If you're wondering, can I change Windows 11 product key through registry? The answer is yes. Changing your Windows 11 product key can be essential for several reasons, such as upgrading to a different version or activating a new license. While the standard method is through the system settings, advanced users might prefer using the Windows Registry for this task.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to change your Windows 11 product key directly through the registry, ensuring a smooth and straightforward process. We will also take a look at some of the conventional methods to change Windows 11 Product Key that are more convenient than using Registry.
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Part 1: How to Change Windows 11 Product Key through Registry
Part 2: Other Methods to Change Product Key in Windows 11
- Method 1: Change Windows 11 Product Key Using CMD/PowerShell
- Method 2: Change Windows 11 Product Key from Settings
Part 3: How to Find Windows 11 Product Key in Registry?
Further Insights: How to Reset Forgotten Passwords in Windows 11?Hot
FAQs on Can I Change Windows 11 Product Key through Registry?
Wrapping Up
How to Change Windows 11 Product Key through Registry
Windows 11 product key can be changed with a few simple steps. While using the Registry Editor requires caution, it provides a direct method to update your product key without navigating through the usual system settings. Follow the steps below to change your Windows 11 product key using the Registry.
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Press Windows + R to open the Run dialogue box and type the Regedit command.
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Navigate to the following path on the registry editor: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\SoftwareProtectionPlatform
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In the right-hand pane, locate the entry labeled BackupProductKeyDefault.
Double-click on BackupProductKeyDefault to open the Edit String dialog box.
In the Value data field, replace the existing value with the new Windows 11 product key. Then click OK to save the changes.
If you are not able to change the value using the Registry, you can proceed to the following steps.
Part 2: Other Methods to Change Product Key in Windows 11
Aside from using the registry, there are several other methods available to change your Windows 11 product key. Whether you prefer using the settings menu or command-line tools, each option provides a simple and effective way to update your license. Let's explore some of the most popular methods to change the Windows 11 product key.
Method 1: Change Windows 11 Product Key Using CMD/PowerShell
If you're comfortable using command-line tools, you can easily change the Windows 11 product key with CMD or PowerShell. This method is quick and straightforward, making it a great option for those who prefer working with system commands. Follow the steps below to change your product key using CMD or PowerShell:
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Type CMD or PowerShell in the search bar. Right-click on the result and choose Run as administrator to open the command prompt or PowerShell with elevated privileges.
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Type the following command and press Enter. Use your product key in the placeholder: slmgr.vbs /ipk [your-product-key]
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After entering the product key, type the following command to activate it: slmgr.vbs /ato
Once the activation is complete, you can check the activation status by running the following command: slmgr.vbs /dlv. This will display detailed license information to ensure your product key has been successfully updated and activated.
Method 2: Change Windows 11 Product Key from Settings
For users who prefer a more intuitive approach, the Windows 11 Settings app offers a user-friendly way to change your product key. This method doesn't require any technical expertise, making it accessible for anyone looking to update their license. Here’s how you can change your Windows 11 product key directly from the Settings menu:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.Click on System, scroll down and select Activation from the options on the right.
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Under the Activation section, click on the Change button next to Change product key. A pop-up window will appear where you can enter your new 25 - character product key.
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After entering the new key, click Next to proceed with the activation. Windows will then validate and activate your new product key.
Once the process completes, you’ll receive a confirmation message indicating that your product key has been successfully updated and activated.
Changing your Windows 11 product key through the Settings app is a quick and hassle-free method for users who prefer navigating through a graphical interface.
Part 3: How to Find Windows 11 Product Key in Registry?
If you need to retrieve your Windows 11 product key, the Windows Registry can be one of the places to locate it. This method is especially useful if you don't have access to your original purchase documents or emails. However, it’s important to note that while the registry can store product keys, they may be encrypted or not visible in a readable format. Let’s take a look at the steps to find your Windows 11 product key in the Registry.
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Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit and press Enter. This will launch the Registry Editor.
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In the Registry Editor, use the left-hand panel to navigate to the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\SoftwareProtectionPlatform
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Once you’ve reached the SoftwareProtectionPlatform folder, look for an entry called BackupProductKeyDefault in the right-hand pane. This value contains your Windows 11 product key. If it's present, it should be visible in plain text.
In some cases, the product key might not be stored in the registry in a readable format, or it may be encrypted. If you’re unable to find the key using this method, there are alternative methods like using third-party software or checking your Microsoft account if your key is linked there.
Further Insights: How to Reset Forgotten Passwords in Windows 11?
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FAQs on Can I Change Windows 11 Product Key through Registry?
Q1: Is Windows Product Key Stored in Registry?
Yes, the Windows product key is stored in the Windows Registry, but it is often encrypted or in a form that's not easily readable by users. To locate it, navigate to the registry path HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\SoftwareProtectionPlatform. You may find the key under the BackupProductKeyDefault entry, but it’s not always visible or usable in all situations.
Q2: Can Windows 11 Change Product Key for Free?
Changing a Windows 11 product key is free, but you will need a valid product key for the new version you are upgrading or switching to.
Q3: How to Upgrade Windows 11 Home to Pro by Changing Product Key?
To upgrade from Windows 11 Home to Pro, you can change the product key by:
- Opening Settings > System > Activation.
- Clicking on Change product key and entering a valid Windows 11 Pro key.
- Once entered, Windows will begin the upgrade process. Make sure your system is connected to the internet for the activation to complete.
Q4: Why is Windows 11 Change Product Key Not Working?
If changing the product key in Windows 11 is not working, it could be due to several reasons:
- The product key may be invalid or already in use on another device.
- Your system may not support the version you’re trying to activate.
- Activation servers might be down temporarily, so try again later.
- There may be a conflict with existing activation files; in such cases, using the Command Prompt or a third-party activation troubleshooting tool could help.
Conclusion
Changing your Windows 11 product key through the registry is a valuable skill but often does not get us desired results. Using CMD, the Settings app, or the registry - can make the process straightforward and hassle-free. If you are looking for a way to reset your forgotten windows password, you can utilize PassFab 4WinKey to swiftly recover.