I had my laptop fixed by a friend who replaced the battery among other things, but now it seems like all my previous data is gone, and she installed an unofficial version of Windows 10 that doesn't have the app store or options to personalize like changing backgrounds. When I asked about switching back to the official version, she said I'd need a key, which are apparently expensive. Do I need to activate this unofficial version? Can I use my old product key if I can find it? Are there any affordable options for getting an official key? I really want to fix this watermark issue and get access to the app store—it's super frustrating!
2 Answers
You might want to check the system info in your settings. If it shows something like Windows 10 LTSC or IoT, you have a version that isn’t available for regular customers, which makes finding a legal key tricky. Your best bet is reinstalling the official Windows 10 Home version, and that might be easier than you think! Just follow some online instructions.
If you keep this unofficial version, it won't necessarily disrupt day-to-day use, but some features, like changing backgrounds, could be locked behind activation. I’d suggest checking if your original key is tied to your hardware or your Microsoft account, as that could help with activation if you reinstall the official version. However, I wouldn’t rely too much on this unofficial version since it can be risky. Better safe than sorry!
Got it! I’ll check my Microsoft account and see if I can dig up that key.
It says Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC right now. Sounds like I need to switch back!