Important: If your device is out of support, it is no longer receiving security updates from Microsoft and may become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses.Therefore, we strongly recommend that you update to the latest version of Windows. Each version of Windows is supported for 18 months.

There are a few common scenarios in which Windows running on a PC might be discovered to be non-genuine during validation. Repairs. If your PC has been repaired, you might start to see messages on your desktop that Windows isn't genuine.

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Most software that you buy directly from Microsoft, like Office, Windows, and Xbox games, comes as a digital download that you can download, install, or reinstall.

There are two ways to open Registry Editor in Windows 10: In the search box on the taskbar, type regedit, then select Registry Editor (Desktop app) from the results.

In the Background apps permissions section, under Let this app run in the background, select one of the following options: Always—The app runs in the background, receiving info, sending notifications, and staying up-to-date even when you're not actively using it.This option may use more power.

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Turn on Find my device. When you set up a new device, you can decide whether to turn on or turn off the Find my device setting. If you turned it off during setup and now want to turn it on, make sure your Windows device is connected to the internet, has enough battery power so it can send its location, and that you're signed in to the device using your Microsoft account.

Note: If you forgot your account info and had to reset your security info, you must wait 60 days before closing your account.

To activate using your digital license, you'll need to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro: Save your work and close any open apps.