This error can be frustrating, especially if you need to print something urgently. But don’t worry - there are several ways to fix it. Some fixes are simple, like running a troubleshooter or restarting a service. Others involve changing system settings or updating drivers. To make things easier for you, we'll list down steps for each method!

How to fix the 0x00000709 error in Windows 11

If the error is not going away on its own, then follow the methods mentioned below.

By now you should have everything you need to fix this error, but for more Windows 11 tips and tricks, be sure to check out our other guides.

Thankfully, Windows 11 gives you several ways to disable widgets. You can simply hide the icon from the taskbar, stop the widget service from running in the background, or even block widgets completely using tools like Group Policy or the Registry Editor. To help you turn them off, we'll go over each method in detail.

How to turn off widgets in Windows 11

Here are some methods that can help you disable widgets in Windows 11.

So there you have it, everything you need to get rid of your widgets on Windows 11. For tips and tricks to help you master Windows 11, be sure to check out our other guides below:

The good news is that there are easy ways to open and extract RAR files in Windows 11. You can use built-in tools like File Explorer if your system is up to date. You can also use popular apps like WinRAR or other third-party tools. To help you out, we'll go over each method step-by-step!

Methods to open RAR files in Windows 11

Here are the methods you can follow to quickly open RAR files in Windows 11.

So there you have it, everything you need to know about how to extract and open RAR files. If you're interested in mastering Windows 11 with more tips and tricks be sure to check our other guides below:

Thankfully, Windows 11 offers plenty of ways to clear the clipboard history within minutes. So if you're currently confused about how you can remove everything from the history, we've got you covered right here with several methods.

How to clear clipboard history in Windows 11

Here are a handful of methods that can help you quickly clear the clipboard history.

Here's a quick video explaining the first method:

There are a few simple ways to do this. You can use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge to create a Gmail shortcut automatically. Or, if you prefer, you can make the shortcut manually. In this guide, we’ll take you through each method step by step.

How to pin Gmail to taskbar in Windows 11

Here are some quick methods that can help you pin Gmail to taskbar in Windows 11.

If you're currently in the same boat, don't worry, as we're here to help. We'll walk you through several methods that will help you recover your important deleted Sticky Notes in no time!

How to recover deleted sticky notes in Windows 11

Here are some methods that can help you quickly recover deleted sticky notes in Windows 11.

Here's a quick video of the first method:

However, even though the process is pretty simple, some users can still get confused with it, especially if they don't know where to go. This is where we come in. We'll walk you through a handful of methods that will help you change the administrator in no time!

How to change the administrator in Windows 11

Here are a few methods that can help you quickly assign administrative rights to another account in Windows 11.

Here's a quick video that walks you through the above method:

Why can't I change the administrator in Windows 11?

If you can't see the option to change the administrator in Windows 11, it could be because you're not logged in with an administrator account. Only admins have the right to make these changes. Also, if you're using a work or school PC, some settings may be locked by your company or school, including the option to change the administrator.

If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11, or you’re thinking about it, one thing you will need to do is to activate it. Once you activate Windows 11, you’ll get full and unfettered access to everything the OS has to offer. So in this article we’ll tell you all you need to know about your Windows 11 activation key, some potential ways you can do this for less money (perhaps even for free if you're lucky), and put you in the right direction for offers too.

Why activate Windows 11?

Why not? If you’re wondering why you should activate Windows 11 well the short answer is you get full access to the features it offers and full access to updates. The longer answer is two-fold. While you certainly do get access to features by using your Windows 11 activation key, if you don’t activate you may only get access to critical updates to Windows. So you’ll not only miss out on features in Windows, but you’ll miss out on some new additions too.

When we talk about features being restricted, what we’re really focused on is personalization. So unless you’re happy with a Windows watermark on your desktop, a constant ‘Activate Windows’ notification and no personalization, then activating makes sense. From Microsoft’s perspective, a Windows 11 activation means that the user has a genuine copy and that system can get everything intended for it.

Today's best Windows 11 activation key deals

The below are our picks for the best Windows 11 activation key deals. So if you need to activate your copy of Windows, check these out so you can get Windows at its best! 

Price is important for getting a Windows 11 activation key - so is trust and user satisfaction. This is also true for a Windows 11 Pro activation key. While there are a lot of sellers available, you’ll want to find a trustworthy seller, providing legitimate activation keys and with customer support too. And we’ve got two options for you: 

Mr Key Shop is a top-rated seller, offering official Windows 11 activation keys and keys for other Microsoft software too. At Mr Key Shop you can get a cheap Windows 11 key, or a Windows 10 activation key. You can also pick up an Office 2021 Key as well as Microsoft Office for Mac with the latest features and tools for productivity. Mr Key Shop also offers licenses for the best antivirus to help your system stay safe, licenses for VPN apps, and for the best backup software too. 

Keycense is the second store we’d suggest checking out for a Windows 11 license key or - saving even more - a Windows 10 Pro key. This trusted seller can also provide you with an Office 2021 product key or cheaper versions like an Office 2016 key, and has its own selection of the best cheap antivirus tools. You can also get licences for some of the best VPN tools, as well as activation keys for games and even gift cards.

Prerequisites for Windows 11 activation

To activate Windows 11 you will need to tick off the following. First, you need to meet the minimum system requirements, which are: 

Once you are sure your system has these, you simply need a stable Internet connection and a genuine copy of Windows 11 to activate!

How to activate Windows 11 legally for less money - options

We've already written about how to download Microsoft Office for less, rather than buying a Microsoft Office 2021 lifetime license or a Microsoft 365 subscription. How can you activate Windows 11 legally for less or even for free?

Get a valid licence from a decommissioned PC

In some circumstances you may be able to use a decommissioned PC’s licence key as your Windows 11 activation key. Should you have an old system you want to move it over from, you will first need to uninstall and deactivate Windows on the older system. However you can only do this if the version is a full retail version - not an ‘OEM’ (original equipment manufacturer’ version that came installed on your PC. 

If it is a retail version of Windows 11, you can activate Windows 11 free on your new PC by first ensuring that in your online Microsoft account you have ‘unlinked’ that device in the ‘Your Devices’ area. 

Get Windows 11 with Windows 11 Education

Only relevant for anyone who is a student or a teaching professional is that it is possible to get Windows 11 ‘free’ with a Windows 11 Education activation license. This license is only available through educational institutions and intended for use with educational activities. If you are not a student or teacher, this is not a legitimate way to get Windows 11 activated. 

Buy a Windows 10 product key to activate Windows 11

Although you can buy a Windows 11 license there is no reason you cannot buy a Windows 10 license and then upgrade to Windows 11 for free. This can be done fairly easily by following Windows’ own Windows Updates prompts - once Windows 10 is installed and activated. 

It does take a little bit more work to get your system up and running on Windows 11, but it is a legitimate way to activate Windows 11. Here’s how you can do it, step-by-step.

How to upgrade to Windows 11

Windows 10 users can upgrade to and activate Windows 11 for free. This Windows 11 activation will then move your system to the newer version of Windows so you can enjoy all its features. Here’s how. 

Check for compatibility

Before you begin, you will need to check for compatibility to ensure that your Windows 11 free activation can go ahead as planned. Many systems can run Windows 11, but the operating system may not be usable for older PCs. The most common issues are:

Check your PC status by going to Start > PC Health Check and selecting the ‘Check now’ button below ‘Introducing Windows 11’. If your system passes the check you can upgrade to Windows 11 for free. 

Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security. You should see that Windows 11 is waiting as an update - if not select ‘check for updates’. It will be installed as an update, and take a little while to set up - including restarts. 

How to activate Windows 11 with the product key

To activate Windows 11 with the activation key, go to Start  > Settings  > Update & Security  > Activation  > Update product key > Change product key. Then just enter the key to activate Windows 11 for free. 

Do not use cmd, activator or batch file to activate Windows 11

You may come across methods of activating Windows 11 using CMD (command prompt), a batch file or other method. These are best avoided, as they can cause irreversible issues further down the line if you don’t know exactly what you are doing. 

More importantly, there’s no need to! Activating Windows 11 for free inside Windows is safe and easy to do. So why would you do anything else?

In this blog, we'll explore the workarounds and steps to install Windows 11, removing the Microsoft account requirement, and ensuring you have the desktop experience you desire. Whether you're using a Windows 11 ISO or other tools like Rufus, we'll guide you through the process without the need for an online Microsoft account.

How to run Windows 11 with a local account?

Running Windows 11 without a Microsoft account may feel like a big task, but it is not. It is an easy process with simple steps. Here, we have mentioned the step-by-step approach to setting up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account (or with a local account).

These steps will help you set up Windows 11 using a local account. This is preferred and recommended if you plan to sell your PC, lend it to a friend, or donate.

What are the benefits of running Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?

Running Windows 11 without a Microsoft account offers several advantages, particularly for those who prioritize privacy or want more control over their user experience.

Below are some key benefits:

Enhanced control over profile and username

Setting up Windows 11 with a local account allows you to have full control over your profile. Want to set your username as your favorite anime character? You can do that without any restrictions!

Privacy considerations

If privacy is a top priority for you, opting for a local account is the way to go. You can bypass Microsoft account requirements and adjust your privacy settings to suit your preferences.

Offline accessibility

No stable internet connection? No problem!

With a local account, you can work on your computer or laptop without needing an internet connection. This is an ideal option if you want to set up a virtual machine or if you don't have an Ethernet cable handy.

Reduced notifications and syncing

If you prefer not to be bothered by Microsoft services, setting up Windows 11 with a local account can prevent notifications for app purchases and device settings syncing from appearing. This can create a more focused and less cluttered user experience.

Simplified installation process

Using a local account can simplify the installation process. You can create a bootable USB flash drive with the installation media, partition your drive as required, and follow the command prompts to set up Windows 11. This can be particularly useful for the Home Edition or if you need to bypass Windows requirements set by the manufacturer.

Box experience customization

With a local account, you can tailor the out-of-box experience (OOBE) to your liking. Whether you want to press shift to access specific features or customize account settings, a local account provides the flexibility to make Windows 11 truly your own.

Conclusion

Understanding how to set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account offers flexibility and control over your computing experience. While Microsoft recommends using an account for a seamless experience, especially if you use multiple devices or Microsoft services, it's not a requirement.

For those who prioritize privacy or prefer a more limited setup, a local account is a viable option. Whether you're performing a clean installation, using a bootable USB drive, or adjusting the keyboard layout, the choice to remove the requirement for a Microsoft account is yours.

This decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences, needs, and how you plan to use your Windows 11 system. If you're looking to download Windows 11 without the need for TPM or other specific info, following the command and steps outlined in this blog will guide you through the process.

FAQs

Can I use Cortana after I have set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?

You can still use Cortana and other features available on your device. Setting up Windows 11 with a Microsoft account enhances user experience. The features available on your device can still work even if you have set up Windows 11 using a local account. However, some features will require a Microsoft account, but most of them work seamlessly.

Are there any cons of using Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?

There are some cons to using Windows 11 without a Microsoft account. These include:

To hide the taskbar and its buttons or icons isn't too hard. Microsoft's options for users to customize their desktops just need a little bit of digging into Windows settings. So if your favorite apps are safely 'shortcutted' on your desktop, here's what you need to know to do away with your taskbar and the taskbar icons.

How To Hide The Windows 11 Taskbar - step-by-step

How do I fix Windows 11 taskbar not hiding?

If your taskbar is not hiding or showing odd behavior, you may need to restart File Explorer in task manager. To use the task manager: 

Alternatively, you can restart your PC using the start menu. Since you have hidden your taskbar, you can go to the bottom of the screen to trigger the taskbar and click the start menu for the regular power-off and restart options. Or you can use your keyboard start key.

Expert view

Knowing how to hide the Windows 11 taskbar is useful. However, hiding the taskbar will also hide the start menu button, which can make it a bit trickier to use a PC for some users. If you find that to be the case, turn the toggle back off.

The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is essentially the brains of your computer. While everything is else inside is vitally important for different things, the CPU controls pretty much all the different bits of your PC, from USB ports to your graphics card. While the Windows 11 system requirements merely detail a processor that's 1 GHz or faster with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit SOC, naturally a CPU that goes beyond this will get you even better performance.

On the whole, CPU support and performance are pretty much the same for both Intel and AMD at any price tier, even for different operating systems such as Windows 11 or Linux. So, you'll want to be looking at what's most cost-effective for what you'll be doing on your PC, whether that be gaming, productivity, or a mixed-performance workload. To that end, we’ve put together this in-depth guide that lists different processors, their details, and pros and cons to help you cut through the clutter and make an informed decision.

Products at a glance

How we picked

As we mentioned above, choosing the right CPU for Windows 11 isn't as simple as scrolling through the system requirements; you want to make sure you're getting a processor that's going to enhance operating system usage for your own needs. Of course, there's some crossover between traditional gaming or productivity and what you need for smooth Windows 11 usage, which means that many of the criteria we’d assign to CPU for straight gaming or mixed performance factors into the equation of choosing the right CPU for your OS plans.

However, that doesn't mean we can disregard system requirements entirely, and it's worth bearing in mind that actual supported processors include 8th-generation or newer CPUs from Intel Core, and from Team Red, AMD Ryzen 2000-series or newer. These are all CPUs that launched in late 2017 or early 2018 - roughly four years before the launch of Windows 11 itself - so older systems won't be able to run the latest Windows at all. Basically, you won't need to worry about getting the very best CPU for gaming, but overall keep your eyes out for decent clock speeds as well as core and thread counts, as this will allow the CPU to execute instructions more quickly, resulting in an even smoother running of Windows.

In the competitive CPU market dominated by AMD and Intel, we have curated a selection covering a wide range of performance levels from both manufacturers. Our emphasis is on processors we've personally tested and reviewed, prioritizing recommendations based on our hands-on experience and the popularity they enjoy in the market. However, you'll need to take a bit of initiative yourself research-wise too, as if there's a niche software you're going to be using on your PC, you might find that it runs better with either an AMD or Intel chipset.

Perusing everything the CPU market has to offer, we settled on four different CPUs that, in our estimation, offer the best experience out there for using alongside Windows 11. As always, we’ve steered clear of simply recommending the most powerful and pricey options and instead honed in on CPU models that suit different needs, including budget.

Our top picks

To no surprise, the CPU at the top of our list today is one of the finest from Intel's 13th gen - the Core i7-13700K. While Intel chips do come with a higher price tag, for overall mixed performance you can't find much of a better positioned pick than the 13700K. What's more, while the 13th-generation middle-of-the-pack CPU isn't quite an entry-level CPU, it can actually be affordable under the right circumstances.

Belonging to Intel’s 13th generation and featuring a hybrid architecture that combines performance cores and efficient cores, this CPU is engineered to adeptly handle the demands of high-resolution gaming alongside a range of demanding applications. Speaking of cores and threads, you have 16 and 24 respectively, which guarantee smooth multitasking and seamless gaming experiences across Windows 11. This makes it an ideal processor for users who not only aim for superior gaming performance surpassing 1080p, but mainly for those engaged in content creation and other intensive computational tasks.

Of course, our 13700K review was a testament to this too, and our benchmarks found it tests very well; especially when stacked up against the likes of the 7600X, or the 12600K. Basically, while it was found most proficient in multi-core scenarios, it was no slouch when it comes to single-core performances either. What's more, gaming across the likes of Cyberpunk was butter smooth and lag-free. If you want to know more about how we test CPUs, you can check out our PCGuide labs page, which details all the testing methodologies we use to make sure we get accurate and detailed results to be as informative as possible.

The Core i7-13700K is certainly a strong and capable CPU if you have gaming in mind, but where it truly excels is multi-core workloads.

All in all, the 13700K is a strong mid-ranger from Intel that will get you truly commendable price-to-performance ratios, as not only can it pull its weight for productivity, but it's really strong in gaming scenarios too. For any Windows 11 user, this processor is a great pick for good all-round usage.

Next up, we've not shied away from recommending one of Intel's very best offerings in the form of its flagship, the 14900K. Sometimes you just want the best of the best, we can’t blame you for that. As the strongest CPU from the newer Raptor Lake-R generation of Intel, the 14900K was built to endure hardcore processes, and thanks to a large amount of cores multi-tasking is the main activity you should perform on this CPU. There's no doubt that the likes of this CPU will future-proof you far beyond the likes of Windows 12.

As the strongest CPU from the newer Raptor Lake-R generation of Intel, the 14900K was built to endure hardcore processes

Jumping into the specs, it features 24 cores and 32 threads, with 8 cores designated as performance cores (P-cores) and 16 cores as efficient cores (E-cores). The P-cores have a base speed of 3.0 GHz and a boost of 5.8 GHz, while the E-cores have a base clock speed of 2.2 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz. The full ins and outs are highlighted in our 14900K review, but overall you're getting better thermal efficiency and slightly better performance across the board from the 13900K.

What does that mean for you? Well, the specs of the 14900K pretty much speak for themselves, and from them you'll get unparalleled performance for anything you choose in Windows 11. However, while this may make it sound revolutionary, it doesn’t really offer anything new over the 13900K/KS, with the same cores, threads, and integrated graphics. There’s no avoiding its 253W TDP, so new PC builders looking for a humble pic for using Windows 11 might find this CPU both demanding and somewhat overkill.

As we've mentioned there, there's one true gaming powerhouse dominating the CPU world at the moment, and that's the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. As opposed to being a mixed-performance pick for all-around Windows 11 usage, this is a dedicated gaming processor for building into a gaming-focused rig that uses Windows rather than Linux. Engineered by AMD, this CPU represents the pinnacle of the Ryzen 7000 series lineup, with its Zen 4 architecture, clock speeds, and 3D V-Cache technology.

The Ryzen 7 7800X3D boasts formidable processing prowess at its core, featuring an octa-core design capable of simultaneous execution of multiple threads with remarkable efficiency. Running at a base clock speed of 4.6 GHz and potentially reaching up to 5 GHz through dynamic overclocking, this CPU guarantees seamless and responsive gaming performance. Opting for a Zen 4 processor, especially the X3D model, brings several additional advantages. The Zen 4 architecture, with its sizable L2 cache, is finely tuned to minimize latency and maximize throughput, delivering a VR experience devoid of any lag and surpassing the performance of the Zen 3 generation.

Engineered by AMD, this CPU represents the pinnacle of the Ryzen 7000 series lineup, with its Zen 4 architecture, clock speeds, and 3D V-Cache technology.

Furthermore, its integrated 3D V-Cache technology accelerates data access speeds, ensuring swift retrieval of game assets. Additionally, the inclusion of PCIe 5.0 connectivity and DDR5 memory further enhances responsiveness and data transfers, making it an even more compelling choice. However, budget builders may struggle to reach the price point of the 7800X3D, which stands as more premium than our current top pick, the 13700K.

No one has said that Intel's 12th generation wasn't good enough for Windows 11 users, and to that end, we've included what we see as one of the highlights from the lineup, the Core i5-12400F. With a humble power draw of just 65W, everyday users and beginner builders will find this processor a competent and efficient choice for their rig.

Specs-wise, it's still not lacking. You've got 6 cores and 12 threads, a boost clock of 4.4 GHz, and 18 MB of L3 cache to see you through light workstation tasks such as using Microsoft Office Suite, and even light gaming too. For pairing with some of the best budget GPUs, you won't find a much more competent processor despite being a few years older. If the more expensive i5 "E" cores aren't something you need, this should certainly be a CPU to consider. E cores add heat and raise the TDP, which can be negative for someone who doesn't need them.

Price is another factor that makes the 12400F particularly attractive, as not only can it still pull its weight in modern gaming and light productivity, but it's priced just above $200 at MSRP - and, more often than not, it can be found at a discounted price than makes it even more affordable.

Do I need a good CPU for Windows 11?

As detailed by Windows, to install or upgrade to Windows 11 you need a processor that's 1 GHz or faster with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor. So technically, you can run Windows 11 on really entry-level or laptop CPUs, but the bare minimum is 8th-generation or newer CPUs from Intel Core or AMD Ryzen 2000-series or newer. You don't need top-end CPU for Windows 11, but of course with more money invested you get more performance, which will enable the OS to run even more smoothly.

A Windows 11 Pro key is what you need if you’re looking higher up on Microsoft’s OS tree than Windows 11 Home. That version of the operating system can be pricey though.

Because of that, this article will give you tips and information on how to get a Windows 11 Pro product key at a price well below MSRP.

Windows 11 Pro Key: how to save money

There are several things you can do to save money when you buy a Windows 11 Pro Key or any other software: price-check, compare and wait for discount events and special offers.

Each of these applies if you’re looking to buy Windows 11 Pro. But the main thing is this: you don’t need to buy from Microsoft directly.

Unlike a manufacturer of physical products, Microsoft has little incentive to offer a discount on its operating systems. Additionally, there’s very little in terms of competition, so prices don’t really need to drop too far.

In fact, if you check Microsoft’s site right now while trying to get a Windows 11 Pro key, you’ll see a standard price of $199.99. That’s well above what you can actually get it for, and not by a little either. With a bit of nous, you can purchase Windows 11 for around $135 less than that.

Windows 11 Pro Key: best offers

Where to buy a Windows 11 Product Key cheap

Where do you go buying a Windows 11 Product Key, if you’re not getting Windows 11 from Microsoft? A trusted and top-rated reseller is our suggestion.

Picking a reseller may feel tricky, but really what you want is one with a good track record, that is easily contactable, sells 100% genuine licenses, and is regularly used by other shoppers.

Mr Key Shop is one such option for buying Windows 11, particularly as it has a 4.9 out of 5-star rating and over 2.5K positive reviews on Trustpilot. The company also offers a Windows 11 Pro Key for just $64.99, which is the lowest price we can see right now for any well-regarded reseller.

The way to spend even less, still being sure of turning to a reliable retailer, is to grab the launch offers from Keycense, a retailer that is rapidly expanding thanks to the right mix of competitive prices and flawless service. 

Windows 11 price: is it a good time for a deal?

Having found the right Windows 11 price, is this also a good time to install it? Yes, it is. More than two years after its launch, Windows 11 is now a decidedly stable operating system. You’ve still got one year until the next version of Windows is expected, in 2025. Plus, Windows 11 support is due to be continued by Microsoft until October 2025.

The one caveat to buying Windows 11 now is that you could have taken advantage of Black Friday to get an even better deal. But don’t regret missing out, Black Friday deals are not the only offers you can find if you periodically check the suggested stores, where rates are continuously updated and may offer an even better price for a Windows 11 Pro Key at any time of the year, as for antivirus for Android, iOS, PC or Mac and many other software.

Mr Key Shop also sells Microsoft Office keys. So if you’re looking to buy an MS Office 2021 key or any other version of the suite – Office for Mac included – it could be that you can get fully set up for even less, unless you can get Microsoft Office for free. In addition to Windows and Office packages, you can find other Microsoft products on Mr Key Shop, such as Windows Server and SQL Server licenses, as well as antivirus software, VPNS, backup and recovery software. You’ll also find the subscription version of Microsoft 365 and single Office app licenses.

Additionally, Keycense’s launch offers are also available for Microsoft Office, Office Apps, and security software like antivirus and VPN apps; as well as for Windows operating systems and gaming gift cards and licenses.

How to upgrade to Windows 11 free

If your PC runs a legit instance of Windows 10 Pro, activated with a Windows 10 Pro Key, you are eligible for upgrading to Windows 11 Pro for free – if your device complies with the system requirements (we’re looking at you, TPM). Therefore, if you have a previous edition or a different version, you can purchase Windows 10 and then profit from the free upgrade, as long as Microsoft allows it, to make an even better deal.

How to download Windows 11

Downloading Windows 11 will depend on which option you have chosen: buying a full Windows 11 Pro license, or a Windows 11 Pro Upgrade key – to move from Windows 11 Home.

Either way, once you complete a purchase with shops like Mr Key Shop or Keycense, your product key will be delivered to your inbox, and you will receive everything required to download and install:

How to install Windows 11

Use the link and instructions to install Windows 11. Ensure you have all of your data backed up if you are upgrading or using a system with existing data on it.

The installation process can take some time, and the instructions provided with your license are best followed exactly: this will make the process very easy.

If you have any issues with installation, you can contact your reseller – both Mr Key Shop and Keycense offer free customer service to help you in getting set up.

How to activate Windows 11

Once downloaded and installed, you’ll need to activate your Windows 11 Pro Key.

Again, you will have received detailed instructions on how to do this with your purchase, along with a 25-character product key in this form:

PRODUCT KEY: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX

During your Windows 11 Pro installation, you’ll see a prompt to input your product key. You can do this to activate, or wait until after installation is finished.

If you choose to activate after installation, hit the Start button, and then navigate to: Settings  > System  > Activation  > Update product key > Change product key.

Windows 11 Pro vs Home: which one to choose?

You may well have already compared Windows 11 Pro vs Home, but it’s useful to have the differences in mind when shopping.

Two of the key differences are that Windows 11 Pro offers BitLocker device encryption and offers WIP (Windows Information Protection) for the prevention of data leaks on devices users may take to work.

You can find the full comparison of relevant features on Microsoft’s Windows 11 Home vs Windows 11 Pro page.

How To Activate Windows 11 Pro Without Product Key

Activating Windows 11 Pro without a product key is not possible, simply because software activation is what product keys are made for. Even KMS, legal or not, use activation codes to keep a software activated.

You can eventually activate the OS for free, using a Windows 11 Pro free activation key. This is what usually happens when you buy a new PC from a store - they will probably include the activation key in the final price.

Using an activated software is essential, especially when it comes to the operating system, to get the free periodic updates including new features and bug fixes.

To keep your operating system updated and protected, saving your money, you can get your Windows 11 Pro Key at a very low price from trusted retailers like those suggested above.

How to enter the BIOS in Windows 11 - from Windows

If you want to just restart the PC into the BIOS, you can go through the following for Windows 10 and 11:

See, not so bad! When you want to exit the BIOS, just find the Save & Exit settings to be prompted back into the regular Windows boot-up sequence.

We've been covering adjacent topics for Windows 11, so you can figure out if your CPU is compatible with Windows 11, and how to check if you have a TPM-enabled CPU in the BIOS.

Want to get into Windows 11 early with your current PC? We've got the guide for you to get through the loops into the Microsoft Insider's Program. If you don't want to commit the whole computer to it, but get an idea of what's coming in the Autumn, we also show you how to install it to a Virtual Machine. We even have a guide to get it up and running on a Raspberry Pi 4!

Luckily, there is a way to install Windows 11 on unsupported CPUs, so here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it. The first option gives you the ability to install it fresh onto any PC, and the other as an upgrade to a Windows PC already.

Install Windows 11 on an unsupported CPU with Rufus

Windows 11 on unsupported CPU registry edit

Final thoughts

Installing Windows 11 on an unsupported CPU isn't particularly hard, but if you're not confident or comfortable changing your registry, there are other options. These may include a new build and a new CPU for Windows 11 use.

Or, if you want to keep it a bit simpler and less precarious and don't want to mess around with the registry, Rufus is an equal method. This way, you can treat it like a normal Windows USB installer. Either method should let you enjoy the latest Microsoft operating system.

Xbox Game Bar, a feature installed as standard as part of Windows 11, allows you to capture in-game footage via an easy-to-navigate overlay. For those looking for desktop and game capture, NVIDIA GeForce Experience and AMD Radeon Software both have built-in screen record functionality that's both sufficiently robust for most users and intuitive to use.

Read on for a step-by-step guide to screen record on:

Summary

So there you have it, the three most straightforward ways to screen record on Windows 11, with at least one or two available on most PCs and laptops regardless of their specifications.

For those looking for more robust, dedicated screen record tools, we recommend investigating OBS, notably if live streaming is on the cards. Twitch integration and a vast array of options let you fine-tune pretty much every aspect of screen recording.

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, do let us know by dropping a message below. For those looking for more Windows 11 step-by-step guides, be sure to check our growing library of how-to articles here on PC Guide.

If you've installed Windows 11 and are ready to key in your unique string of numbers and letters that get you into Microsoft's good books but aren't sure where to start, you've come to the right place.

Under the alluring appeal of those unabashedly macOS-inspired curves, rejigged Start menu, and centered taskbar, Windows 11 retains much of the same functionality as its predecessors, something that extends to the activation process. It's a relatively straightforward process. Here's everything you need to know and a step-by-step guide to activating Windows 11 whether you are using a digital license or product key.

How To Activate Windows 11 With a Product Key

Step 1: Make sure you are connected to the internet as your PC needs to communicate with Microsoft to ensure the validity of your license before confirming activation.

Step 2: Click on the Search icon on the taskbar represented by a large magnifying glass.

Step 3: Type Activation Settings in the 'Type here to search' field.

Step 4: Click on the 'Best Match' Activation Settings result that pops up.

Step 5: In the Activation window that pops up, click on 'Change product key.'

Step 6: In the new window that appears, enter your full 25-character activation key.

Step 7:Click Next.

Step 8: Then, click Activate to complete the process.

How To Activate Windows 11 During Installation With a Product Key

Alternatively, you can also activate Windows 11 during the operating system installation process.

Step 1: Run through the installation wizard’s 'Gathering information' portion until you are prompted to provide a valid Windows product key.

Step 2: Enter your activation key in the provided field, double-checking that you haven't made any errors.

Step 3: Click Next.

Step 4: The installation Wizard will check whether the key is indeed valid. After this, continue through the installation process as usual.

How To Activate Windows With A Digital License

If you've purchased a digital license with your Microsoft account on the Windows Store, the activation process in Windows 11 is a little different. The license links to your Microsoft account, so you'll effectively need to associate that account with your PC.

Step 1: During installation, click on the 'I don't have a product key option' and continue the installation as usual.

Step 2: When launching Windows 11 for the first, you'll be prompted to sign in to your Microsoft account. Enter your email and password. Windows 11 will activate automatically.

If you skipped linking your Microsoft account, follow these steps.

Step 1: Click on the Search icon on the taskbar represented by a large magnifying glass.

Step 2: Type Activation Settings in the 'Type here to search' search field.

Step 3: Click on the 'Best Match' Activation Settings result that pops up.

Step 4: In the Activation window, click on Add an account.

Step 5: Enter your Microsoft account email and password, then click on Sign in. After a short wait, Windows 11 will activate.

What Happens If Windows 11 Isn't Activated?

Non-activated, Windows 11 remains a more or less fully functional operating system: you can use most apps, browse the internet, play games, and pretty much do everything you can with a legitimate, activated version.

There are, however, some significant limitations that make activation well worth the money.  Some key features are missing, including customization, Windows Defender, and Microsoft Office functionality, to name a few. And, there's an ever-present watermark nudging you to activate the operating system.

Additionally, un-activated Windows 11 excludes you from all the major Windows updates and improvements that not only enhance the experience but also remedy bugs and issues, and more importantly, grant access to security fixes to ward off viruses, malware, ransomware, and other potentially devastating threats.

Finally, there's no saying when Microsoft will opt to block or severely limit the functionality of un-activated copies of the operating system. In that sense, the peace of mind of an activated Window 11 is worth the cost alone in the long term.

Summary

As you can see, the process of activating Windows 11 is relatively painless whether you have a digital license or product key, and doing so grants you access to the very best of what the new operating system has to offer.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to drop us a line in the comments section below.

We also have many other Windows 11-related articles that answer the most common questions and queries about Microsoft's sleek new operating system, so do have a peek at those.

Do note that once removed, anyone can physically walk up to your PC and gain full access to all the files and private information stored there.

As such, we can only recommend this for desktop systems located permanently in a trusted, safe space such as a home office and not for laptops lugged around and used in public areas.

How To Remove Password From Windows 11

Note that these steps cover removing the password for a local account on Windows 11 and not a Microsoft Account.

Unfortunately, logging in with a Microsoft Account requires a password, and there is simply no way to circumvent this obligation, although you can, of course, amend the password if needed.

How To Remove Password From Windows 11 In Command Prompt

Another route to removing a Windows 11 password is by using Command Prompt (CMD).

However, the above method is arguably just as quick and easier to navigate for those uncomfortable with CMD.

How To Turn On Automatic Sign In On Windows 11

As above, Windows 11 prevents users from removing the password requirement when using a Microsoft Account, but there's a way to turn on automatic sign-in, thus sidestepping the need to enter the password every time you sign in.

The same steps work for local accounts, too.

Summary

These three ways to remove the sign-in password or at least turn on automatic sign-in on Windows 11 should set you up nicely for when a password isn't required. Once again, we can't recommend removing the password requirement, but understand that specific circumstances do warrant it.

Any questions or concerns? Don't hesitate to send us a message via the comments section below, and be sure to check out our other Windows 11 guides covering all the most important how-tos in the new operating system.