In this article, we will discuss how to spot a genuine Windows OS and the risks involved in using a fake Windows copy. This guide will help you to determine the authenticity of your installed version of Windows by highlighting some red flags that will tell if it is not a genuine copy. It will also provide you with tips on how to identify legitimate sellers and how to activate your Windows with a legit product key.

With the increasing popularity of pirated software and hardware, users need to be able to identify whether their copy of Windows is genuine or activated. Using counterfeit software and infected computers can result in system failure, theft, and data loss. It can also result in legal consequences for the user.

What is Genuine Windows Activation?

Windows activation is a process used by Microsoft to prevent unauthorized use of its software. It verifies that a particular copy of the Windows operating system is currently activated and available for use, making it a genuine Windows copy.

To activate the operating system, a user must input a unique product key during the installation process. This code is unique to each copy of Windows. It is the method used to confirm the identity of the user and the validity of the license.

There are a couple of signs that will let you know whether or not your copy of a genuine Windows is activated or authentic.

Why do you need to validate Windows authenticity and activation?

If you prefer to go for a genuine Windows 10 license, you are putting in all the effort to secure your operating system from security threats. Threats include malware and viruses. You can visit the Microsoft Store and buy genuine Windows. Alternatively, you can buy an affordable product key for a genuine Windows product key from a reputable seller. Then enter it manually to activate your Windows and operate it successfully.

Using an activated and genuine Windows is the safest way to ensure you are not at risk of viruses and malware. With a genuine version, all operational updates and security measures by Microsoft will be available to protect your system against malicious software.

Fake Windows operating systems do not have genuine authentication and thus, will not be subjected to any security patches by Microsoft. Unfortunately, these counterfeit versions can open the door for cybercriminal activity such as infecting your computer with viruses or malware that could damage it or steal your important data. For this reason, it is highly recommended to only genuine Windows, activated copies of genuine Windows 10 to keep your device safe from viruses, malware, and other internet threats.

4 Common Red Flags to spot a not genuine Windows or unactivated Windows

1. The system will have a watermark that reads “Not genuine” or “Activated using this product key.” This watermark is usually displayed in the lower right-hand corner of the screen. This indicates that your product key was not validated by Microsoft’s activation servers. It may be due to the key being counterfeit, or not compatible with your current Windows edition.

2. When you get a message saying “Activation failed” Windows cannot activate it because it is already activated on a device with the unique product key. This means that the product key is no longer valid and may have already been used or blocked by Microsoft.

3. Clicking “Contact Support” redirects you to an unresponsive page, or attempting to contact help automatically connects you to scammers posing as Microsoft support personnel who are trying to trick you into revealing your personal information. This includes asking for your account name, password, banking information, and many other personal data. Remember that Microsoft will never ask for any of these.

4. If you see a message that reads “Your product has been blocked,” this means Microsoft has detected that you are using a duplicate or fraudulent product key.

If you get any of these indicators or error messages, there is a high chance that the product key purchased is fake, re-sold by fraudulent suppliers, or was already blocked by Microsoft for misuse. To avoid these from happening, it is recommended that you only buy from reputable sellers.

What are the risks involved if it is not a Genuine Windows copy?

Your personal information could be at risk if you use a fake or unactivated copy of Windows-

When it comes to the security of your personal information, it’s always best to use legitimate sellers and make sure you have a safe purchase. If you’re running a fake Windows operating system – or one that has not been activated – then your personal information could be in jeopardy. This could include anything from your photos to financial information, email addresses, Social Security numbers, and more. Avoid putting yourself at risk and make sure that it is a genuine Windows copy and activated for added security.

Using a fake or unactivated copy of Windows 10 could lead to viruses and malware-

Using a genuine and activated copy of Windows 10 is the safest way to ensure you are not at risk of viruses and malware. With a genuine version, all operational updates and security measures by Microsoft will be available to protect your system against malicious software. Fake windows 10 operating systems do not have genuine authentication and thus, will not be subjected to any security patches by Microsoft.

Unfortunately, these counterfeit versions can open the door for cybercriminal activity such as infecting your computer with viruses or malware that could damage it or steal your important data. For this reason, it is highly recommended only to use genuine Windows and an activated copy to keep your device safe from viruses, malware, and other internet threats.

You could be scammed by someone who sells you a not genuine Windows or an unactivated copy of Windows-

Purchasing an unactivated or counterfeit copy of Windows 10 online could be risky. While the price tag may look attractive, it could end up costing you much more than you bargained for. You run the risk of not only having a fake version of Windows 10 on your computer but that it almost certainly won’t be as secure with reduced protection against malware and viruses.

Your computer could be damaged if you use a fake or unactivated copy of Windows 10-

With the widespread availability of counterfeit software, it’s easy to be tempted by a cheap copy of Windows. However, using an unactivated version of this system can put your computer at risk. Fake copies may contain malware which can compromise data and cause problems with overall performance.

Also, without activation key verification, you could be missing out on important security and performance updates that are designed to keep your system running smoothly. In the worst cases, unactivated Windows 10 operating systems could even cause physical damage to your device. Avoid these risks and make sure that your system is always activated for maximum protection and reliability.

You could be fined for using a fake or unactivated copy of Windows-

If you’re using a fake or unactivated copy of Microsoft Windows 10, you might want to think twice – unauthorized users are vulnerable to hefty fines. Microsoft actively collaborates with law enforcement to identify and take action against users utilizing illegal copies of their software.

Here is an article from MakeUseOf about the dangers of using not genuine Windows on your computer.

There are a few ways to validate if it’s a genuine Windows copy and if it’s activated

You can check if Windows is activated using Windows Settings to see your operating system’s activation status. It is one of the best ways to validate it. This method is ideal for the Windows 10 operating system. If you have planned to get a genuine Windows license key buy, checking the activation status is a mandatory step.

To do that, proceed to the Start Menu and click on Settings. For the next step, go to Update and Security tab and click on Activation. The right-hand panel that gets displayed will be showing if your Windows has been appropriately activated.

Using Windows Settings:

In case a genuine Windows is not activated, the right-hand panel of the Update and Security tab shows the same. It should also state that the “Activation of Windows on the concerned device is not possible as it has not been connected to the organization’s activation server”. It generally occurs when you are using a genuine Windows Pro for business. Checking your organizational network’s connection settings is one step to ensure whether your activation status’s frailty is due to improper connection. You can also try troubleshooting with your organization’s tech support guy.

Through Control Panel:

Windows 10 Home and Pro versions do not prefer the Control Panel operations. In other words, the Control Panel is becoming redundant with the advanced Windows versions. But this age-old way is the simplest method to validate the activation status and genuineness of earlier Windows versions, like Windows 7 and 8.1.

Once you reach your Control Panel Home, view the System Properties of your current operating system in use by clicking on All Control Panel Items. The System Properties window reveals your system’s necessary information, including RAM, Processor, Windows Edition, and the like. At the bottom of the same window, you can view the Activation status. Though, it will not reveal if you have chosen to buy a relevant version’s product key or activated it using a digital license.

Conversely, you can go for the command prompt Run and choose Control System to directly open the System Properties window instead of making a roundabout through the Control Panel.

Use the Command Prompt to check that you have a genuine Windows copy:

You can also check if Windows is activated by Command Prompt. It is one of the most effortless and safest ways to validate the activation status and authentication of all your Windows versions. Opening the command prompt Run and entering the unique syntax- cmd, in the command line is the primary step. You can also choose to run the command slmgr/xpr to reveal a dialogue box with the Windows Activation information. If you had chosen to go with a genuine Windows 10 Home license key buy, the dialogue box would show that the machine has been permanently activated.

If the operating system version has not been activated, then the dialogue box will show that Windows is in notification mode.

What if it’s a genuine Windows but not yet activated?

If you’ve recently purchased a copy of Windows, you’ll need to activate it in order to use it. Here’s a quick guide on how to do so using a product key.

Executing the process of activating your Windows product key is vital. It allows you full access to the Microsoft Windows operating system. The activation process confirms that your copy of Windows is genuine. It also has not been used on more computers than the Microsoft Software License Terms allow. To begin, you’ll need a valid product key for the version of the operating system you are using. This information can be found on either the digital receipt from your purchase or on a sticker directly on your physical device.

Ensuring that your copy of Windows is genuine is incredibly important. Not only does this practice protect you from malicious software, but it also ensures that you get the most out of your investment. Microsoft has implemented a series of security methods to authenticate and activate your license, so you can take advantage of all the features included in your version of Windows.

This helps maintain optimal performance and better compatibility with driver updates and application support. In addition, getting a genuine copy means access to Microsoft customer care services. With all these advantages, there’s no reason to compromise on the quality or protection by having an unlicensed version; it pays to invest in a genuine copy and activate Windows appropriately.

How can I buy affordable yet genuine Windows product keys online?

It can be difficult to know whether the key purchased is legitimate or not, therefore, researching safe sources of purchasing is vital. Many websites offer discounts and bundle deals perfect for those in search of an inexpensive yet reliable Windows experience. With the right research, finding safe, authentic, and affordable keys is easy with the vast selection available.

Look for Reviews

Reviews are a great way for a customer to get insight into how other people have experienced doing business with the seller in question. Positive reviews are generally good indicators of a supplier’s legitimacy. But keep in mind that false reviews can also be created for both good and bad reasons.

Excellent Customer Support

Look for signs of active and responsive customer support via chat or email. Reputable sellers will always have either or all of these support options. Try contacting their support line to see how responsive they are before making your purchase. Any seller with an excellent track record of helping customers solve their problems will likely have a very good customer helpline and will also be interested in building a long-term relationship with you.

Money Back Guarantee

Most legitimate sellers offer a money-back guarantee on their products to allow you to try the product risk-free. This shows their commitment to the quality of their products as well as their confidence in their ability to solve your problems.

Many legitimate sellers also offer replacement guarantees in case your product stops working due to a technical problem within a certain period.

If you are looking for a legitimate seller that has all these good qualities, try checking out reputable stores like Microsoft Instant and cheap Software ✓ | Turnkey Point. The company offers a wide range of genuine software products at competitive prices and has a proven track record of satisfied customers.

For more information about tech and software solutions, visit our blog at turnkeypoint.com. We offer a wealth of knowledge and insights, as well as helpful advice.

Wrapping up:

If you have a brand new computer with a pre-installed genuine Windows 10 Home or Pro version, it might still need activation. You can either buy a product key for Windows 10 Pro and enter it in the Activate Windows Now panel popping up from the Change Product Key under the Activation option. You will find it on the Update and Security panel. Reinstalling Windows 10 on your earlier device will activate it automatically once online if you have done a Windows 10 Home license key buy.

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