you’re free to also choose not to activate Windows 10/11 when installing it.

It is legal to use Windows OS without activation.

Here comes the issue, what will happen if you do not activate Windows?

Activate Windows watermark

What are the disadvantages of not activating Windows 11/10?

you’ve got the option to check the explanations below.

Below we list some disadvantages of not activating Windows 10/11.

Microsoft’s answer about can I get updates if Windows is not activated

Annoying Activate Windows Watermark on Screen

You will have a watermark at the lower-right screen saying Activate Windows.

Go to options to activate Windows.

This annoying watermark will be there all the time unless you activate Windows 11/10.

Windows 11 Supported Intel Processors/CPUs

Still, you cannot use Windows Dark Mode.

You cant enable Dark Mode on your setup if you dont activate Windows 10/11.

Some updates like optional updates or security updates may be missed.

Windows 11 Supported Languages (Language Pack Download)

your system may miss some latest downloads, services, apps, or driver updates from Microsoft.

If you missed some security updates that help prevent viruses or malware, your setup may be easily attacked.

You may also miss some bug fixes and patches.

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A: you could use the free version of Windows 11/10 forever and you could still receive Windows updates.

The disadvantages of not activating Windows have been introduced above.

Q: Is it legal to use Windows free version?

What Is Windows 11 24H2? Is Windows 12 Dead or Still Alive?

A: It is legal to use the free version of Windows 10/11.

You candownload Windows 11or Windows 10 latest version for free from the official Microsoft website.

Q: How much does it cost to activate Windows 11/10?

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A: Windows 11/10 Pro costs $199.99 while Windows 11/10 Home edition costs $139.99.

You may alsopurchase a product keyfor Windows 11/10 from some authorized retailers.

Q: What is KMS activation and is it illegal?

Windows 11 23H2 Version 2: Installation Media Tool and ISO Files

KMS is usually used byvolume licensecustomers like medium or large businesses, schools, or non-profits agents.

KMS clients have to activate their devices at least once half a year.

Q: Is it a good idea to use a cracked product key?

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The key may be easily blocked by Microsoft.

We strongly advise you to support Microsoft and use a legal license to activate your box.

You only need to purchase a license key once and you could use it for a lifetime.

What Are the Common USB Drive Issues and the Easy Fixes

Q: Is it possible to download and install Windows 11/10 without a key?

A: you’re free to directly download Windows 11/10 from the Microsoft website.

it’s possible for you to try the OS for a month without activating it.

However, once the trial period expires, you are required to activate Windows 10/11.

You will also see the Activate Windows watermark on your screen.

Q: Does it affect the PCs performance if I dont activate Windows 10/11?

A: No, it doesnt affect the performance of your PC or the gaming experience.

Q: How can I find the product key of my Windows?

You may also contact Microsoft Support or your system manufacturer to ask them for your product key.

you might also use some third-party professional key finders like ProduKey, KeyFinder, etc.

Press Enter to execute the command.

Q: How to deactivate Windows 10/11?

However, only in some circumstances, you cantransfer your license to a new computer.

Q: Can I use the same license for 2 Windows computers?

A: No, you’re able to only activate one rig with the license.

Q: Why is my Windows 10/11 suddenly not activated?

This post lists the Windows 11 supported Intel processors.

you could peek if your gear’s Intel processor supports Windows 11 upgrade.

Way 1.

Through options

you could clickStart -> options -> Update & Security -> Activation.

For Windows 11, clickStart -> options -> System -> Activation.

Then you’ve got the option to clickChange product keyto type your product key to activate your Windows.

If the product key is busted, you might check the tips tofix Windows 10/11 activation key not workingissue.

Way 2.

Via CMD

Way 3.

Your machine will be activated once your setup is connected to the internet.

If the digital license is busted, you may find some solutions tofix Windows digital license not workingissue.

Download and install MiniTool Power Data Recovery on your PC or laptop and check its simple guide below.

MiniTool Power Data Recovery FreeClick to Download100%Clean & Safe

What is the next Windows update in 2024?

Windows 11 24H2 or Windows 12?

Things are not completely determined yet.

A professional PC backup software can save much effort.

MiniTool ShadowMakeris a top free PC backup software program.

It lets you freely select files and folders to back up to another place.

It also lets you select preferred partitions on your PC to back up.

you’re able to even go for the whole disk content to back up.

This tool also lets you easily backup and restore your Windows system.

Other professional backup features likefile sync, schedule automatic backup, incremental backup, etc.

It fulfills all your disk management demands.

Bottom Line

This post introduces the disadvantages of not activating Windows 11/10.

Some common FAQs about Windows activation are also listed.

If you have any problems with using MiniTool software products, you could contact[email protected].