Before you start
- A Windows PC
Method 1 Show the key stored in your PC’s firmware
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Step 1: Open Terminal
Right-click Start and choose Terminal (PowerShell).
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Step 2: Run the command
Paste the first command below and press Enter. The 25-character key appears if your PC has one stored.
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Step 3: Older Windows: WMIC
In Command Prompt, the second command works on Windows 10 and older Windows 11 builds. WMIC is turned off by default on recent Windows 11, so use PowerShell if you see an error.
(Get-CimInstance -ClassName SoftwareLicensingService).OA3xOriginalProductKeywmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKeyMethod 2 Check whether you even need a key
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Step 1: Open Activation
Go to Settings > System > Activation (Windows 10: Update & Security > Activation).
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Step 2: Read the status
Windows is activated with a digital license or …linked to your Microsoft account means you don’t need a key: reinstalling on the same PC reactivates automatically.
If the command shows nothing
- Retail copies: the key is on the card in the box or in the confirmation email from the store.
- Bought from Microsoft Store: check your order history at account.microsoft.com.
- Upgraded from Windows 7/8/10: you usually have a digital license, no key needed.
- Work or school PCs: activated by your organisation; ask IT.
Troubleshooting
“wmic is not recognized”
WMIC is disabled on recent Windows 11. Use the PowerShell command instead.
The command returns a blank line
No key is stored in the firmware. Check Activation for a digital license or look for your retail key.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same key on another PC?
OEM keys (from the PC maker) only work on that PC. Retail keys can be moved to a new PC if removed from the old one.
How do I link my license to my Microsoft account?
Sign in with a Microsoft account on the PC. In Activation, you’ll see “linked to your Microsoft account”, which helps reactivate after hardware changes.
Summary
Run (Get-CimInstance -ClassName SoftwareLicensingService).OA3xOriginalProductKey in Terminal to see your firmware key. If nothing shows, check Settings > System > Activation; most PCs have a digital license and need no key.
