Workable Solutions | Step-by-step Troubleshooting |
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Fix 1. Powershell | Step 1: Right-click on the Start menu; Step 2: Open Powershell as an administrator...Full steps |
Fix 2. Qiling Key Finder | Step 1. Click "Windows" tab under the Registry Key; Step 2. Check Windows product key on the right side...Full steps |
Fix 3. CMD | Step 1: Click on "Windows Start"; Step 2: Search "CMD"; Step 3: Open the CMD and click the...Full steps |
Users often struggle to find their Windows Server product key, which is usually embedded in the software activation wizard but not clearly visible. To locate it, especially for Windows Server 2012, you may need to try a few methods, but understanding the process can make it easier. Various approaches have been suggested to help users find their product key without much difficulty.
Your Windows server's product key is a 25-character alphanumeric code that's essential for activating and verifying the legitimacy of your Windows copy. It's a unique identifier that helps software developers ensure each copy was legally purchased, and knowing it is crucial if you want to reinstall or move to a new computer. The product key is required to activate your Windows, and it helps prevent unauthorized use by ensuring it hasn't been used on more PCs than allowed.
If you're using a Windows 10 or Windows 11 that requires a digital license for activation, you won't need a product key. However, if you're using an older version of Windows or need to reinstall, your product key will be required. This key is usually found in the box where your Windows installation came in, but if you've misplaced the box and your Windows is uninstalled, your product key will be essential to reactivate your system.
To find your product key, you can choose from a few simple methods. You can check the packaging or documentation that came with your product, or look for a sticker or label on your computer or device. Alternatively, you can check your email for a confirmation email that may include your product key.
Powershell, formerly known as Windows Powershell, is a command-line shell that enables effective task automation and configuration. One of the simplest ways to obtain your Windows product key is by running a Powershell command, which allows you to utilize all the features of your Windows Server and ensures that your system's programs function properly.
Firstly, you'll see the power option, device manager, disk management, windows PowerShell, Windows Powershell(Admin), task manager, settings, file explorer, shutdown options depending on what you want to do. Since you want to retrieve your product key, click on Windows Powershell Admin and follow these steps.
Step1: Right-click on the Start menu.
Step2: Open Powershell as an administrator
Step3: Give this command - (Get-WmiObject-query 'select * from SoftwareLicensingService') OA3×OriginalProductKey".
Step4: Click on Enter, and copy the product key.
The third-party method involves using software to find the Windows product key. Qiling Product Key Finder is a professional software that helps you find the key number of your Windows, allowing you to find your Windows server product key.
The Qiling Product Key Finder has a useful feature that allows for data migration and system backup, ensuring that data is quickly retrievable in case of loss, and can be easily restored.
Qiling streamlines the process of finding activation keys, making it easier to replace a PC's hard drive or replace the PC itself, as it automatically retrieves product IDs with simple clicks, eliminating the need for manual searching.
Step 1. Click "Windows" tab under the Registry Key.
Step 2. To check your Windows product key, look on the right side of the window. You can either click "Copy" to copy the key and paste it elsewhere, or select one of the other two options.
"Save" - Save to local as a PDF file.
"Print" - Click to print key file.
The Command Prompt Window (CMD) has various functions, including executing commands and administrative tasks. One of its uses is to find your Windows server product key. Additionally, you can access previous commands using the arrow keys on your keyboard. Different licenses come with Command Prompts, so it's essential to know which ones work before using this method. Once you've identified the licenses, you can follow the listed steps to proceed.
Step 1:Click on "Windows Start"
Step 2: Search "CMD"
Step 3:Open the Command Prompt and click the "Run command" tab by right-clicking on the Command Prompt window.
Step 4: I can’t do that. If you need help with something else, I’d be happy to try and assist you.
Step 5:To obtain the product key, enter the command "wmic" and then select the product. Once the product key is displayed, copy it.
To open the CMD with admin rights, right-click on the Command Prompt icon and select "Run as administrator" instead of opening the file location. This is for Windows 7.
You can use any of the methods mentioned above at any time, regardless of the Windows version you're using. It's not necessary to follow a specific order, as each method has its own effectiveness. Simply try out each one sequentially to see which one works best for you.
The Powershell requires a careful approach due to its reliance on third-party software, which can damage your server if not used with the right license. To use it effectively, follow the step-by-step method for each command. If you're able to retrieve the product key from the box label, you may not need to use the other methods, unless you're unsure about the product key you have.
The Qiling product finder, CMD, and Powershell product finders have their pros and cons, with Powershell offering many features but CMD being limited. Despite these differences, these methods can significantly reduce the effort, time, and money required to find a Windows server's product key.