How to Find Your Windows 10 & 11 Product Key: 2 Best Methods

If you’re trying to find your Windows 10 or Windows 11 product key, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re reinstalling Windows or just need your product key for security, this guide will walk you through two simple methods. Even if one method doesn’t work, the other will help you find the key that’s stored on your system.

Key Takeaways

• Two Methods: Learn how to find your product key using PowerShell or a third-party app.
• Guaranteed Solution: Even if your product key isn’t in the BIOS, a second method will work.
• Security Tip: Temporarily disable antivirus software to avoid false positives when using a third-party app.

Method 1: Finding Your Product Key Using PowerShell

For this first method, we’ll use Windows PowerShell or Command Prompt. This method works if your Windows product key is stored in the UEFI BIOS settings of your computer.

Steps to Find Your Product Key Using PowerShell:

1. Open PowerShell or Command Prompt with Admin Rights:
   • Right-click on the Start menu.
   • Select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin) depending on your system.
   • Accept any prompts to allow the app to run as an administrator.
2. Run the Command:
   • Copy and paste this command:
     wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey
   • Press Enter on your keyboard.
3. View Your Product Key:
   • If your product key is stored in the BIOS, it will appear here. Make sure to save it in a secure location.

Note: If this command returns a blank value, your product key is not stored in the BIOS. Move on to Method 2 for a guaranteed solution.

Method 2: Using ProduKey to Find Your Product Key

If Method 1 didn’t work, the product key may not be stored in your BIOS, but don’t worry! This second method uses a third-party tool called ProduKey. This tool will scan your system for the product key even if it’s not in the BIOS.

Important: Disable Your Antivirus Temporarily

ProduKey is often flagged by antivirus software as a “hack tool” because it accesses sensitive Windows information like your product key. To avoid interruptions, temporarily disable your antivirus.

Disable Windows Security:

1. Click on the system tray icon.
2. Find the Windows Security icon and open it.
3. Go to the Virus & Threat Protection tab.
4. Click on Manage Settings under Virus & Threat Protection.
5. Turn off Real-Time Protection and accept any prompts.

If you use a third-party antivirus, right-click the antivirus icon in the system tray and select the option to pause or disable it.

Steps to Use ProduKey to Find Your Product Key:

1. Download ProduKey:
   • Open your web browser and go to the official ProduKey download page.
   • Scroll down to find the download links and select the first option to download the ZIP file.
2. Extract the ZIP File:
   • Open the downloaded file in your Downloads folder.
   • Right-click on the ZIP file and select Extract All.
3. Run ProduKey as Administrator:
   • Right-click on the ProduKey application file.
   • Choose Run as Administrator.
   • If you see a prompt from SmartScreen, click More Info, then select Run Anyway.
   • You may also get a User Account Control (UAC) prompt—click Yes.
4. View and Save Your Product Key:
   • ProduKey will display your Windows product key and the version of Windows installed on your computer.
   • If your product key isn’t in the BIOS, it will still extract the key from your Windows folder.
   • To save this information, right-click on the result and choose Save Selected Items. Save it as a text file in a secure location.

Re-enable Your Antivirus

Once you’ve successfully retrieved your product key, don’t forget to re-enable your antivirus to protect your system.

Conclusion

Finding your Windows 10 or 11 product key doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether you use PowerShell or a third-party app like ProduKey, these methods will help you locate the key. Be sure to keep your product key in a secure location once you have it, and remember to re-enable your antivirus software after you’re done.

FAQs

What should I do if neither method reveals my product key?

If neither method works, your Windows installation may be tied to a Microsoft account, and the product key might not be stored locally. Check your Microsoft account for Windows licensing details.

Is ProduKey safe to use?

Yes, ProduKey is a trusted tool that has been used for years. The warnings from antivirus software are because it accesses sensitive system information, not because it is harmful.

Can I find the product key on the physical packaging?

Yes, if you purchased a retail copy of Windows, the product key should be on the original packaging or a card inside the box.

Why do I need to disable my antivirus to use ProduKey?

Antivirus programs may mistakenly flag ProduKey as a threat due to its ability to access sensitive system data. Disabling your antivirus temporarily will prevent this interference.

Can I use these methods on other versions of Windows?

These methods are specifically for Windows 10 and 11, but ProduKey should also work on older versions of Windows.