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How to Link a Windows License to a Microsoft Account
First, you need to check your Windows activation status
3 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Since theWindows Anniversary update, Microsoft simplified the process of activating Windows as you don’t have to worry about keeping track of the product key. If you have a genuine copy of Windows, all you need to do is link the product key to your Microsoft account, and you’re good to go.
This article will show you how to link your Windows license to your Microsoft account.
Is my Windows license tied to my Microsoft account?
Typically, a Windows license is not tied to a single Microsoft account; instead, you can associate it with specific devices you activate it on.
However, from Windows 10 upwards, you can link a Microsoft account to your license. This can help activate and transfer your license to a new device during reinstallations or hardware changes.
How do I know if my Windows license is transferable?
Depending on the type of license you purchased, Windows licenses can be transferable or nontransferable. There are three basic types of licenses on Microsoft: Retail, OEM, and Volume licenses.
Further, to determine if your Windows license is transferable, refer to the terms and conditions of your Windows product or visit the official Microsoft documentation page.
How do I link my Microsoft account to the Windows digital license?
1. Check if your Windows license is activated
Once you’ve verified your Windows Activation status, follow these steps to link your Microsoft account to your Windows digital license.
2. Link your Microsoft account to the license
You can check out our guide showing you how to fixcommon Windows activation errors.
In the past, Windows users with local accounts would need to manually submit a product key to activate their Microsoft account.
However, now, the activation process is a lot easier. You can reinstall Windows without entering your product key.
Now that you know how to link your Microsoft Account, check the method toknow the license typeto ensure you can transfer your Windows license if needed.
If you’ve any questions or suggestions about this article, let us know by commenting below.
More about the topics:Microsoft account,Windows 11
Loredana Harsana
Windows Software Expert
Loredana is a passionate writer with a keen interest in PC software and technology. She started off writing about mobile phones back when Samsung Galaxy S II was on top of the world and she fell in love with tech of all sorts.
Whenever she’s not at her work desk, you’ll find her enjoying refreshing tea flavors, spilling stories on paper, and listening to the radio.
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Loredana Harsana
Windows Software Expert
Loredana is a tech enthusiast who tackles mobility, privacy, and networking in easy-to follow guides for everyone.
