Type slmgr.vbs /ipk YOUR-PRODUCT-KEY-HERE and press (replace the placeholder with your actual key).
Swipe in from the right edge of the screen (or press Windows + C ) to open the . Select Settings > Change PC settings . Click Activate Windows . windows-8-1-product-key-with-activation-guide-32bit-64bit
: Ensure you are connected to the web for "Method 1" to work instantly. Type slmgr
If the settings menu fails, you can force activation using the Command Prompt: Windows 8.1 Home
: This usually happens if you are using an "Upgrade" key on a drive that doesn't have a previous version of Windows installed.
: Ensure your key matches your specific edition (e.g., Windows 8.1 Home, Pro, or Enterprise).