Retail key - what is it?

Find out what a retail key is and where to use it in this practical tip.

What is a retail key and what do you need it for?

• Retail keys are a kind of password that can be used to activate software or computer games. It usually consists of a combination of numbers and letters.
• When purchasing software in the conventional DVD form, you will usually find the retail key in the packaging. It must be entered during the installation process and serves as protection against the illegal distribution of games and programs.
• Retail keys should not be confused with game codes from sales platforms such as Steam. These use externally similar keys, which authorize the download of the games - but not for the final activation.
• Be careful when retail keys are sold standalone on Ebay. Often these were previously acquired illegally and are therefore in danger of being blocked by the publisher.

In the next article, we will show you how to redeem Steam Keys.