Learn how to redeem a gift card, code, or Office product key and spend your balance at Microsoft Store online, on Windows, or Xbox.

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.

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.

With the PC Game Pass subscription, you get access to the Xbox Game Pass catalog on your Windows 10/11 device. Join Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to enjoy Xbox Game Pass on both your Windows device and Xbox console.

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.

Earn points toward rewards by doing the stuff you do every day. It's easy and it's free. All you need to do is sign up, and Microsoft Rewards will be included in your Microsoft account: Microsoft Rewards. Once you've signed up, sign in to your Microsoft account to see your current points.

Download Microsoft Authenticator. Important: Microsoft no longer supports Authenticator versions that are more than one year old. Always keep your device up to date. Android iOS.

Change screen brightness in Windows. Select the Network icon on the right side of the taskbar, and then move the Brightness slider to adjust the brightness. (If the slider isn't there, see the Notes section below.)

A product key is a 25-character code that's used to activate Windows and helps verify that Windows hasn't been used on more PCs than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. Windows 11 and Windows 10: In most cases, Windows 11 and Windows 10 activates automatically using a digital license and doesn’t require you to enter a product key.

DirectX 11.1 is included in Windows 8, Windows RT, and Windows Server 2012. There is no stand-alone update package for DirectX 11.1. You can only install this DirectX version through Windows Update in Windows 8, Windows RT and Windows Server 2012.