How to check and activate genuine Windows on your Samsung PC

Having genuine Windows on your Samsung PC ensures access to all Microsoft updates and downloads, maximizing your device's potential. Here, we'll guide you through checking your activation status and activating Windows if needed.

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How to check and activate genuine Windows on your Samsung PC

Note

Available screens and settings may vary by software version and model.

Understanding activation status

Determine your Windows version (Windows 10 or Windows 11) to locate the correct activation path.
Follow the respective instructions for Windows 10 or Windows 11 to access the activation status screen.
Review the activation status message to identify your current situation.

Windows is activated: You are activated, and your Microsoft account is not linked.
Windows is activated with a digital license: You are activated, and your Microsoft account is not linked to your digital license.
Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account: You are activated, and your Microsoft account is linked.
Windows is not activated: You are not activated, and you will see an error message explaining the failure. You may need to purchase a copy of Windows to activate.

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Check activation status

Note

If you do not have a digital license or a product key, you can purchase a Windows digital license through the Microsoft Store app.

Change option highlighted in the Activation screen

Identify your Windows version (Windows 10 or Windows 11).
- For Windows 10, click Start, then Settings, then Update & Security.
- For Windows 11, click Start, then begin typing Activation settings until the option appears, and click it.
Locate the Activation section and review your activation status.

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Activating Windows

Note

If you do not have a digital license or a product key, you can purchase a Windows digital license through the Microsoft Store app.

Ensure you have either a digital license or a 25-character product key.
- For Windows 10, click Start, then Settings, then Update & Security.
- For Windows 11, click Start, then Settings, then System.
Navigate to the Activation section and click Change in the Change product key area.
Enter your 25-character product key or log into your Microsoft account with a digital license. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the activation process.

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Additional information

For more information about activating Windows or resolving activation issues, consult Microsoft’s activation page. You’ll find detailed guidance on digital licenses, product keys, and linking your Microsoft account.

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Make sure your Samsung PC has genuine Windows

Check activation status If you aren't sure about the current status of your Windows, you can easily find it on your PC. On Windows 10, select Start, then select Settings, and then select Update & Security. Select Activation. Your activation status will be listed next to Activation. On Windows 11, select Start, then begin typing Activation settings

Update software, apps, and drivers on your Samsung PC

Use Samsung Update Note: Samsung Update supports most Samsung models. If the app is not supported on your device, use Windows Update instead. Please see the next section for more details. The Samsung Update app allows you to download and install recommended apps and drivers for your Samsung PC. It is usually preinstalled on Samsung PCs, but you can

Upgrade your Samsung PC to Windows 11

System requirements The PC Health Check app will help determine your PC’s compatibility with Windows 11. However, below are some basic requirements: Processor: 1GHz or faster. Memory: 4GB RAM. Storage: 64GB or larger storage device. Graphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver. Display Resolution: A high-definition (720p)

Manage apps on your Galaxy phone or tablet

Galaxy phones and tablets are app machines! They let you browse and download all kinds of apps to fit your needs. You can also uninstall or disable apps you really don't need or use. Once you learn how to manage apps, you'll be able to maximize your device's potential.

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Contact us online through chat and get support from an expert on your computer, mobile device or tablet. Support is also available on your mobile device through the Samsung Members App.

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