List of default Windows keys from Microsoft

Microsoft's default key for Windows 10 (default key or generic key) will allow users to install any version of Windows 10 but will not activate Windows.

Using the default key will be useful if you want to install a certain version of Windows 10 or check the operation on a PC or virtual machine, or simply if you currently do not have a product key and will activate it later. Windows later.

The article below will provide a list of RTM (retail) and KMS keys (default) for all versions of Windows 10. This is a guide to setting up Microsoft's KMS client. https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/get-started/kmsclientkeys

Is Windows generic product key legal?

Yes, there is nothing wrong with using a generic product key to install Windows on your computer. However, doing so comes with some significant limitations.

Most notably, a generic key does not provide usage rights. Instead, they are just designed to help you install Windows. Within 30 to 90 days (depending on the key), the generic key will expire and you will need a full retail key.

In theory, Microsoft will never let you activate Windows with a generic product key. If you try to activate Windows with a generic product key, you will see the following message on the screen:

We can't activate Windows on this device because you don't have a valid digital license or product key. If you think you do have a valid license or key, see Troubleshoot below. (0x803f7001)
(We can't activate Windows on this device because you don't have a valid digital license or product key. If you think you have a valid license or key, see the “Troubleshooting” section below. (0x803f7001))

Even if you could somehow bypass Microsoft's control features, you would still be in violation of the End-User License Agreement (EULA) and could be subject to prosecution.

Why use generic product key on Windows 10?

It's probably best to think of a generic product key like a free trial for a piece of software. You have access to all the features and can test and evaluate it, but you know that you will need to spend some money at some point to maintain access.

They are ideal for people who are building systems or who want to run Windows in a virtual environment.

How to upgrade generic product key

If you used a generic product key to install Windows, you can easily replace it with the full retail version and thus get a legal copy of Windows without removing and reinstalling the operating system. yours.

Note: Before following these steps, you first need to purchase the retail version of the Windows product key. You can buy them directly from the Microsoft online store. Some third-party sellers may also have legitimate keys available, but there is no guarantee they will work.

When you're ready, open the Settings app and go to it Update and security > Activation > Upgrade your edition of Windows > Change product key.

A new box will appear on the screen and you will be prompted to enter the retail key you just purchased. If your key is legitimate, the activation process will begin. This process can take from a few seconds to a few hours, depending on how busy Microsoft servers are.

Key applies to Windows Server (LTSC versions)

Windows Server 2022

Windows Server 2019

Windows Server 2016

Key applies to Windows Server Semi-Annual Channel, Windows 10 and Windows 11

Windows Server 20H2, 2004, 1909, 1903 and 1809

Windows 11 and Windows 10 (Semi-Annual Channel)

Key applies to Windows 10 (LTSC/LTSB)

Windows 10 LTSC 2021 and 2019

Windows 10 LTSB 2016

Windows 10 LTSB 2015

Key applies to older versions of Windows Server

Windows Server v1803

Windows Server, v1709

Windows Server 2012 R2

Windows Server 2012

Windows Server 2008 R2

Windows Server 2008

Key applies to older versions of Windows

Windows 8.1

Windows 8

Windows 7

Windows Vista

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