In a previous blog, we reported that Microsoft released the latest version of its flagship OS. The tech behemoth then outlined its intention to develop more powerful features under the guise of software upgrades rather than launching a new Windows version.
This means that we shouldn’t foresee Windows 11 or 12 soon.
So if you are thinking about upgrading to Microsoft Windows 10 Home Edition v1903, this is the best time to get it.
Using Microsoft Windows 10 Without License
Microsoft makes Windows 10 models available for free download and installation to all. It also added this option to the Windows 10 activation prompt, allowing you to use the app without an activation key.
It will work great with a few limitations but bear in mind that it will ONLY WORK FOR 30 DAYS.
If you continue to use a supported operating system after the trial period expires, you can purchase a licensed copy. As you might be aware, running an unsupported operating system precludes Microsoft from fixing bugs or other problems. You will be responsible for troubleshooting and resolving the issue on your own. If you’re a super tech nerd, this is probably great, but if you’re not, I strongly advise you to purchase your product key.
If the price puts you off, you can get an OEM copy – which is the same thing – for less from app stores like Softvire. So, whether you want to install Windows 10 in Boot Camp or create media for virtual machines, you don’t actually need to break your bank.
The Restrictions of Unlicensed Windows 10
Don’t be misled. Installing an operating system without including a license key or serial number will not actually unlock it. Sure, it will work, but there will be many limitations.
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Obnoxious Warnings
If you recall, on Windows XP, Microsoft used a Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) to prevent you from accessing your device unless you had a product activation key. However, in later versions, Microsoft replaced the WGA with obnoxious warnings to run unlicensed Windows.
At first, you won’t notice any troubles, but eventually, Windows will start nagging you to get a license.
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Watermark
A watermark will appear in the bottom-right corner of your computer to remind you of your unsupported operating system. Then you’ll see a message that says, “Windows isn’t activated.” Any time you open an application, you will be prompted to “Activate Windows now.”
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Wallpaper
You will soon be unable to change your screen wallpaper. You’ll see a message saying, “You need to allow Windows before you can personalize your PC” on the Personalization > Background screen in the Settings app, and the options for changing your wallpaper will be unclickable.
There’s a hack here, though.
Other methods of changing the wallpaper are also available. In File Explorer, right-click an image and choose “Set as a desktop backdrop.” Another option is to open a picture in the Photos app, press the menu button, select “Set as,” and then select “Set as background.”
Apart from these restrictions, Windows 10 will continue to work indefinitely.
The only way to get rid of this irritation is to activate your operating system with an official key.
However, there are a few ideas about activating it at a lower cost or even for free.
Activating Your Windows 10
There are two methods for activating the Windows 10 operating system. Here’s a rundown:
- Buy from Microsoft
- Buy OEM from software distributors
- Activate with a free product key
Let’s take a closer look at each of these options:
Purchasing a Product Key for Microsoft Windows 10 Home Edition from Microsoft
A Home edition costs $139 from Microsoft’s official store. This purchase is valid for one year and will automatically unlock your new Windows installation. There is no need to buy a physical license.
However, prices can differ depending on your country of origin. In different countries and currencies, Microsoft charges different rates.
Buy OEM from software distributors.
Our OEM vs. Retail blog explained how OEM product keys are functionally the same as retail versions.
Purchasing Microsoft Windows 10 Home Edition OEM license keys is a more cost-effective alternative. At Softvire, it is only $103.2, so you save over $35 by taking the OEM key.
When you’ve just purchased a new laptop and don’t plan to upgrade anytime soon, OEM is a nice choice. Our previous blog mentioned that the main difference between retail and OEM is that you can pass the license to another PC when you use the retail product key.
On the other hand, you must stick with the computer you unlocked with an OEM product key because you need to purchase another when you switch PCs.
Either way, purchasing OEM could be the better choice. Anyway, technology evolves so quickly that you’ll have to replace your PC in 4-5 years to meet the demands of the next generation. In addition, newly purchased laptops or desktops come pre-installed with active OEM Windows.
Free Microsoft Windows 10 Home Edition product keys
When you search for free Windows 10 keys, you will find tons of generated keys that claim to activate the software’s genuine copies. However, the keys will only work for a trial period of 30 days.
The keys are available for nearly all Windows 10, including Home, Professional, Education, and Enterprise.
Several users who have tested the keys say that they operate on all computers and versions of Windows 10. Scams, however, must be avoided at all costs. Although some people distribute these keys for free, others use them to generate an illicit income.
After releasing the most recent Windows operating system, free keys have circulated the internet, and Microsoft has taken strong measures to combat the illicit selling of individual product keys. Microsoft previously warned about the spread of fake license keys and provided some tips for detecting fake software:
Microsoft combats a new form of software piracy by blocking over 50,000 product keys. The 25-character code required to unlock Windows or Office was sold as a legitimate license.
In fact, they are often included in time-limited licenses for trial versions or software developers, volume licenses for educational institutions, or OEM licenses. They are sold illegally, normally without the permission of the real licensees.
So always do what is legal. If the retail price is too high for you, you can get OEM Microsoft Windows 10 Home Edition product keys from Softvire, which are always on sale!
Final Thoughts
In these changing and challenging times, most workers and students are staying at home. Therefore, you need software that can meet the demands of school, work, and businesses, anytime, anywhere.
Thankfully, Microsoft knows your needs. It provides the best productivity tools for every kind of family or business. You can easily tackle different scenarios and demands in the new normal.
So, buy your copy of Microsoft Windows 10 Home for 64-bit systems from Softvire Global online store at the best prices. Whether you’re getting the Microsoft Windows 10 Home download or retail box versions, our great prices, deals, and discounts will make sure you get bang for your buck.
Check our Softvire online software store for other Microsoft digital products we have on sale to make your purchase more worthwhile. Follow us on @SoftvireGlobal for the latest updates on our best deals and promos.
