When it comes to running a secure and stable operating system, using a genuine Windows 10 Pro license is crucial. Whether you're a business owner, developer, or casual user, verifying the authenticity of your Windows license ensures that you receive the latest updates, security patches, and technical support from Microsoft.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to check if your Windows 10 Pro license is genuine using a variety of built-in tools and simple verification methods.
Before diving into the verification process, it's essential to understand why using a legitimate copy of Windows matters. A genuine Windows 10 Pro license ensures:
- Access to critical system updates and security enhancements
- Full compatibility with licensed Microsoft software like Office and Visual Studio
- Protection from malware and other vulnerabilities that often come with counterfeit copies
- Stability and performance optimization over time
- Legal compliance for businesses and enterprise environments
Here are a few red flags that may indicate your Windows 10 Pro copy is not authentic:
- Frequent messages prompting you to activate Windows
- The watermark “Activate Windows” remains on the desktop
- Inability to access personalization settings
- Limited access to Microsoft services like OneDrive or Microsoft Store
- Windows updates fail repeatedly or get blocked
- The system behaves unpredictably or shows performance issues
One of the easiest ways to check the authenticity of your Windows 10 Pro license is through the system settings.
- Open the Start Menu and click on Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on Activation on the left-hand side.
Under the Activation section, look at the activation status:
- If it says "Windows is activated with a digital license" or "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account," then your copy is genuine.
- If it says "Windows is not activated" or gives an activation error, your license may be invalid or expired.
This method is especially reliable for those who purchased their license directly from Microsoft or a trusted reseller.
If you prefer a more technical method, Windows offers a command-line interface to check license information.
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Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
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Type cmd and press Enter to open Command Prompt.
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In the Command Prompt window, type the following command:
slmgr /xpr -
Press Enter.
A small pop-up window will appear displaying the activation status:
- If it says "The machine is permanently activated," your license is genuine.
- If it says "Windows is in Notification mode," or the activation is only valid for a specific number of days, it may not be genuine.
This method is useful for advanced users who want a quick, direct verification without using the GUI.
Another way to verify your Windows activation is by using the built-in System Information utility.
- Press Windows Key + R, type msinfo32, and hit Enter.
- This opens the System Information window.
- Scroll down to find the Activation Status field (may appear under “Software Licensing Service”).
Although this method provides limited activation details, it can still help confirm if your system is running under an activated license.
If you have a product key and want to verify whether it’s genuine, you can use trusted offline tools that help check Microsoft product keys. These tools do not connect to the internet and can show the product version associated with the key.
Make sure to only use verified and secure tools. Avoid downloading unknown third-party programs, especially if they promise free activation—they often come with malware or backdoors.
If you linked your Windows 10 Pro license to a Microsoft account, you can check activation status via your account.
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info.
- Ensure you’re logged in with your Microsoft account.
- Now go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
- It should state that the license is linked to your Microsoft account.
This linking adds an additional layer of verification and allows you to transfer the license to a new PC, provided it’s a retail key.
Here are some typical signs of a counterfeit or illegally sold Windows 10 Pro license:
- It’s significantly cheaper than the market price
- No installation media or certificate of authenticity (COA) provided
- The seller is unverified or doesn't provide support
- The product key is distributed as a volume license meant for corporations
- Activation works initially but fails after a few days or weeks
Always purchase your license from a trusted source. Retail, OEM, and volume licenses all have different use cases and limitations.
If you find out your license is not genuine, take action immediately to avoid security or legal issues. Here’s what you can do:
- Purchase a new Windows 10 Pro license from an authorized reseller or directly from Microsoft
- Reinstall Windows using the official Media Creation Tool
- Contact Microsoft Support for help validating your system and migrating to a legal version
Running unauthorized or pirated copies of Windows can leave you exposed to cyber threats and restrict essential features. Addressing the issue early will save you time and potential headaches later.
Verifying whether your Windows 10 Pro license is genuine is a crucial step in maintaining a secure and reliable system. From using system settings and command-line tools to cross-referencing with your Microsoft account, multiple methods exist to confirm the authenticity of your installation.
Ensuring your license is legitimate not only unlocks all features but also guarantees access to vital updates and support. Whether you're using Windows 10 Pro for development, business, or personal use, staying compliant and secure should always be a priority.
If your current license raises doubts, it’s wise to act now. A genuine copy of Windows 10 Pro is an investment in your system’s performance, stability, and future.