How to check if Windows is activated

Updated October 2026

In Settings

1. Press Windows + I and go to System › Activation (on Windows 10: Update & Security › Activation).
2. Next to Activation state you'll see Active or Not active, and your edition (Home or Pro).

With a command

1. Right-click the Start button and open Terminal or Command Prompt.
2. Type slmgr /xpr and press Enter.
3. A small window says The machine is permanently activated if everything is fine.

For more detail, including the last five characters of the installed key, run slmgr /dli.

Signs Windows isn't activated

• An Activate Windows watermark in the bottom-right corner.
• Personalisation settings are greyed out.
• A message in Settings asking you to activate.

To fix it, enter your key in Settings › System › Activation › Change product key, or see activation error codes.