How to activate Windows?

Question

So I've used a Macbook Pro all my life, but right before that I used to run windows on a Lenovo. It has been a while and I have downloaded parallels on mac to try and run windows. I am on a family subscription for office 365, but I am unable to find my product activation key.

Can anyone please help me out?

Answer 1

To activate Windows, you can use one of the following methods depending on your setup:

1. Using a Product Key: If you have a product key, you can enter it during the installation process. The product key must match the Windows edition you are installing. You can use either a single-use product key or a Volume License Multiple Activation Key (MAK).
2. Automatic Activation: If your installation media is configured with a Generic Volume License Key (GVLK), Windows will attempt to activate automatically when connected to the internet. If your computer is part of a domain, it can also activate through Active Directory-based activation.
3. Using KMS (Key Management Service): If your organization uses KMS, it can activate Windows within the network. Ensure that your computer can contact the KMS server to complete the activation.

If you are unable to find your product activation key for Windows, you may need to check your Microsoft account or the email confirmation from when you purchased Windows. If you are using Windows through a family subscription for Office 365, it may not include a separate Windows activation key, as Office and Windows are licensed separately.

For further assistance, you can refer to the Microsoft support documentation for detailed steps on activation.

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References:

• Activate Windows
• Find and use product keys for volume licensing

Answer 2

Hello

So do you want to activate Windows, or Microsoft 365? These are two different things. Having a family subscription of Msft 365 doesn't mean it comes with Windows license. 365 is for Office Apps like Word, Excel, etc. Please clarify which product you are hoping to activate. Thanks!