7 Things That Happen If You Don't Activate Windows 10

If you do not activate Windows on your computer, you can still access it for as long as you like. In other words, you will not be prevented from using Windows 10 even if you choose not to activate it.

However, there are notable restrictions if you do not activate Windows.

Millions of users have upgraded since the earlier versions, but not all have a valid activation key, serial number or digital licence.

Read on to find out exactly what you are missing out on! If you are still unsure whether activation is worthwhile, our guide on whether you should activate Windows 10 covers it in detail.

How Long Can You Use Windows 10 Without Activation?

It will not be pretty and definitely not perfect, but you can actually use Windows 10 indefinitely without activating it. Microsoft allows users to download, install and use the operating system without having to enter a valid product key or digital licence.

In addition, a non-activated Windows 10 can be used without restrictions for one month after the initial installation. This means that your system behaves as if it were activated for 30 days. After this period, the restrictions come into effect.

Windows 10 Limitations When Not Activated

The limitations and restrictions that come with not activating Windows 10 may change your perspective on running without activation. Since this version is not free, Microsoft has placed some important functions behind the paid version of the system.

1. No Personalisation

The first thing you will probably notice is that an unactivated Windows 10 will not allow you to customise your device.

Here is what you cannot do in the non-activated version of Windows 10:

Changing the desktop wallpaper. Users without an activated instance cannot customise the background of Windows 10. After the one-month free period, the background is reset to the default settings or replaced with a black screen.

Customising the colours. If you do not activate Windows 10, you cannot select a different colour palette for your system.

Customising the lock screen. Want to set a lock screen background when you step away from the keyboard? You need to activate Windows 10 for that as well. Users without an activated system cannot change the default lock screen.

If you are using an unlicensed version of Windows 10, the message "Windows is not activated" is displayed. The warning "Activate Windows now" also appears on the start page of the Settings app.

On each page of the Personalisation tab you will see the statement "You must activate Windows before you can personalise your PC".

2. Restricted Windows 10 Updates

Windows updates will continue to be downloaded and installed on your device even if your Windows 10 is not activated. However, you may not have access to many intermediate or optional updates that are made available to regular users.

On the plus side, you can still receive all critical Windows 10 security updates for free.

3. "Activate Windows" Watermark

Every Windows 10 installation that has not been activated has the "Activate Windows" watermark embedded in the lower right corner of the screen. This watermark appears over every window that is opened, even in full-screen mode.

If you are using Windows 10 without a licence, the text "Activate Windows" and the message "Go to Settings to activate Windows" will be displayed in the lower right corner.

Although the annoying text can be removed with a few tricks, you cannot truly use Windows 10 legally without a product key or original licence.

4. No Access to Windows Insider Builds

Windows Insider is a programme that gives users access to early updates and development builds of Windows 10.

Microsoft uses the insiders' data and user feedback to improve the updates before releasing them to the general public. However, you can only sign up if you have an activated Windows 10.

If you want access to the latest version of Windows 10, you need to purchase a licence. Fortunately, Licendi can help — browse our Windows licences to find the right option for you.

5. Pop-Up Reminders to Activate Windows

Users who do not activate Windows 10 have to deal with random pop-ups from Microsoft. Imagine the following: you are watching a film or playing a video game and suddenly a pop-up appears on your screen.

Quite annoying, is it not?

During the first month of using Windows 10, the pop-up message reminds users that their Windows licence is about to expire.

This serves as a reminder that the "free trial period" will soon be over. If you want to continue using Windows 10 without restrictions, go to Settings and start the activation process.

If you choose to ignore this pop-up, it may reappear in the future. To remove it completely, it is best to purchase a Windows 10 Pro licence or digital licence.

6. Legal Issues for Organisations and Companies

Section 5 of the Windows 10 Software Licence Terms states: "You are only entitled to use this software if you have the appropriate licence and the software has been properly installed with an original product key or by another authorised method."

Companies and organisations are also frequently subject to audits where licence information must be displayed. It is also worth understanding the differences between Windows 10 Home and Pro before deciding which licence to buy.

How Can I Activate Windows 10?

You may be entitled to a free upgrade to Windows 10. Although the promotional period for the free upgrade only ran until July 2016, you may still be able to get the free version.

Final Thoughts

We hope you found the information you were looking for. Now you can make a more informed decision about whether to buy the system or continue using it in restricted mode. If you decide to buy, purchase your licence from Licendi for the best price and instant delivery.

If you have any questions, our support team is here to help 24/7.

Best regards,
The Licendi Team