Should I activate Windows 10?

Four years ago, Microsoft changed its original installation policy for Windows 10 Pro. Instead of downloading ISO images, Microsoft makes them available via tools such as the Media Creation Tool for Windows 10, which are always up to date.

Firstly, can it be used without activation?

There are many users who are encouraged to use Windows 10 Pro without a licence and do without Microsoft, as the company asks for a licence when installing the operating system, but offers the option of inserting it afterwards. There are several ways to acquire a Windows licence, either by buying an original licence or by acquiring licences from dubious sources that sell them for 5 or 10 euros. Most of these licences are OEM licences or cannot be resold. However, you can also use the generic keys from Microsoft.

Some computer brands also tend not to license their computers. Some leave Windows 10 Pro installed but do not include the licence. Others do not include the operating system at all. So what are the limitations of using Windows 10 Pro without activation?

Most important restriction when using original Windows 10 Pro without a licence

The most obvious thing that will happen is that we will see a message at the bottom right of the operating system reminding us to activate Windows 10 and asking us to go to Settings to enter the product key. This is an absolute visual nuisance.

Personalisation

But apart from that, the most important thing is that we don't have access to the customisation menu. It is not possible to change elements such as the wallpaper, the colours of the operating system, the themes, the lock screen, the fonts or anything to do with customising the start menu and the taskbar.

It is also not possible to use Microsoft's account services to synchronise settings between devices and share information between them.

If you need more information and details about the Windows 10 software, you can access our link.