Unable to install Windows 11 and Microsoft Office

Question

Hi,

My system ran into a problem due to a virus attack. I got it formatted. Now I am unable to get Windows 11 and Microsoft Office updated. I have changed my house so do not have the original box with me. I request you to please share the activation/product keys for both. That would be really helpful. 

Answer 1

Windows and Office product keys cannot be generated or shared. Activation requires a valid, previously purchased key or a digital license already associated with the device or Microsoft account.

For Windows 11:

1. If the device previously had an activated Windows 11 (or Windows 10) and was reinstalled, it may activate automatically using its digital license once connected to the internet. Check status via Start > Settings > System > Activation.
2. If a product key is required, it must come from one of these sources:
   • The confirmation email from the original Windows purchase.
   • The original packaging or Certificate of Authenticity (if available).
   • The Microsoft Store order history if Windows was bought digitally: go to Order history, select the Windows order, then Product key/Install to view and copy the key.
3. If the original key or digital license cannot be recovered and the device has never had an activated Windows 11 of that edition, a new Windows license must be purchased. Use Start > Settings > System > Activation > Go to Microsoft Store to buy a genuine license.

For Microsoft Office / Microsoft 365:

1. If Office or Microsoft 365 was purchased as a digital download from Microsoft, reinstall it from Services & subscriptions in the Microsoft account used to buy it, then select Install. No product key is shown for Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
2. If Office/Microsoft 365 was purchased as a pre‑paid card, the product key is on the card and must be redeemed to the Microsoft account. After redemption, installation is again done from Services & subscriptions.
3. If the original card/box and purchase email are unavailable and the product is not visible under the Microsoft account’s Services & subscriptions, a new Office/Microsoft 365 license is required.

If activation errors appear during Windows 11 setup or after reinstalling, use the guidance in the activation and activation‑error articles to troubleshoot, including checking for a valid digital license and using the Activation troubleshooter where applicable.

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References:

• Product keys for Windows
• Find your Windows product key
• Activate Windows
• Get help with Windows activation errors
• Why can't I activate Windows?
• Find and install your Microsoft downloads from Microsoft Store