How To Know If Windows 11 Is Genuine

People are currently reading this guide.

Ready to find out if your Windows 11 is the real deal? Let's dive right in!

Step 1: The Quick Command Prompt Check - Your First Clue

This is often the fastest way to get a preliminary indication. Don't worry, it's not as scary as it sounds!

• Sub-step 1.1: Open Command Prompt.

  • Press the Windows key on your keyboard.
  • Type cmd (short for Command Prompt).
  • Click on the Command Prompt app in the search results, or right-click and select Run as administrator. Running as administrator ensures you have the necessary permissions.

• Sub-step 1.2: Execute the Activation Command.

  • In the Command Prompt window, carefully type the following command:

    slmgr /xpr
            

  • Press the Enter key.

• Sub-step 1.3: Interpret the Results.

  • A small window will pop up. Pay close attention to what it says:
    • If it says "***<machine name>***: Windows(R), Core edition: Permanent Activation", congratulations! Your Windows 11 is likely genuinely activated with a perpetual license.
    • If it shows an expiration date, it means your Windows is activated for a limited time, possibly through a volume license or a trial period. This doesn't necessarily mean it's not genuine, but it's something to be aware of.
    • If you see an error message stating that the command is not recognized or something similar, it could indicate issues with your Windows installation or activation.

Step 2: Delving Deeper with System Information

The System Information tool provides a more detailed look at your Windows activation status.

• Sub-step 2.1: Open System Information.

  • Press the Windows key on your keyboard.
  • Type msinfo32 (short for Microsoft System Information).
  • Press the Enter key, or click on the System Information app in the search results.

• Sub-step 2.2: Navigate to Software Environment.

  • In the System Information window, on the left-hand side, expand the "Components" category by clicking on the + sign next to it.
  • Scroll down and click on "Software Environment".
  • Under "Software Environment", select "License Manager" and then "License Information".

• Sub-step 2.3: Examine the Activation Details.

  • On the right-hand side, look for entries related to Windows. Specifically, look for:
    • License Status: This should ideally say "Licensed". If it says anything else, like "Notification", "Unlicensed", or "Grace Period", it might indicate an issue.
    • Product Key ID: A genuine, properly activated Windows usually has a Product Key ID listed. The presence of this doesn't guarantee authenticity, but its absence can be a red flag.
    • Original Install Date: This can sometimes help you recall when the operating system was installed. If the date doesn't align with when you acquired the device or reinstalled Windows, it might warrant further investigation.

• Sub-step 2.4: Another Key Area: System Summary.

  • In the System Information window, click on "System Summary" at the very top of the left-hand pane.
  • On the right-hand side, look for the "Product ID" and "System Manufacturer" and "System Model". While the Product ID isn't a direct indicator of genuineness, it's a piece of the puzzle. Knowing your system manufacturer and model can help you verify if the pre-installed Windows version aligns with what the manufacturer typically provides.

Step 3: Checking Activation Settings Directly

Windows 11 has a dedicated Activation settings page that provides a clear overview of your activation status.

• Sub-step 3.1: Open the Settings App.

  • Press the Windows key + I keys simultaneously. This will open the Settings app.
  • Alternatively, you can click on the Start button, then click on the gear icon (⚙️) to open Settings.

• Sub-step 3.2: Navigate to the Activation Section.

  • In the Settings app, click on "System" in the left-hand sidebar.
  • Scroll down and click on "Activation".

• Sub-step 3.3: Review the Activation State.

  • On the Activation page, you'll see the "Activation state".
    • If it says "Active" and includes a message like "Windows is activated with a digital license ¹ linked to your Microsoft account" or "Windows is activated with a digital license", your Windows 11 is likely genuine and properly activated.  
      1. cauverypeakestate.com

      cauverypeakestate.com
    • If it says "Windows is not activated", or if you see error codes or messages prompting you to activate, your Windows 11 is not properly activated. This could be due to various reasons, including a non-genuine copy.
    • Pay attention to the "Edition" listed. Ensure it matches the Windows 11 edition you expect (e.g., Windows 11 Home, Windows 11 Pro).

Step 4: Being Cautious of Suspicious Activity

Sometimes, red flags appear in less direct ways. Keep an eye out for these:

• Unexpected Pop-ups: Frequent and persistent pop-up messages urging you to activate Windows, especially if they look unprofessional or come from unknown sources, could indicate a non-genuine copy.
• Limited Functionality: Some features might be restricted or unavailable if your Windows is not genuinely activated. You might notice limitations in personalization settings, updates, or other areas.
• Unusual Performance Issues: While not always indicative of a non-genuine copy, unexpected performance degradation or instability could sometimes be associated with tampered or improperly installed operating systems.
• Software Installation Errors: Difficulty installing certain Microsoft or third-party software could, in some cases, be linked to an unverified Windows installation.

Step 5: Verifying Your Purchase Source

Where did you get your copy of Windows 11? This is a crucial factor in determining its authenticity.

• Official Microsoft Store or Authorized Retailers: Purchasing Windows 11 directly from the Microsoft Store or reputable authorized retailers significantly reduces the risk of obtaining a non-genuine copy. Always keep your purchase receipts and license keys.
• Pre-installed on a New PC: If Windows 11 came pre-installed on a new computer from a well-known manufacturer, it's highly likely to be genuine.
• Be Wary of Unbelievably Low Prices: If you found a deal for Windows 11 that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Exercise extreme caution with heavily discounted or suspiciously cheap licenses from unofficial sources.
• Online Marketplaces and Unverified Sellers: Buying Windows licenses from online marketplaces or unverified sellers carries a higher risk of receiving a non-genuine or invalid license.

How to Know If Windows 11 is Genuine - Frequently Asked Questions

How to check Windows 11 activation status in Settings? Quick Answer: Open Settings (Windows key + I), go to System > Activation, and look at the "Activation state".

How to use Command Prompt to see Windows 11 activation? Quick Answer: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run the command slmgr /xpr.

How to find the Product Key ID in Windows 11? Quick Answer: Open System Information (msinfo32), navigate to Software Environment > License Information, and look for "Product Key ID".

How to identify if my Windows 11 license is linked to my Microsoft account? Quick Answer: In Settings > System > Activation, if it says "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account", it is.

How to troubleshoot Windows 11 activation errors? Quick Answer: Use the Activation troubleshooter in Settings > System > Activation, or refer to Microsoft's official support documentation for specific error codes.

How to know if a Windows 11 Pro license is genuine? Quick Answer: Follow the same steps using Command Prompt, System Information, and the Activation settings. The edition will be listed as "Windows 11 Pro".

How to avoid buying a non-genuine Windows 11 license? Quick Answer: Purchase from the official Microsoft Store, authorized retailers, or reputable PC manufacturers. Be cautious of extremely low prices.

How to report a suspected non-genuine Windows 11 copy? Quick Answer: You can report counterfeit software to Microsoft through their official channels. Search for "report counterfeit Microsoft software" on the Microsoft website.

How to reactivate Windows 11 after a hardware change? Quick Answer: In Settings > System > Activation, there might be a "Troubleshoot" option. You might need to sign in with your Microsoft account if your license is linked.

How to understand the difference between a retail and an OEM Windows 11 license? Quick Answer: Retail licenses can be transferred to another PC, while OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) licenses are typically tied to the first PC they are installed on. The activation status check doesn't explicitly show this, but the purchase source can indicate it.

1388240809095455842