There are three methods to which you can activate your product: Online via the internet, by telephone using our automated systems, and by a live support advocate. Online: When you begin activation, Windows will try to use your internet connection to activate online.

Create Windows 11 installation media. On the Windows 11 software download page , select Create tool now and follow the instructions to install Windows 11. Warning: Microsoft recommends against installing Windows 11 on a device that does not meet the Windows 11 minimum system requirements.

Uninstall or remove apps and programs in Windows. There are different ways to remove apps and programs, so if you can't find the one you're looking for, you can try another location. Note that some apps and programs are built into Windows and can't be uninstalled.

Locate your product key for Windows 10 or Windows 11. Depending on how you got your copy of Windows 10 or Windows 11, you'll need either a 25-character product key or a digital license to activate it.

If you receive a phone call claiming to be from Microsoft, or see a pop-up window on your PC with a fake warning message and a phone number to call and get your “issue” fixed, it’s better to be safe and not click any links or provide any personal information.

If you get an error code while downloading and installing Windows updates, the Update Troubleshooter can help resolve the problem. Select Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters. Next, under Most frequent, select Windows Update > Run.

Download drivers and firmware for Surface. Windows 11 Windows 10 Surface. Updates keep your Surface performing its best. Along with software updates for Windows 10 or Windows 11, it's important to make hardware updates, also known as updates for drivers and firmware.

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

Learn about the recovery options in Windows. Find out how to reset your PC, go back to a previous version of Windows, or use media to reinstall Windows.

If you need to reinstall Office, select the version you want to install and follow those steps: Microsoft 365, Office 2019, Office 2016, Office 2013, Office 2010, or Office 2007. How to uninstall Office automatically.