How to Tell if Your Windows Is Genuine (The Definitive Guide 2025)

Many people believe that if Windows appears as activated, then it is genuine. But that isn’t always true. In this guide, you’ll learn how to verify if your Windows is truly genuine.

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1. Check activation in settings

The simplest way to check if Windows is activated is to access the system settings.

Configurações → Sistema → Ativação

2. Check via Command Prompt

You can also check the license status using Windows commands.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type:

slmgr /xpr

This command shows whether Windows is permanently activated or if the license has an expiration date.

3. Check license details

To view complete license information, run the command:

slmgr /dlv

It will display details such as license type and activation status.

• Retail → original license purchased separately

• OEM → license that came with the computer

• Volume/KMS → corporate activation

4. Check the license label (OEM)

Computers sold by manufacturers usually have a pre-installed OEM license tied to the device’s hardware.

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Common issues

“Activate Windows” message

This means that Windows is not activated or the license has expired.

License with an expiration date

If the slmgr command shows an expiration date, it is likely a temporary activation.

Activation error

Make sure the key you entered matches the version of Windows installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Windows is genuine?

Check the status in Settings → System → Activation or run the slmgr /xpr command.

Does an activated Windows mean it’s genuine?

Not always. Some activations may be temporary or performed using unofficial tools.

Which command checks the Windows license?

The most commonly used commands are slmgr /xpr and slmgr /dlv.