Ensuring that your copy of Windows 11 Pro is activated is crucial for unlocking full system functionality, receiving essential updates, and verifying that your software is genuine. Whether you’ve upgraded your system, installed Windows on a new PC, or purchased a new license, verifying activation status should be your first step.
This detailed guide walks you through multiple methods for checking your Windows 11 Pro activation status—using both graphical user interface (GUI) and command-line tools. Whether you are a casual user, IT professional, or system administrator, the instructions below will help you confirm if your OS is activated and troubleshoot any discrepancies.
Why Is Activation Important?
Activation ensures your copy of Windows is:
- Genuine: Confirms your license is legitimate and not pirated.
- Fully Functional: Unlocks personalization options, security updates, and premium features.
- License-Compliant: Prevents usage violations and related restrictions.
Unactivated Windows 11 Pro will display watermarks, restrict personalization, and regularly remind you to activate, making it essential to confirm your activation status promptly.
Method 1: Check Activation Status via Settings
This is the easiest and most user-friendly method to check if Windows 11 Pro is activated.
Steps:
- Open Settings
Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon or press Windows + I. - Navigate to System > Activation
On the left sidebar, choose System, then scroll and select Activation. - View Activation State
You’ll see one of the following:- Active – Windows is activated.
- Active with a digital license – Windows is activated and linked to your Microsoft account.
- Not Activated – Your Windows license is not validated.
What the Activation Page Shows:
- Edition – Confirms you’re using Windows 11 Pro.
- Activation state – The current activation status.
- Product key info – May show whether your key is digitally linked.
This method is sufficient for most users.
Method 2: Use Command Prompt to Check Activation
For users who prefer command-line tools or need more detailed license information, the Command Prompt offers a deeper look.
Steps:
- Press Windows + S and type cmd.
- Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
- In the terminal window, type:
bash
CopyEdit
slmgr /xpr
- Press Enter.
Interpretation:
- If Windows is activated, you’ll see a dialog box stating:
“The machine is permanently activated.” - If not activated, it will mention the evaluation period or indicate a problem.
This method is quick and effective for checking permanent vs trial-based activation.
Method 3: Use System Information
Another way to check activation is through system details.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
- In the System Information window, look for Activation Status.
Note: Some users might not see this field here. If it’s unavailable, use the Settings or Command Prompt method instead.
Method 4: Use Windows PowerShell
PowerShell is another efficient command-line tool that can help verify activation status, particularly in enterprise environments.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
- In the terminal window, type:
powershell
CopyEdit
Get-CimInstance -Query „select * from SoftwareLicensingProduct where (Name like ‚Windows%‘)“ | where { $_.PartialProductKey } | select Description, LicenseStatus
- Press Enter.
Result:
- LicenseStatus = 1 indicates that Windows is activated.
- Other values may indicate trial versions, grace periods, or failed activation.
This method is preferred by IT administrators for scripting and automation.
Method 5: Check via Control Panel (Legacy Method)
Though Windows 11 prefers the new Settings interface, you can still use the legacy Control Panel for some tasks.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.
- Go to System and Security > System.
- Scroll down and check the Windows Activation section.
If activated, you will see:
“Windows is activated” along with the last 5 digits of the product key.
This method is especially useful for those transitioning from Windows 10 or earlier versions.
Activation Status Types and What They Mean
| Activation Status | Meaning |
| Windows is activated | Your system is properly licensed and verified. |
| Activated with digital license | Activation tied to your Microsoft account, especially after a hardware change. |
| Windows is not activated | Activation failed; limited access to features. |
| Evaluation copy | Using a temporary or trial version of Windows. |
| Windows activation expires in X days | A time-limited license; reactivation required. |
| Windows is activated using your organization’s activation service | Activated via a KMS (Key Management Service) used in enterprises. |
Understanding your activation status is crucial when troubleshooting, reinstalling, or upgrading.
Common Activation Scenarios and Their Status
Scenario 1: Clean Install on a New PC
Status: Not Activated (unless you enter a key during setup or sign in with linked account)
Scenario 2: Upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11
Status: Activated (if previous version was activated)
Scenario 3: Reinstall After Hardware Change
Status: Not Activated initially
Fix: Sign in with your Microsoft account and run the activation troubleshooter
Scenario 4: Volume Licensing in Business
Status: Activated via organization’s service
Note: May require connection to corporate network periodically
What to Do If Windows 11 Pro Is Not Activated
If your check reveals that Windows isn’t activated, follow these steps:
1. Enter a Valid Product Key
- Go to Settings > System > Activation > Change product key
- Enter your 25-character Windows 11 Pro key
2. Sign In with Linked Microsoft Account
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info
- Sign in using the Microsoft account used during your original activation
3. Run the Activation Troubleshooter
- Go to Settings > System > Activation
- Click Troubleshoot to let Windows identify and fix the issue
4. Check for Hardware Changes
- If you’ve recently changed your motherboard, follow on-screen prompts to reactivate using linked account
Best Practices for Managing Windows Activation
- Always link your digital license to a Microsoft account.
- Save your product key in a secure location (email, backup drive, or cloud).
- Use original installation media and keys—avoid pirated versions.
- Activate immediately after installation to prevent feature restrictions.
- For bulk deployments, use tools like Windows Activation Management Tool (VAMT).
FAQs
Q1: Can I activate Windows 11 Pro without a product key?
Yes, if you previously activated it and linked it to your Microsoft account, Windows can reactivate automatically.
Q2: How do I know if I have a digital license?
Go to Settings > System > Activation. If it says “Activated with a digital license,” then your account is linked.
Q3: Can I use a Windows 10 key to activate Windows 11 Pro?
Yes, valid Windows 10 Pro keys can typically be used for activating Windows 11 Pro.
Q4: What happens if I don’t activate Windows 11 Pro?
You’ll face limitations in personalization settings, receive persistent reminders, and some updates may be restricted.
Q5: Will changing hardware affect my activation status?
Yes, major changes like replacing the motherboard can un-verify your license. Sign in with your Microsoft account to fix it.
