Windows Activation

Do You Really Need to Activate Windows?

Short answer: No.

You can use Windows without activation. The main downsides are:

• A persistent watermark on the bottom-right corner of your screen
• Limited access to some settings — most notably Personalization (wallpapers, themes, etc.), but these can be bypassed using the Registry Editor
• Windows Hello (biometric login) might not work

Other than that, everything works just fine updates, apps and performance, all still function normally.

Still Want to Activate Windows?

Here are your options, from most to least expensive:

1. Buy a genuine copy from Microsoft
   This is what Microsoft wants you to do. If you think activating is worth $100+, go ahead — I'm not gonna stop you.

2. Buy a Windows CD key from a third-party seller
   These are everywhere, and many people use them. They work just as well as the ones from Microsoft, but the way these sellers obtain them is a bit shady.
   If you're interested, check out this video by TechYESCity

3. Use an old Windows 7/8 key
   If you have one lying around (or it's on a sticker on your PC), it often still works on Windows 10/11.

4. Use an activation script
   These are getting more and more popular. They're free, simple, and work just as well as any other method.
   However, it's considered piracy if you care about that kind of thing.

   The most popular script right now is Microsoft Activation Scripts (MAS) — it's open source and actively maintained.

What's the Difference Between These Methods?

Functionally? Nothing.
Legally and/or morally? That’s up to you.

Your device will behave exactly the same no matter which method you use.
Just pick whatever helps you sleep at night.

Links and Resources

Microsoft Activation Scripts (MAS)

If you want to know more about your options, check out this video by Linus Tech Tips