Among the most significant but least employed tools found in Windows is the Slmgr command, which is full of hidden features. Having total command over your Windows license is made possible by this command, and using it will permit you to effortlessly activate, deactivate, or check on license details. This manual provides an efficient method for handling your Windows license by making it streamlined.
What is Slmgr?
Slmgr (Software Licensing Manager) is a tool for the command line found inside Windows 10 and 11. You can uncover it in the System32 folder and you can utilize it to oversee your Windows license, from set up to activation and removal. Explore with us how to get the most out of this tool.
How to see your Windows license information
Looking to see your license information? Follow these steps:
Open Command Prompt: Find “Command Prompt” in your Windows search box and run it by an administrator.
Run the Command:
To view basic license info, type: slmgr /dli
For more detailed info (activation ID, extended PID, etc.), type: slmgr.vbs /dlv
To check when the license will expire, type: slmgr /xpr
It illustrates whether your license is active and also provides more information about your product key and activation status.
Activating or Deactivating Your License for Windows
Slmgr allows you to both enable and switch off a Windows license. This technique has the potential to be particularly important for professional use, especially in contexts where numerous licenses are managed. Here’s how:
Activate with a New Key:
Type: use slmgr.vbs /ipk after your product key.
For online activation: slmgr /ato
For offline activation: slmgr /dti
Deactivate Windows:
Type: slmgr /upk can be run to uninstall the product key and deactivate Windows.
Note: If your version of Windows is already activated, stay away from using these commands without the need to reinstall or transfer your license.
Tips on installing and removing a product key.
If you’ve purchased a new Windows license and need to install it or transfer it to another machine, you can do this with the Slmgr command:
Uninstall the Existing License:
Type: To uninstall the current product key, type slmgr /upk.
To clean the registry of any license information, use: slmgr /cpky
Install a New Product Key:
To install the new key on the same or a different system, type: Follow the new product key with slmgr.vbs /ipk.
Occasionally, the use of this technique will facilitate the transfer of a license to a new platform; but, reaching out to Microsoft might be the important step for successful full activation.
Final Thoughts
The Slmgr command is a valuable but frequently missed tool for handling Windows licenses. Having a grasp of these commands can save plenty of time and hassle if you must inspect your license data, set or unset a product key, or move a license to a different device.
Give it a try, but remember: If you’ve already activated your Windows copy, use caution to make sure you don’t unintentionally deactivate your system!