Reset a forgotten Microsoft account password
Change or reset your Windows password. Accessing the account of someone who has died. Learn how to reset or change your Microsoft account password. Get help with a forgotten Microsoft account password.
Applies To: Microsoft account dashboard
Which version of Windows operating system am I running?
To find out which version of Windows your device is running, press the Windows logo key + R, type winver in the Open box, and then select OK. Here’s how to learn more: Select Start > Settings > System > About . Open About settings.
Troubleshooting verification code issues - Microsoft Support
Microsoft account dashboard. There are a number of possible explanations for why verification codes don't always arrive. Read through the list of the most common causes, and see if any of them apply to you, or use our troubleshooter to help guide you.
Applies To: Microsoft account dashboard
Find your Windows product key - Microsoft Support
A Windows product key is a 25-character code used to activate Windows. It looks like this: PRODUCT KEY: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX. Locate your product key for Windows 10 or Windows 11.
Applies To: Microsoft account dashboard
How to start a scan for viruses or malware in Microsoft Defender
You can start a scan for malware any time you like. Note: Microsoft Defender currently offers anti-malware on Windows, Android, and macOS. From the Microsoft Defender dashboard. If you want a deeper scan, instead of selecting Quick scan in step 3, select Scan options and choose the type of scan you want.
Applies To: Microsoft Defender on Android, Microsoft Defender on Mac, Microsoft Defender on Windows
Update drivers manually in Windows - Microsoft Support
Check for Windows updates. Learn how to update drivers in Windows using Device Manager to update or reinstall a driver.
Create installation media for Windows - Microsoft Support
You can use installation media (a USB flash drive or DVD) to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where you'll find step-by-step instructions.
Fix Bluetooth problems in Windows - Microsoft Support
If you run into problems trying to connect to a Bluetooth device, here are some troubleshooting steps to try. Note: For general info about how to connect a Bluetooth device to your PC, see Pair a Bluetooth device in Windows.
Use Snipping Tool to capture screenshots - Microsoft Support
There are four ways to open Snipping Tool: Select the Start button, enter snipping tool, then select Snipping Tool from the results. Press Windows logo key + Shift + S for a static image snip. Press Print Screen ( PrtSc ) for a static image snip. Press Windows logo key + Shift + R for a video snip.
Activate Windows - Microsoft Support
Learn how to activate Windows using a product key or digital license, check your activation status, and link your Microsoft account.