Don't have product key to activate windows

[Desk14VO5]

Need to activate windows but don't have product key and either cmd nor PowerShell provides me with the product key 

[Max3Aj]

Hi @Desk14VO5, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
If your HP PC originally came with Windows preinstalled, the product key is likely embedded in the BIOS/UEFI. However, if you can't retrieve it using Command Prompt or PowerShell, here are your options:

Check if Windows is Already Activated

1. Press Win + R, type slmgr.vbs /xpr, and hit Enter.
   • If it says "The machine is permanently activated," you don’t need a key.
   • If not, proceed with the steps below.

Retrieve the Product Key from BIOS

Try running the following command in Command Prompt (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin): wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey
 

If a key appears, use it to activate Windows.

If No Key is Found

1. Check Your Microsoft Account

If you previously linked your Windows activation to a Microsoft account:

• Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info and sign in.
• Then, go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation and check if it says “Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.”

2. Check for a Sticker

Some HP PCs have a Windows product key sticker (usually on the bottom of laptops or inside the battery compartment).

3. Use Windows Troubleshooter

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation
• Click Troubleshoot and follow the steps.

4. Reinstall Windows with the Embedded Key

If your HP PC originally had an activated version of Windows, reinstalling Windows should activate it automatically.

1. Download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's website or Windows 11.
2. Create a bootable USB and reinstall Windows.
3. During installation, skip entering the product key, as it will detect the key from the BIOS.

5. Purchase a Product Key

If your PC never had an activated Windows license, you’ll need to buy a new key from Microsoft or an authorized reseller.
 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support