Windows activation is a method initiated by Microsoft to prevent piracy and ensures each Windows operating system copy installed on computers is genuine. Activation helps in verifying that your copy has not been used on more devices than what the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. Depending on how you got your Windows 10 copy, you may need a digital license or a 25-character windows 10 professional key. A digital license is tied to a Microsoft account that can activate your Windows copy when logging in through the same account.
Kinds of Windows Activation
Windows activation is categorized into consumer-level and Enterprise-level activation. Consumer-level activation is when you purchase a Key from Microsoft Store or any authorized shops while Enterprise-level activation is when you obtain a pre-activated Windows from OEM
How to Activate Windows
Windows activation can be done directly through Microsoft activation servers. Consumer and Enterprise Windows can be activated even if the PC goes through re-installation. Upon entry of the keys and Windows activation, the key details are sent to the Microsoft Activation Services which verify the validity of the key when it can activate more Windows copies and the key’s expiration. In case of failed verification, a Windows Activation error message will be displayed on the computer screen.
Moreover, Windows activation is also possible through Enterprise servers. Companies purchase Windows activation keys through Volume Licensing. Because not all computers must connect to the Internet, key management servers (KMS) are used. Microsoft permits the activation of several computers using the same key. After activating company computers, the keys will be verified by the KMS servers.
When to Perform Windows Activation Check
Once Windows activated, it is checked in case of a major change. Such a change could be a result of a hardware change or Windows re-installation. Enterprise computers may have to connect back to the servers of the company for a validation check. A few computers may need a new k y when going through re-installation.
The activation of the Windows 10 operating system depends on a unique installation ID, made during installation. Also, this ID is directly linked to the hardware on which Windows is installed. But, because this ID is linked to the system hardware instead of to a person, the Windows should automatically activate when re-installed on the same hardware. This means that it may not activate when installed on a different step even using a retail key.
