What is a Microsoft account used for? You need a Microsoft account to sign in to your Windows pc, Xbox console, or any of Microsoft’s products and services, including Office, Outlook.com, OneDrive, Xbox Live, Microsoft 365, Family Safety, Skype, Bing, Microsoft Store and MSN.

Learn how to tell if your Office software is genuine. To help determine if your Microsoft software is genuine, go to our How to Tell site for more information. Here you'll learn about authentic packaging, including what to look for with product key labels, and Certificate of Authenticity (COA), how to report counterfeit software, and find out what your shopping and licensing options are.

Microsoft's products and services work best if you use the same language and region across all your devices, and in all of your app and Store settings.

Press this key. To do this. Command + Shift + B. Show or hide the favorites bar. Command + Shift + C . Open Developer tools. Command + D. Save your current tab as a favorite. Command + Shift + D. Save all open tabs as favorites in a new folder

An upgrade differs from an update in that it moves your PC from a previous version of Windows—such as Windows 10—to Windows 11. This FAQ is intended to answer questions about upgrading to Windows 11.

When prompted, enter the product key. You can find the product key on the sticker on the CD case or other packaging. If you need help, see Find your Product Key for Office 2007.

When you’re away from your console or your Windows 10/11 device, you can still get ready to play your next Xbox console game. Use the Xbox mobile app, the Xbox Game Pass app, or the Microsoft Store on PC to remotely install games—so your games are ready when you are.

If you're running Windows 8.1 or earlier, or if your PC doesn't meet the minimum system requirements to run Windows 11, consider moving to a new Windows 11 device. Find a PC that meets your needs. Set up your Microsoft account to transfer files and favorites. One account connects your device across Microsoft apps and services like Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Edge, and Microsoft Store.

Tip: If you're a Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscriber you get Microsoft Defender, our advanced security software for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, as part of your subscription.Learn more at Getting started with Microsoft Defender.

We’re continually releasing updates to our application, based on customer feedback. Check out What's New in the latest updates for Skype on desktop and mobile.