Obtain a Windows Product Key and Activate Windows

Background

Windows computers require a valid product key to properly function, obtain updates, and be customized.

All South Dakota Mines users can obtain Microsoft software and product keys from the Azure Development Tools portal.

Students must be actively enrolled in courses to log in to the Azure portal. Microsoft requires all users to be active students, staff, or faculty members.

How to get a Windows Product Key?

You will need to obtain a Windows product key from the Azure Development Tools Portal.

  1. Open a web browser and go to the Azure Portal.
     
  2. Sign in with your campus computer credentials.
     
  3. Accept the licensing terms.
     
  4. On the left menu, click the Software link.
     
  5. From the list of available software find and click Windows XX Education, version XXXX.
     
  6. in the new window that appears, click the "View Key" button.
     
  7. Copy and save this product key so you can easily access it later.

Activating Windows with a Product Key

New Windows installations require a valid product key which can be obtained as described above.

  1. Ensure your computer is connected to the network.
     
  2. Click the Action Center icon in the taskbar (near the system time in the lower-right corner of your screen).
     
  3. Click the “All Settings” button.
     
  4. Click the “Update & Security” icon.
     
  5. Select “Activation” on the left menu and click “Change Product Key”.
     
  6. Paste your Product Key from above in the text field and press Next.
     
  7. Your Windows XX install is now completely activated. Close all the system windows and enjoy your computer.
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