Activate Windows 7 on this computer

You must activate Windows within 30 days of installation. Activation helps verify that Windows on your computer is genuine and hasn't been used on more computers than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. In this way, activation helps prevent software counterfeiting. For more information, see Activating Windows 7: frequently asked questions.

To activate online, you'll need your Windows 7 product key. You can find your product key on the computer or inside the Windows package—or in a confirmation e‑mail if you purchased and downloaded Windows 7 online. Go to the Microsoft website to see examples of product key stickers. For more information, see Where do I find my Windows 7 product key?

If you can't find your product key, you might need to buy a new one. To learn more, see Get a new Windows 7 product key. If you receive an error message saying that your product key is not valid when installing Windows 7, see Windows 7 activation error: invalid product key.

Activate using the Internet

When you begin the activation process, Windows tries to detect an Internet connection. If one is found, you can activate online. If you use a modem to connect to the Internet but aren't currently online, you'll have the option to activate using a modem.

To activate by using a direct connection

  1. Open Windows Activation by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, right-clicking Computer, clicking Properties, and then clicking Activate Windows now.‌

  2. If Windows detects an Internet connection, click Activate Windows online now. Administrator permission required If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

  3. Type your Windows 7 product key when prompted, click Next, and then follow the instructions.

To activate by using a modem

  1. Open Windows Activation by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, right-clicking Computer, clicking Properties, and then clicking Activate Windows now.‌

  2. Click Show me other ways to activate.

  3. Type your Windows 7 product key, and then click Next.

  4. Click Use my modem to connect directly to the activation service. Administrator permission required If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

  5. Click the location nearest you from the drop-down list, click Next, and then follow the instructions.

Activate using the telephone

If Windows isn't able to activate online, you'll have the option to activate Windows 7 using an automated phone system.

  1. Open Windows Activation by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, right-clicking Computer, clicking Properties, and then clicking Activate Windows now.‌

  2. Click Show me other ways to activate.

  3. Type your Windows 7 product key, and then click Next.

  4. Click Use the automated phone system. Administrator permission required If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

  5. Click the location nearest you from the drop-down list, and then click Next.

  6. Call one of the available phone numbers listed. An automated system will guide you through the activation process.

  7. When prompted, enter the installation ID that's listed on your screen into your phone's keypad.

  8. Write down the confirmation ID that the phone system gives you.

  9. Type the confirmation ID into the space provided under Step 3 in the activation dialog, click Next, and then follow the instructions.

  10. If activation isn't successful, stay on the line to be transferred to a customer service representative who can assist you.

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