxed OS (if you decide to go to the store for a disc), together with a digital copy of the OS (the same, but in an official online store, for example, on the Microsoft website), or under a volume license or MSDN subscriptions.
The last of the legal options is the key on the device, which is sold with a "ten" on board. If necessary, you just need to enter it at the request of the system. To be honest, this is not the cheapest option - unless you really need a new Windows tablet or smartphone.
2.3. How to activate Windows 10 without a key
And now I will tell you how to activate Windows 10 if there is no key- that is, in the good old pirate manner. Please note that according to the license agreement, you should not do this, and by law, too. So proceed at your own risk.
So, if you are looking for how to activate Windows 10 without a key and without buying a license for hard earned money, then you need an activator... There are many of them on the network, but choose carefully. The fact is that scammers have adapted to disguise real viruses as them. When you try to use such an "activator" you will only infect the system, you may lose data, and in the worst case, you will recklessly enter your bank card details and lose all your savings from it.
3. Programs for activating Windows 10
A good Windows 10 activation program will effectively bypass the defense mechanism and make the OS docile like a tame dog. A good program won't serve you ads or slow down your system. A good program comes first. First, it is constantly being updated and improved. Secondly, it really solves the question of how to activate Windows 10 for free and forever. Well, or until Microsoft learns to block it, and until a new version of the activator is released. Thirdly, the creator of the Ratiborus program on the ru-board.com forum leads a huge topic, where he answers questions and uploads current versions of his developments.
For Windows 10 KMS activator can be safely called the best remedy. Firstly, it has been developed for a very long time, so the author does not take experience. Secondly, it is simple for ordinary users. Thirdly, it works quickly.
With the activation of Windows 10, the most convenient, in my opinion, version of the program, copes effortlessly. Note that it may require the .NET Framework to function properly (many computers already have it).
I will list its main features:
- a very simple program that does not require special knowledge to use;
- there is an advanced mode for those who need fine tuning;
- free;
- checks activation (what if everything is already working for you, but you did not know);
- supports the entire line of systems from Vista to 10;
- supports server OS versions;
- Along the way, it can activate MS Office current versions;
- uses a whole set of tools to bypass the activation mechanism, and by default it chooses the optimal one.
It is also supplied with instructions in several languages, including Russian. It describes in detail the subtleties of work in different modes and other advanced information.
So how do you use it. Here's a step-by-step guide.
1. First, of course, download and install. If you don't want to install, download the portable version.
2. Run the program with administrator rights: right click on the icon - select Run as Administrator.
3. The main window will open, in which there are two buttons - Activation and Information.
4. The information will show you the status of Windows and Office. If you want, make sure you need to activate it.
5. Click Activation. The utility will select the best way for you and activate it. And then it will write the results in the output box just below the buttons. Make sure it says activation is complete.
Now let's configure automatic activation bypass - install our KMS service. This is a special service that replaces the corresponding security system from Microsoft, so that the keys are checked on the local machine. In other words, your computer will think that it has verified the activation with Microsoft, when in fact this, of course, is not the case.
6. Click the System tab.
7. Click the Install KMS-Service button. The label on the button will change to "Running", then the utility will report on successful installation. Done, the system is activated and will now refer to the service installed by the activator to check the status.
If you don't want to install an additional service, you can customize Windows Scheduler. Then he will independently make a "control shot" (reactivate if necessary) after the specified number of days. To do this, on the System tab in the Scheduler section, click the Create task button. The activator may warn that it will create a task in the program folder - agree with it.
- how to activate it. It is very simple to do this - first we add the activator to the antivirus exclusions, then we activate the system with the special utility KMS AutoNet.
Add to the activator in the antivirus exceptions
To automatically add the activator to Windows Defender exclusions, you need to download the script:
- To run the script in the context menu, select Run with PowerShell.
- Allow execution. To do this, enter the letter on the English layout in the window that appears Y(or A) and press Enter.
- Let PowerShell work on behalf of the Administrator.
- You can check if the changes have been made. To do this, open All Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Security -> Virus & Threat Protection -> Virus & Threat Protection Options -> Add or Remove Exceptions... The following paths must be written:
If a third-party antivirus is installed, manually add these paths to its exclusions:
C: \ KMS C: \ ProgramData \ KMSAutoS C: \ ProgramData \ KMSAutoS \ bin C: \ ProgramData \ KMSAuto
C: \ KMS C: \ ProgramData \ KMSAutoS C: \ ProgramData \ KMSAutoS \ bin C: \ ProgramData \ KMSAuto |
Activation
- Download the archive with the KMSAuto Net activator and run it. Password - 123.
It is better not to change the default path, because it has already been added to the antivirus exceptions 
- Open the C: \ KMS folder and run KMSAuto Net on behalf of the Administrator.
The program will start and immediately determine that the current system is not activated: 
Activation -> Windows Activation and wait until the program completes all actions. - If the GVLK installation window appears, we agree.
- Restart your computer after a successful message appears.
That's all. Open up All options -> System -> About system -> Change product key or update Windows version and make sure everything is done correctly.
P.S... We attach a PowerShell script to remove the activator from the exclusion of the built-in antivirus (suddenly someone will come in handy):
P.P.S. Old way of activation, (if it didn't work):
Click here to expand
To get started, download the program to activate KMSAuto Lite by clicking on the button below:
Unpack the archive and open the folder. Let's get started 🙂
- Run the file 1.bat as administrator.
The following window will appear, click OK:
- Run 2.bat as administrator.
Press again OK, the window will close:
- Run the KMSAuto file as administrator.
The activator will start. At the same time (and maybe even earlier), if you have an antivirus enabled, it recognizes it as a security threat. But don't rush to press the button "Activate".
Before the next step, be sure to add the activator to the antivirus exclusions. How to do it written
