Install Windows 10 without a key - here's how
Related Videos: How To Install Windows 10 From An USB Drive Without A License Key (May 2024).
Windows 10 is now very common on the market. We'll show you how to install and try the operating system without a key.
1. When do I have to enter a key when installing Windows 10?
Not everyone has to enter a product key during installation.
- Users who upgrade from Windows 7 or Windows 8 / 8.1 to Windows 10, for example, benefit from the fact that the activation of the system takes place via the computer's own hardware ID.
- The situation is similar if you bought your version of Windows 10 from the Windows Store or installed the latest Windows 10 Insider version as part of the Insider Upgrade.
- However, if you bought Windows 10 in a box, signed a volume license agreement for Windows 10 or purchased a digital copy of the operating system, you must enter a product key.
2. Installation of Windows 10 without a purchased key
If you only want to try Windows 10 before making a final purchase, you can also install the operating system without a key. First download the Media Creation Tool for Windows 10, which you can use to install Windows 10 directly, create an ISO file or copy the system to a USB stick.
- Start the Media Creation Tool. You can accept the default settings or adapt them to the required Windows edition.
- You now need a USB stick with at least 8 GB of memory or a DVD burner and a blank DVD in order to create the installation medium.
- When this is done, restart your computer and boot from the USB stick or DVD. The Windows installation then starts automatically.
- Select the desired language settings and continue the installation.
- You will now be asked to activate Windows by entering a product key. Click "I don't have a product key" at the bottom of the window.
- Finally, specify the version of Windows 10 to be installed so that the preparations can be completed.
- If you want to completely rebuild the operating system, select the "User-defined" option as the installation type. You also specify the target drive. Then the installation of Windows 10 starts.
3. Activate Windows 10 after installation without a key
If you like the "test" of Windows 10, you then have the opportunity to use the operating system in full and legally with a purchased key.
- The easiest way to activate Windows 10 with such a serial number is through the settings.
- Select the "Update and security" option and then activation on the left. Select "Change Product Key" and enter your purchased serial number.