Microsoft changed a lot of things when it launched Windows 10. Most importantly, Microsoft made it easy to install Windows without having to activate it. The idea is to reduce rampant piracy and cracked versions of Windows in circulation. But it raises another question. Why do you need to activate Windows 10 on your computer if you can download the official version and use it comfortably?
Turns out there is some reason behind it and you should buy a Windows license at the earliest. Let’s understand why and then we will see how to activate Windows 10.
Key features are missing
One reason why you should consider activating Windows 10 is its features. Windows 10 comes with a number of features, many of which are only available in the licensed version. Some of my favorites are system-wide dark mode, Windows Security and Protection, Focus Assist, and Windows Hello, among others.
You also cannot install and use Microsoft Office in Windows 10 unless you activate it. If you manage to install the crack or trial version, you will be greeted with a pop-up continuously prompting you to activate. That’s annoying and counterproductive.
What you get is a watermark at the bottom right of the screen reminding you that you are using the free version.
These are just some of the key features that you will be missing. And the Windows dev team is constantly working on new features that you’ll never get because you won’t be able to download updates either.
Bug fixes and patches
If you think that Windows updates are only meant to push new features or update old features, you are wrong. Microsoft regularly rolls out minor updates to fix known bugs and errors. These bugs affect the way you interact with the Windows operating system as well as Microsoft applications.
Microsoft’s development team is not the only ones looking for these bugs. Independent developers and enthusiasts are also working as freelancers through the Microsoft Bug Bounty Program. If you find bugs and report them to Microsoft, you will get rewarded for your efforts. These rewards can be substantial which is why some people have made it their profession and also do this job for a living.
Security updates are required
Windows Updates also contain security fixes for malware, viruses, and other recently discovered cyber threats. Fighting cyber criminals and hackers is like a never-ending battle. You can never beat them, you can only keep them, and Windows updates are one way to do that.
You can do your part by updating your computer, which you can only do after activating Windows 10 on your computer. You need these security fixes and updates to protect your data, your identity, and to prevent hackers from hijacking your system to blackmail you. It’s called ransomware, and it’s a nightmare.
Why not use the jailbreak key
There are many Windows users still scouring the internet for jailbroken Windows keys, hoping to activate Windows 10 on their computers for free. This is the problem. Most of these keys don’t work and the site that hosts/shares them is full of ads, viruses, and trojans. They are after your data.
Scams and fraud are also rampant. You will often find a shady agent on social media or some forums claiming to have a backup Windows 10 license key. He/she will ask you to pay in advance via PayPal or even Bitcoin, which will cost you less than 1/10 of the original price. You would think it was a bargain only to realize that you’ve just been scammed. That’s why you should only buy directly from Microsoft or its authorized resellers.
Windows 10 License Types
There are mainly two types of licenses. One is Windows Home and the other is Windows Pro. You get most of the features in Windows Home like Windows Hello, firewall, encryption, parental controls, and Defender. Windows Pro provides more control for developers, businesses and advanced users like Group Policy editor, Kiosk mode, access control, Azure support, etc.
When you purchase a computer with Windows pre-installed, it is called an OEM license and the cost of the license is included in the final product price. When you purchase a computer with DOS, you need to purchase a retail license from the Microsoft website or an authorized dealer. The difference is that the OEM license is not transferable. If you sell your computer and buy a new one, the retail license is transferable, which makes it a lifetime deal. That’s why buying a DOS-powered laptop can make so much sense.
How to activate Windows 10
There is no need to activate Windows 10 if it is already installed on your computer. If you purchased an online/offline license and have a 25-character product key, read on. Press Windows key + I to open Settings and go to Update & Security > Activation > Update product key > Change product key.
Ideally, the interface will prompt you to enter the key during or immediately after the installation process.
The key to success
Windows 10 license keys can be expensive for some, which is why I recommend purchasing a retail license. You can then transfer it. You should activate Windows 10 on your computer for features, updates, fixes, and security patches.
Next up: Want to update Windows 10 offline? Click the link below to learn how to update your Windows 10 system offline.
Categories: How to
Source: thpttranhungdao.edu.vn/en/
