Windows Product Key disappeared after update

Question

A few windows updates ago, (I assume the update discontinuing Windows 10) my product key for Windows 11 Pro disappeared. I lost the box I had saved with the product key in it. Is there a digital copy of my product key linked to my account??

Answer 1

Hi, I am Van. I'll be glad to assist you today.

If you use your Microsoft account to log in to the device, the digital license will be automatically linked to that account. And you can use your account to reactivate the operating system by using the activation troubleshooter. Kindly follow the guide provided at the link below.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/reactivating-windows-after-a-hardware-change-2c0e962a-f04c-145b-6ead-fb3fc72b6665#ID0EBD=Windows_10&id0ebd=windows_11

In the link, please proceed to the "Reactivate Windows 11 after a hardware change" section. Then follow the steps in the "If you have a digital license, run the activation troubleshooter" option.

Alternatively, you can try retrieving the license installed on the device using the ShowKeyPlus app, which can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store. Run the app to display the installed license key. Once you retrieve the key, navigate to the activation settings, then select the Change Product Key option to reactivate Windows.

Please let me know if you need any further assistance. I will be glad to assist.

Answer 2

I recommend reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance with the activation. They can usually reactivate the license manually or assist in verifying your ownership.

To contact Microsoft support, kindly visit the link below.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/contactus

In the link, click "Windows." In the pop-up screen, click the "Get Home Support" button. Type the concern (e.g., Windows Activation), then click Get Help. If you are already signed in, click the "Contact Support" button that will appear at the bottom of the page. Otherwise, sign in to your Microsoft account to proceed. Select Windows in the Product and Services, then click Confirm. On the next page, click the "Provide your phone number and a support agent will call you Product Activation for Windows" link. Provide your phone number, then click "confirm."

Answer 3

Get ShowKeyPlus from the Store and check the details it shows relating to the current installation. It may show Original Key and Installed key.

Also what is the detail about the licence type: OEM, Retail, Volume, MAK etc.

I see now you have tried this option. A MAK key shown by ShowKeyPlus is not really for use by consumers. I would suggest you need to contact Microsoft support directly using the Get Help app in windows. (if using the key shown does not activate windows)