Windows 10 activated using generic key


  1. Posts : 20
    Windows 10
       #1

    Windows 10 activated using generic key


    Hey guys!

    I have updated my Windows 8.1 system to Windows 10 using the Media Creation Tool's upgrade option. The upgrade went smoothly, Windows was activated yet when I checked my key it is the generic key given out to Microsoft Insiders.

    I didn't sign up for the Insider program so I'm a little curious. Is my generic key temporary or will it stay as is pemanently?

    I'm sorry if this question has been asked before

    Darcorn
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 68,667
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #2

    Hello Darcorn, and welcome to Ten Forums. :)

    When you upgrade to the free 10 from an activated Windows 7/8.1 PC, you do not get a product key. The free Windows 10 activation is registered on MS activation servers for your PC instead. That's why you would "skip" entering a key during a clean install if done after you already upgraded to register the activation.
      My Computers


  3. Posts : 20
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #3

    Thanks Brink! That means I messed up royally because when Windows Setup asked me for a key during a clean install (my upgrade was activated before) I used the generic key.........Oh well. I think I'll have to do the whole thing again...........
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 68,667
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #4

    Yep.
      My Computers


  5. Posts : 20
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #5

    Good thing my OS is still fresh then! Will update this topic as needed
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 18,424
    Windows 11 Pro
       #6

    Darcorn said:
    Good thing my OS is still fresh then! Will update this topic as needed
    Not necessarily. In an elevated command prompt (run command prompt "as administrator") type slmgr /xpr

    That will tell you your license expiration date. If it is permanently activated, you have no problems.
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 20
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #7

    Thanks Navy! I'll do that and report back!

    Yep! Slmgr says it's permanently activated. That saved me a lot of work! :)))
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 239
    Windows 10 Pro 64bit
       #8

    If you run the Windows Product Finder (productkey.vbs) it returns a key which I believe is unique to that build.
      My Computer


  9. Posts : 20
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #9

    Actually I've used ProduKey but thanks for the suggestion :)
      My Computer


 

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