Windows 11 can only be activated by connecting to the internet (except for volume-license versions of Windows 11). Windows
11 cannot be activated over the phone.
If a system has a digital license that was injected into the system BIOS during the manufacturing process, Windows 11 uses
that key to activate Windows 11 on that specific system. Activation is automatic when connected to the internet. All HP systems
sold with Windows 11 include a digital license in the BIOS.
If the system does not have a digital license in the BIOS, a product key can be entered manually. Windows 11 uses that product
key to activate. Activation is automatic when connected to the internet, if the user has already typed in the product key.
Digital licenses and product keys are unique and can only be used to activate one system.
If the system cannot be connected to the internet and activated, the system is in the 'Deferred Activation' state. Windows
11 can be used normally while in Deferred Activation. No message is displayed on the desktop indicating that Windows is not
activated.
On rare occasions, it is possible to connect a system with a valid digital license or product key to the internet, but not
activate Windows. By connecting to the internet, Windows exits the Deferred Activation state and expects to be activated.
The system then displays a light grey message in the lower-right corner of the desktop stating that Windows is not activated.
Also, various personalization features are turned off. For example, the user cannot change the desktop background. The easiest
fix is to connect the system to the internet, ensure that it has access to Microsoft, and wait for the system to complete
the activation process.
If the system does not have a valid digital license or product key, Windows 11 cannot be activated on the system.
Windows 11 activation
Valid digital license or product key
|
Connected to the internet
|
Activation
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Automatic
|
Yes
|
No
|
Deferred Activation
Not activated, but fully functional
|
Yes
|
Yes, but not activated
|
Not activated
Not activated and message on desktop
Personalization features are blocked.
|
No
|
Yes
|
Not activated
Not activated and message on desktop
Personalization features are blocked.
|
No
|
No
|
Deferred Activation
Not activated, but fully functional
|