How to check Windows 10 & 11 activation status and genuineness

Verifying the activation status of your Windows operating system ensures that you are using a genuine, properly licensed copy. Whether you’re setting up a new PC or troubleshooting license issues, confirming your activation is an essential step in maintaining system integrity and access to updates. Microsoft requires Windows activation to validate the operating system’s legitimacy and prevent software piracy. When installing Windows, you are typically prompted to enter a unique product key which is later verified through online or phone activation. In this guide, we’ll walk through four simple ways to check whether your Windows 10 or Windows 11 system is activated and genuine. Related: Five Ways to Check Windows Activation (All Versions)

Method 1: Check Activation via Settings App (Windows 10 & 11)

For Windows 11:

1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
2. Click on System.
3. Select Activation from the right panel.
4. Check the status – if it says “Windows is active”, you’re good.

For Windows 10:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Click on Update & Security.
3. Select Activation from the left sidebar.
4. Look for “Windows is activated with a digital license”.

Method 2: Use the Control Panel

The legacy Control Panel also lets you view activation status in both Windows 10 and 11.

1. Press Windows + R and type control, then press Enter.
2. Navigate to System and Security > System.
3. Look for Windows activation at the bottom of the page.

Control Panel in Windows 11:

Control Panel in Windows 10:

Method 3: Check Activation via Command Prompt

1. Press Windows + X and choose Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin).
2. Type slmgr.vbs /xpr and hit Enter.
3. A message box will pop up showing your activation status.

Windows 11:

Windows 10:

Method 4: Use the Run Dialog

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type slui.exe and press Enter.
3. The activation window will appear, confirming status and giving options to activate.

Windows 11:

Windows 10:

What If Windows Isn’t Activated?

If your Windows isn’t activated, you may see messages like “Activate Windows” or “Windows is not genuine.” In such cases, you can:

• Re-enter your product key by navigating to Settings > Activation
• Use the slui.exe Run command to access the activation window
• Contact Microsoft Support for help

Related Guides on MagnetClicks

• How to Add Users & Computers in Active Directory
• Create Security Groups in Active Directory
• Why Multi-Factor Authentication Matters
• Windows Activation Explained