An Easy Guide to Check if Your Windows 10 is Real or Fake
Do you have Windows 10 but aren't sure if it's the real deal? Don't take it lightly! A pirated copy of Windows is dangerous. It can expose you to viruses, and you'll miss out on important security updates from Microsoft.
But don't worry, checking it is super easy, and you don't need to be a computer expert. Let's follow these simple steps below!
1. The Easiest Method: Check Through Settings
This is the fastest way to see your Windows status. It only takes a few seconds.
- Open the Start Menu, then click the gear icon (Settings).
- Choose the Update & Security menu.
- On the left-hand menu, click Activation.
Now, look at the description:
- ✅ If it's Genuine: You will see a message like "Windows is activated with a digital license". This means your Windows is safe and real.
- ❌ If it's Pirated/Has a Problem: It might say "Windows is not activated" or show an error code.
2. The Quick CMD Trick: Check for Permanent Activation
CMD is a built-in "command box" in Windows. This method is very accurate.
- In the Start Menu search bar, type cmd.
- Right-click on Command Prompt, then choose "Run as administrator".
- In the window that pops up, type this command and press Enter:
slmgr /xpr
Pay attention to the message that appears:
- ✅ If it's Genuine: The message will say "The machine is permanently activated". This means your Windows is active forever.
- ❌ If it's Pirated: It will usually show an expiration date (for example, "...will expire on..."). This is a classic sign of an illegal activator.
3. The Most Accurate Way: Uncover Your License Type with CMD!
This is the best way to be certain if your license is genuine or not.
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator again (same way as above).
- Type the command below, then press Enter:
slmgr /dli
Focus on the "Description" or "LICENSE NAME" line:
- ✅ Genuine License (You're Safe): If you see the word "RETAIL" or "OEM". These are official licenses sold to the public or pre-installed on new laptops.
- ❌ DANGER SIGN (Most Likely Pirated): If you see the words "VOLUME_KMSCLIENT" or "VOLUME". This type of license is meant for big companies, not for personal laptops. If you see this on your personal computer, it's almost 100% from an illegal activator tool.
4. The Old-School Way: Check for a Sticker on Your Laptop
If you bought a new laptop that already had Windows on it, there is usually a holographic Windows sticker on the bottom or side of the laptop. This sticker is called a Certificate of Authenticity (COA), and it's a sign that your Windows came from the factory (and is genuine).
5. The Clearest Sign: Can It Update?
A genuine copy of Windows can always receive updates from Microsoft without any issues. Just try going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. If the update process always fails, or if you have intentionally disabled it, it might be because your Windows is not genuine.
Quick Summary
Having a genuine copy of Windows is very important for your data's security and for your laptop to run smoothly. So, take a moment to check it using the methods above. If you find out it's a pirated copy, it's best to buy an official license!