I can’t activate Windows

Windows automatically activates when you connect to the Internet.

If Windows cannot activate for some reason, you will see an Activate Windows page in PC Settings.

1. Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, and then tap or click Settings.
   (If you're using a mouse, point to the upper-right corner of the screen, move the mouse pointer down, and then click Settings.)
2. Tap or click Change PC Settings.
3. Tap or click Activate Windows, and then tap or click Activate.

Tip The Activate Windows page in PC Settings only appears if there is an activation problem.

Note Once Windows activates successfully, you will not see Activate Windows in the PC Settings.

Solving activation problems

The Activate Windows screen will display a message indicating why activation has failed and different options for trying to solve the problem.

From the Activate Windows screen, choose from the available options:

• Surface must have an Internet connection to activate successfully. If Surface is not connected to the Internet, connect to a wireless network.
• If there’s a button labeled Contact customer support for help, tap the button to get in touch with activation support from Microsoft.
• If the on-screen instructions suggest that you contact your manufacturer, or prompts for a new product key, contact a Surface Answer Tech.

What happens while Surface is not activated?

Until Surface is activated, options for personalizing the lock screen, start screen, and account picture will be limited and Surface will remind you to activate.