Hi, Everyone. ShowKeyPlus is a popular tool for Windows users who need to retrieve product keys. It benefits those who have lost their product key and need it for reinstallation or other purposes. One common question that arises is whether ShowKeyPlus displays the OEM key or the installed key. This article will explore the functionalities of ShowKeyPlus in detail, explaining what types of keys it can retrieve and how it distinguishes between OEM and installed keys.
Understanding Product Keys in Windows
What is a Product Key?
A product key is a unique alphanumeric code used to activate and verify the authenticity of a software product. For Windows operating systems, this key is crucial for installation, activation, and ensuring the software’s authenticity.
Types of Product Keys
There are several types of product keys used by Microsoft:
OEM Key (Original Equipment Manufacturer): This key is provided by the hardware manufacturer and is pre-installed on devices. It is tied to the hardware and cannot be transferred to another device.
- Retail Key: Purchased directly from Microsoft or authorized retailers, this key can be transferred to another device if it is only used on one device at a time.
- Volume License Key: This key is used by organizations, allowing multiple installations with a single license.
Importance of Knowing Your Product Key
Knowing your product key is essential for several reasons:
- Reinstallation: To reinstall Windows, you’ll need your product key to activate the system.
- System Upgrades: When upgrading hardware, especially the motherboard, you may need to reactivate Windows using the product key.
- Validation and Support: Having the product key can be helpful when seeking support from Microsoft or verifying the authenticity of your software.
What is ShowKeyPlus?
Overview of ShowKeyPlus
ShowKeyPlus is a lightweight, free utility designed to retrieve and display the Windows product key. Technicians and everyday users alike widely use it for its simplicity and effectiveness.
Key Features of ShowKeyPlus
- Product Key Retrieval: Easily retrieves and displays the Windows product key from your system.
- Compatibility: Supports multiple versions of Windows, including Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10.
- OEM Key Detection: Detects and displays the OEM key if available.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy for all user levels.
How Does ShowKeyPlus Work?
Retrieving the Product Key
ShowKeyPlus scans the system’s registry and BIOS/UEFI firmware to locate the product key. Depending on the system’s configuration, it can retrieve both the installed and OEM keys.
Displaying the Keys
Upon retrieving the keys, ShowKeyPlus displays them in an easy-to-read format. The information typically includes:
- Installed Key: The product key currently used by the installed Windows operating system.
- OEM Key: The original product key embedded in the system’s firmware by the manufacturer.
Will ShowKeyPlus Display the OEM Key or the Installed Key?
Differentiating Between OEM and Installed Keys
ShowKeyPlus can display both the OEM and installed keys, provided that both are available on the system. The distinction between these keys is as follows:
- OEM Key: This key is embedded in the manufacturer’s firmware (BIOS/UEFI). It is used to activate Windows when the device is first set up.
- Installed Key: This key is currently used by the Windows operating system. It could be an OEM key, a retail key, or a volume license key.
Scenarios Where ShowKeyPlus Displays Different Keys
- Fresh Installation on an OEM System: If the manufacturer pre-installed Windows, ShowKeyPlus will display the OEM key.
- Upgraded or Reinstalled Windows: If the user has reinstalled Windows or upgraded using a different key (e.g., a retail key), ShowKeyPlus will display the newly installed vital in addition to the OEM key if it still exists in the firmware.
Practical Example
Let’s consider a practical example to illustrate how ShowKeyPlus works:
- Original OEM Installation: A user buys a laptop with Windows 10 pre-installed. The OEM key is embedded in the BIOS/UEFI.
- Reinstallation: The user later reinstalls Windows using a retail copy of Windows 10. During installation, the user enters a new retail key.
- Using ShowKeyPlus: When the user runs ShowKeyPlus, the tool displays both the OEM key (from the firmware) and the newly installed retail key.
Steps to Use ShowKeyPlus
Download and Install ShowKeyPlus
- Visit the Official Website: Download ShowKeyPlus from the official website or a trusted source.
- Install the Application: Follow the instructions to install ShowKeyPlus on your system.
Running ShowKeyPlus
- Launch the Application: Open ShowKeyPlus from the Start menu or desktop shortcut.
- Retrieve the Keys: The application automatically scans your system and displays the product keys.
Interpreting the Results
- Installed Key: Displayed under “Product Key,” the key currently used by your Windows installation.
- OEM Key: If available, this is displayed under “OEM Key”; the manufacturer initially embedded this key in the firmware.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Missing OEM Key
If ShowKeyPlus does not display an OEM key, it could be due to the following reasons:
- Non-OEM System: The device was not originally shipped with a pre-installed Windows OS.
- Firmware Issues: The OEM key might not be appropriately embedded.
Incorrect Key Display
If ShowKeyPlus displays an incorrect or unexpected key, consider the following:
- Multiple Activations: Over time, the system might have been activated with multiple keys. Ensure you are looking at the correct key for your current installation.
- Key Overwrite: In some cases, updates or changes to the system might overwrite the original key.
Alternatives to ShowKeyPlus
Other Key Retrieval Tools
While ShowKeyPlus is a popular choice, there are other tools available for retrieving Windows product keys:
- Belarc Advisor: Provides detailed system information, including the product key.
- ProduKey by NirSoft: A simple utility that retrieves product keys from your system.
- Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder: Another essential retrieval tool supporting multiple software products.
Manual Methods
Product keys can sometimes be retrieved directly from the system’s registry or BIOS/UEFI for those who prefer manual methods. However, this process is more complex and requires technical knowledge.
Conclusion
ShowKeyPlus is a reliable and user-friendly tool for retrieving Windows product keys. It can display both the OEM and installed keys, making it a versatile solution for various scenarios. Whether you’re reinstalling Windows, upgrading your system, or verifying your product key, ShowKeyPlus provides an easy and effective way to access this vital information.