There are many options and parameters within Windows that are completely unknown to most users. Today we are going to teach you how to use the software license management tool, well, specifically its version using the “Slmgr” command. A really very powerful command that allows us to do a huge amount of things with our Windows license.
Most users barely scratch the surface of Windows’ brutality of options and possibilities. Microsoft’s operating system is packed with “secret” and highly unknown features that allow us to explore unimaginable things.
Obviously, this is because many users make “superficial” use of the operating system. They are not interested in knowing all the options and possibilities, since they consider that they do not need them. But Slmgr is a function available in Windows 10 and 11 that you should know about and that you should also use.
Slmgr, take control of your Windows license
First of all, you should know that this command is responsible for Windows licenses. Specifically, it allows us to install, uninstall, activate, view or extend the Windows license.
The Slmgr function is located inside the System32 folder, so it cannot be used in any way. In order to use this function we must run the “Command Prompt in managed mode”. Let’s see the different options step by step.
View Windows License
We will start by looking at the type of science we have on our computer. It will indicate the type of science, part of the product key and whether it is active or not. To do this, follow these steps:
- Type “Command Prompt” in the Windows search box and run it as administrator. Otherwise it won’t work.
- Once it opens, type the command: slmgr /dli
- For more detailed information with the activation ID, extended PID and other information, add the command: slmgr.vbs /dlv
- If you want to see when the license will expire, add this command: slmgr /xpr
Normally, as in our case, it will tell you that the license is permanently activated. If you don’t have a license, it will tell you that there is no license, nothing more.
Activate or deactivate Windows license
A curious function of this command is not to activate a license, but to deactivate it. This is not common and is more focused on professional environments than on user level. In addition, it allows you to activate a license in different ways, such as:
- Type “Command Prompt” in the Windows search box and run it as administrator. Otherwise it won’t work.
- Activate Windows OS with a new key: slmgr.vbs /ipk
- For online activation, add this code: slmgr /ato
- If you want to enable an offline copy, add this code: slmgr /dti
- You can also use it to activate the activation ID: slmgr /atp
You can obtain the activation ID by calling Microsoft. - Also very interesting is the option to disable Windows: slmgr /upk
If you already have an activated copy of Windows, we do not recommend using any of these commands. They are only intended in case you have an unactivated version and want to add a key. Also, the last one will delete the license and you will have to enter a valid license again.
Install and uninstall product key
Maybe you have a new license and you want to add it, in order to activate the operating system. Windows keys are usually associated with hardware. You have the option to transfer the key to a new system in certain cases, although sometimes it requires contacting Microsoft. You can skip the process (sometimes) by doing this:
- Type “Command Prompt” in the Windows search box and run it as administrator. Otherwise it won’t work.
- Uninstall Windows License: slmgr /upk
- Delete the registry entry associated with the license: slmgr /cpky
- Activate Windows key on another system: slmgr.vbs /ipk
This trick sometimes works to transfer licenses from one system to another, but not always. If it works, you get that, but it’s best to keep in mind that this “trick” won’t work.
