Where do I find the product key on Windows 11 for my new laptop

norane wiggins 40 Reputation points
2025-10-19T20:30:32.33+00:00

I bought a new laptop with Windows 11 and need word, Excell and Adobe. Where do I find the product key, or do I have to purchase everything separate?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Word | For education | Windows
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Stefan Blom 357.3K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
2025-10-19T23:50:03.6933333+00:00

A license for Windows won't include Adobe Acrobat or Microsoft Office. Sometimes, the computer manufacturer or the retailer adds some programs for you (often just trial versions, though). If not, you will have to purchase the programs you need separately; that is correct.

If you need Word and Excel for a single PC, the cheapest option is Office Home 2024, which is a one-time payment license for one user and one computer (installation on multiple devices or on mobile devices not included). See https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/p/office-home-2024/cfq7ttc0pqvj .

To find out about Adobe's products, it is better to visit their site at https://www.adobe.com/ .

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Answer accepted by question author
Ruby-N 13,345 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
2025-10-19T22:15:24.65+00:00

Dear @norane wiggins, 

Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.  

I understand you're trying to locate the Windows 11 product key for your new laptop and are also wondering whether Word, Excel, and Adobe need to be purchased separately.  

If your laptop comes with Windows 11 pre-installed, you don’t need to enter a product key manually. Windows usually activates automatically using a digital license linked to your device or Microsoft account. 

If you do need the key, you can check: 

  • Firmware (UEFI/BIOS): Often embedded and auto detected. 
  • Retail box: Look for a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) label. 
  • Digital purchase: Check your confirmation email or Microsoft account order history. 

This article provides further guidance on the topic: Find your Windows product key - Microsoft Support 

Regarding Word, Excel and Adobe: 

These apps are not included with Windows 11 by default. You’ll need to purchase or subscribe separately. 

Microsoft Word & Excel Options: 

  • Microsoft 365 Subscription: Includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. Always updated, usable on multiple devices. Plans: Personal, Family, or Business. 
  • Office 2024 One-Time Purchase: Pay once for one device. No updates or cloud features. 

Additional information is available in the following resources: 

What's the difference between Microsoft 365 and Office 2024? - Microsoft Support 

Compare All Microsoft 365 Plans (Formerly Office 365) - Microsoft Store 

Adobe Products: Usually require separate purchases or subscriptions via Adobe’s website. 

Note: Microsoft is providing this information as a convenience to you. The sites are not controlled by Microsoft. Microsoft cannot make any representations regarding the quality, safety, or suitability of any software or information found there. Please make sure that you completely understand the risk before retrieving any suggestions from the above link 

I hope the information provided proves useful. Please proceed with the outlined steps and let me know whether they resolve the issue. If not, I’ll be glad to continue working with you to find a solution. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding throughout this process. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out at any time. 


If the answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and kindly upvote it. If you have any extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment". 

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