Backup your Windows 10 key prior to formatting the PC.
Backup your Windows 10 key prior to formatting the PC.
When purchasing my HP laptop, I received a genuine copy of Windows 10 Home pre-installed. There was no paperwork in the box. If I need to reinstall Windows for emergencies, I’d like to keep my activation key safe. What’s the best and most trustworthy method for doing this? Is there an option within Windows to check it directly? I’ve heard about third-party tools, but I’m unsure if they’re safe. I don’t want to risk losing the money I spent on a stolen key. Additionally, a friend with a Dell laptop wants to format his PC and back up his activation key as well. Is that possible too?
You don’t need to. The product key is kept on the motherboard and for OEM models it will turn Windows on automatically when you reinstall it, even after swapping RAM or storage, like moving to an SSD.
It seems he/she received a free Windows 10 product key. To avoid activation problems, the key needs to be linked to a Microsoft account.