Finding your Windows 10 product key using Command Prompt (CMD) is straightforward. Open CMD as an administrator, type in a specific command, and hit Enter. Your product key will then appear on the screen. This guide will show you exactly how to do it.
How to Find Your Windows 10 Product Key Using CMD
This guide will walk you through the steps to locate your Windows 10 product key using Command Prompt. By following these steps, you can retrieve your product key quickly and easily.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
Press Win + X on your keyboard, then select “Command Prompt (Admin)” from the menu.
This step is crucial because running CMD with administrative privileges allows you to access system-level details like your product key.
Step 2: Type the Command
Enter the following command into the Command Prompt window: wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey.
This command queries the Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) to get the original product key associated with your system.
Step 3: Press Enter
After typing the command, press the Enter key on your keyboard.
Once you press Enter, CMD will execute the command and display your Windows 10 product key on the screen. Note it down or take a screenshot for safekeeping.
After completing these steps, your Windows 10 product key will be displayed in the Command Prompt window. This product key is essential for activating Windows if you need to reinstall the operating system or transfer the license to another computer.
Tips for Finding Your Windows 10 Product Key Using CMD
- Run as Admin: Always run Command Prompt as an administrator to ensure you have the necessary permissions.
- Double-Check the Command: Make sure you type the command correctly to avoid any errors.
- Secure Your Key: Once retrieved, store your product key in a secure location.
- Use Proper Capitalization: CMD commands are case-sensitive, so use the correct capitalization.
- System Backup: Always back up your system before making any significant changes, including reinstalling Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I get an error when running the command?
Ensure you are running Command Prompt as an administrator. Also, double-check the command for any typos.
Can I use this method on any Windows version?
This method is specifically for Windows 10. Other versions may require different commands.
Is my product key the same as my license key?
Yes, the product key you retrieve is the same as your Windows 10 license key.
What should I do if I lose my product key?
Keep a copy of your product key in a secure place, like a password manager, to avoid losing it.
Can I share my product key with others?
No, sharing your product key can lead to activation issues and violate Microsoft’s licensing terms.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type the command
wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey. - Press Enter.
Conclusion
Finding your Windows 10 product key using CMD is a simple but vital task, especially if you plan on reinstalling Windows or transferring the license to a new machine. By following the steps outlined, you can quickly retrieve your product key and store it securely.
Remember, keeping your product key safe is essential. It’s like safeguarding the keys to your house. Without it, you could face significant hassles should you need to reinstall or reactivate Windows. If you found this guide useful, consider sharing it with others who might also benefit. For more tips and tricks on managing your Windows system, keep an eye out for upcoming articles.
Now that you know how to find your Windows 10 product key using CMD, you’re better prepared to handle any future software issues that come your way. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.