Installation media, such as a USB flash drive, can be used to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation of Windows, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where step-by-step instructions can be found.

Learn how to activate Windows using a product key or digital license, check your activation status, and link your Microsoft account.

See I forgot the account I use with Office. From the Overview page, select Office apps and on that page, find the Microsoft 365 product you want to install and select Install. To install Microsoft 365 in a different language, or to install the 64-bit version, use the dropdown to find more options.

This breach allegedly exposed up to 2.9 billion records with highly sensitive personal data of up to 170M people in the US, UK, and Canada (Bloomberg Law). This article provides detailed information about the breach, the data exposed, and recommended actions to help you stay safe.

We encourage you to check the terms and conditions in the product packaging and the online retailer Xbox Game Pass product pages, which indicate if the code is redeemable in your country/region. You can also check with your local retailer.

If you suspect that your device may have malware you should have Microsoft Defender run a scan. Here's how to do that on Windows, Mac, or Android.

To redeem a Microsoft gift card, Xbox download code or token, select Redeem code below, sign in, and enter or paste the code or token value. Redeem Code. Tip: If you bought the wrong code, please contact the retailer.

Cast to a display from a Windows PC. You can wirelessly connect your PC to a TV, projector, or other kind of external display that supports Miracast. Turn on your TV, projector, or other display. If you're using a Miracast dongle or adapter, make sure it's plugged in to the display.

A BitLocker recovery key is needed when BitLocker can’t automatically unlock an encrypted drive in Windows. This key, which is a 48-digit number, is used to regain access to the drive. You might be prompted for the BitLocker recovery key during startup, due to a security risk or hardware change:

If some Windows functions aren't working or Windows crashes, use the System File Checker to scan Windows and restore your files. Though the steps below might look complicated at first glance, just follow them in order, step-by-step, and we’ll try to get you back on track.