A Step-by-Step Guide on Removing a Product Key from Windows 10/11
Introduction:
Windows operating systems, such as Windows 10 and Windows 11, require a valid product key for activation. However, there may be scenarios where you need to remove or change the product key associated with your system. This could be due to hardware upgrades, transferring your license to a new computer, or simply wanting to change the key for any other reason. In this article, we will guide you through the process of removing a product key from Windows 10/11.
Disclaimer: Ensure that you have a valid license for Windows, as removing a product key without proper authorization is against Microsoft's terms of service. This guide is intended for legitimate scenarios, such as upgrading hardware or transferring licenses between devices.
Step 1: Open the Settings Menu
Press the
Windowskey on your keyboard or click on the Windows icon in the taskbar to open the Start menu.Select the "Settings" gear icon, which is usually located above the power icon.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security
In the Settings menu, click on "Update & Security."
Step 3: Access the Activation Settings
In the Update & Security menu, select "Activation" from the left sidebar. This will display information about your Windows activation status.
Step 4: Change Product Key
Scroll down to the bottom of the Activation settings page, and you'll find a section labeled "Change product key."
Click on the "Change product key" link.
Step 5: Enter the New Product Key
A new window will appear where you can enter the new product key. Type in the new key and click on the "Next" button.
Step 6: Confirm the Deactivation
Windows will now attempt to activate using the new product key. If successful, you have effectively replaced the old product key with the new one.
Step 7: Restart Your Computer
After changing the product key, it's a good practice to restart your computer to ensure that the changes take effect.
Alternative Method: Command Prompt
For advanced users, you can also use the Command Prompt to remove a product key. Here's how:
Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Right-click on the Start button, select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)."
Type the following command and press Enter:
slmgr.vbs /upkThis command will uninstall the product key currently installed on the system.
Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Conclusion:
Removing or changing a product key in Windows 10/11 is a straightforward process that can be done through the Settings menu or Command Prompt. Always ensure that you have a valid license for Windows, and follow these steps responsibly and in compliance with Microsoft's terms of service. If you encounter any issues, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for further assistance.
