Windows 8.1: Read out key - how to get the info

When Windows 10 was released, it was possible to use your Windows 8 key to activate Windows 10. Usually, you don't always have the key for the operating system handy. If this is the case, you have the possibility to read out the key of your Windows 8.1 version afterwards.

How to read out your Windows 8.1 key

If you want to reinstall Windows 8.1, then you need a product key. However, you do not need a new key for this. If you do not have the key of your currently installed version handy, then you can read it. You usually do not need the product key if you only reset your Windows or format the hard disks. If you still want to find out the key, then you can read it out.

1. The product key of Windows 8.1 can be read out via various free tools. For example, you can use the free program ShowKeyPlus.
2. Download the software and then launch the appropriate version of the program. Make sure, if you have a 64-bit version, that you use the appropriate file "ShowKeyPlus_x64.exe".
3. Afterwards, a window opens with various information.
4. Here, the product name, version, ID and finally your product key are displayed. The entry has the designation "Installed Key". Auch der Eintrag „OEM Key“ kann interessant sein, da es sich hierbei um den Windows-Schlüssel handelt, der wiederum im BIOS Ihres Computers gespeichert ist.