Ever needed your Windows 11 product key but couldn’t find that old sticker or email? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Whether you’re reinstalling Windows, transferring your license to a new PC, or just keeping a backup, knowing where your product key is stored is essential.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you how to find your Windows 11 product key using the Windows Registry and alternative methods. By the end, you’ll have multiple ways to retrieve it safely.
What Is a Windows Product Key?
A Windows product key is a 25-character code used to activate your Windows installation. It looks like this:
This key proves that your copy of Windows is genuine and properly licensed.
When Do You Need Your Product Key?
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Reinstalling Windows 11
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Transferring your license to a new device
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Upgrading or downgrading Windows editions
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Troubleshooting activation issues
Types of Windows 11 Product Keys
Before finding your key, it’s helpful to know which type you have:
1. OEM Key
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Comes pre-installed with your PC or laptop.
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Stored in the motherboard firmware (BIOS/UEFI).
2. Retail Key
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Purchased separately (online or in-store).
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Can be transferred to another device.
3. Volume License Key
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Used by businesses for multiple installations.
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Managed via Microsoft Volume Licensing Service.
Can You Really Find the Product Key in Registry?
Yes, but not always in plain text. Windows 11 stores activation information in the registry, but the product key is often encrypted or obfuscated for security reasons. However, you can still retrieve it using certain methods.
Step-by-Step: How to Find Windows 11 Product Key in Registry
Here’s the direct method to check the registry for your key.
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
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Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
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Type:
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Press Enter and grant permission if prompted.
Step 2: Navigate to the Key Location
Go to:
Step 3: Look for the Value “BackupProductKeyDefault”
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On the right side, look for BackupProductKeyDefault.
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Double-click it to see your product key (if available).
Note: This key usually shows the original Windows license, not always the current one if you upgraded from Windows 10.
Step 4: Copy Your Product Key
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Highlight the key and press Ctrl + C.
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Paste it into a secure document or password manager.
Alternative Methods to Retrieve Your Product Key
If the registry doesn’t show your key, here are other methods.
1. Using Command Prompt
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
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Type:
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Press Enter.
If your key is stored in BIOS/UEFI, it will appear here.
2. Using PowerShell
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Search PowerShell in the Start menu and run as Administrator.
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Enter:
3. Using Third-Party Tools
If the above methods don’t work, tools like:
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ProduKey (NirSoft)
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Belarc Advisor
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ShowKeyPlus
can extract product keys safely.
Can I Find My Product Key from a Digital License?
If you upgraded to Windows 11 via a digital license (linked to your Microsoft account), you may not have a traditional product key. Instead, your activation is tied to your account.
To check:
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Go to Settings > System > Activation.
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Look for “Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account.”
What If the Registry Shows a Generic Key?
Sometimes, you’ll find a generic key like:
This means your system uses a digital entitlement rather than a unique key. In this case, you don’t need a separate product key for reinstallation.
Is It Legal to Retrieve the Product Key from Registry?
Yes, if it’s your PC and your license. However:
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Do not share your product key online.
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Do not use tools to steal keys from other systems.
Tips for Safely Storing Your Product Key
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Save it in a password manager.
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Keep a copy in your Microsoft account.
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Store it on a secure USB drive.
Common Issues When Finding Windows Product Key
1. Key Not Found in Registry
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Try Command Prompt or PowerShell instead.
2. Key is Encrypted
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Use a trusted third-party key finder.
3. Digital License Shows No Key
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You don’t need one—your license is tied to your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use my Windows 10 key for Windows 11?
Yes, most genuine Windows 10 keys activate Windows 11.
2. What happens if I lose my product key?
If you have a digital license, you can still reactivate Windows using your Microsoft account.
3. Is the key in the registry always correct?
Not always—it may show a generic or old key.
4. Can I find the key if my PC doesn’t boot?
Yes, by connecting the drive to another PC and using a key finder tool.
5. Are third-party tools safe to use?
Yes, if downloaded from official sources like NirSoft.
Conclusion
Finding your Windows 11 product key through the registry is quick and easy—if it’s available. If not, alternative methods like Command Prompt, PowerShell, or third-party tools can help. Whether you’re reinstalling Windows, upgrading, or just backing up your license, knowing how to retrieve your key ensures you’re never locked out of your system.