What Happens If You Don’t Activate Windows?

radhe622524
May 12
2 min read

If you've ever installed Windows 10 or Windows 11 on a computer without having to enter a product key, then you've probably noticed that annoying "Activate Windows" watermark in the bottom left corner of your screen. What if you don't activate it? Is it bad? Can you still use your computer?

Is it Illegal to use Windows without Activation

Technically speaking, yes—you can install Windows without activation, and Microsoft actually does allow you to install it without a license key. But you're operating in limited situations, and you don't have full access to the software.

What are the limitations?

1. Permanent Watermark

You will notice a semi-transparent message in the bottom right corner stating:

"Activate Windows. To activate Windows, go to Settings."

It's always in view—while working, viewing videos, even capturing screenshots.

2. No Personalization Options

A significant drawback: you can't control what your system appears as.

You can't

Change your background.
Change themes
Lock screen or taskbar customize

Even simple visual preferences are disabled until you turn them on.

3. Repeating Messages

You will get incessant pop-up reminders and notifications from Windows that will prompt you to activate. It is frustrating when you are busy concentrating.

4. Features Curtailed Over Time

While basic functionalities like web browsing and Office usage are still operational, unactivated Windows can:

Miss out on essential feature enhancements.
Block particular security patches or improvements
Experience periodic system instability

5. No Official Support

You can't call Microsoft Support to request help if something isn't functioning as it should. Your copy is now unlicensed, and you can't anticipate customer support or warranty.