Many are looking for the serial number of Windows 11, 10, 8.1, ... or even MS Server 2019, ...!
1.) ... The Windows serial number is actually called the product key!
2.) ... What is it about the very cheap product keys on the Internet?
3.) ... Do other operating systems also have product keys like Windows does?
1.) The Windows serial number is actually called the product key!
However, this is usually no longer available on the device or it is an OEM version. The serial number is actually called the product key and is required to activate Windows 11/10 this happens once during installation or if necessary if you want to enter / use a new product key. Even without hacking knowledge you can read out the serial number / product key on Windows!
All Windows versions have a worldwide unique key with which they can be activated. The so-called product key, formerly known as the CD key, is usually on the original packaging and you should keep it in a safe place. Because if Windows 10 or Windows 11 needs to be reinstalled or, for example, the MS Office software, unless it is a shared MS Office 365 , you need the key.
PS: Please do not confuse with the ►► version number or the build!
| (Image-1) The Windows serial number on Windows All OS! |
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2.) What is it about the very cheap product keys on the Internet?
The very cheap product keys for Windows or other software that are offered on the Internet are often not legal or trustworthy. There are several reasons why these keys are so cheap:1. Gray Market:
Many of these cheap keys come from the so-called “gray market”. This means that they were obtained through questionable means, such as selling volume licenses to unauthorized resellers or stealing keys.
2. Stolen or Counterfeit Keys:
Some of these keys are stolen or counterfeit. This can result in the key becoming invalid if the software manufacturer determines that it was obtained illegally. This may cause the software to stop working or the key to be disabled.
3. No support or updates:
If you buy a cheap product key, you will usually not receive any support or updates from the software manufacturer. This means you may encounter problems or be exposed to security vulnerabilities without receiving support.
4. Malware Risk:
Some websites that offer cheap product keys may also distribute malware or attempt to steal your personal information. Therefore, it is important to be careful when purchasing software keys and only buy from trusted sources.
Overall, it is advisable to be careful when purchasing software keys and stick to official and authorized distribution channels to ensure that you get a legitimate and fully functional copy of the software.
3.) Do other operating systems also have product keys like Windows does?
Yes, other operating systems also have licensing and activation mechanisms that work similarly to the Windows product key. Here are some examples:
1. macOS:
macOS, Apple's operating system for Mac computers, also uses product keys or license keys for activation. These keys are linked to the user's Apple ID account and are usually activated automatically during the setup process.
2. Linux:
Linux, an open source operating system, typically does not require product keys for installation or activation. However, there are some Linux distributions that offer commercial versions or enterprise support that may require special licensing.
3. Android:
Android, Google's mobile operating system, typically does not require product keys for installation or activation. Instead, activation usually occurs automatically during the setup process by linking the device to a Google account.
4. iOS:
iOS, Apple's operating system for iPhones, iPads and iPods, also does not require product keys for installation or activation. Activation usually occurs automatically during the setup process by linking the device to an Apple ID.
Although not all operating systems such as Windows use product keys, there are still licensing and activation mechanisms in place to ensure that the software is properly licensed and used legally.
