How do I check my Windows key on Reddit?

You don't typically check your Windows product key on Reddit itself, as Reddit is a platform for discussion and sharing information. However, you might find instructions on Reddit regarding how to check your Windows key on your computer.

Based on common methods shared online, including information often found in communities like Reddit, here are two primary ways to locate your Windows product key or check your activation status on your PC:

Checking Your Windows Product Key

If your computer came with Windows pre-installed (often referred to as an OEM license) or if you purchased a physical copy with a sticker, the product key is usually embedded in the system hardware or provided with the documentation.

Method 1: Using Command Prompt

A common and effective way to retrieve the original product key embedded in your system's firmware is by using the Command Prompt.

1. Open Command Prompt:
   • Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type cmd and press Enter or click OK.
   • Alternatively, search for "Command Prompt" in the Start menu and click on the result.
2. Enter the Command:
   • In the Command Prompt window, type the following command exactly as shown:

     wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey

   • Press Enter.
3. View Your Key:
   • If a product key is found in the system firmware, it will be displayed below the command.

This command specifically retrieves the OEM key that the system was originally activated with at the factory.

Checking Activation Status (Digital License)

If you upgraded to Windows 10 or 11 from a previous version, or purchased Windows digitally and linked it to your Microsoft account, you likely have a digital license instead of a traditional product key you need to type in.

Method 2: Using Windows Settings

You can check your activation status and confirm you have a digital license via the Settings app.

1. Open Settings:
   • Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
   • Alternatively, click the Start button and select Settings.
2. Navigate to Activation:
   • Click on Update & Security (on older Windows versions) or System (on newer versions like Windows 11).
   • Click on Activation in the left-hand menu.
3. View Activation Status:
   • Here, you will see your Windows edition and the activation status.
   • It will indicate if Windows is activated and whether you have a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.

If you have a digital license, you generally do not need the 25-character product key to reactivate Windows on the same hardware; simply signing in with your linked Microsoft account is usually sufficient after a clean installation.

Summary Table

Here's a quick overview of the methods:

Method	Type of License Checked	How to Access	Output
Command Prompt	Embedded OEM Product Key	Open cmd, type wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey	Displays the 25-character key if found
Windows Settings	Digital License / Activation Status	Settings > Update & Security/System > Activation	Shows activation status and license type

By using these methods on your Windows computer, you can find your product key or verify your activation status, information which you might have been looking for or discussing on platforms like Reddit.