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How to recognise an original Microsoft licence: what to look for

An original Microsoft licence has certain characteristics that let you recognise it. Here we show how a genuine licence key is structured, what belongs to a complete licence and what marks out a reputable source.

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How do you recognise an original Microsoft licence? We explain the key format, what comes with a genuine licence and what makes an original key.

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The characteristics of an original licence

  • The key format. An original Microsoft key consists of 25 alphanumeric characters, split into five groups of five, separated by hyphens.
  • The complete scope of delivery. An original licence includes not just the key, but also a way to obtain the matching, Microsoft-signed setup file.
  • The proof of purchase. A VAT invoice documents the lawful acquisition and is part of every properly sold licence.
  • The successful activation. The ultimately decisive characteristic: Microsoft's server accepts the key and lists the software as original.

What does not define an original key

An original licence is not recognised by fancy packaging or a glossy card. With the electronic delivery that is common today, there is no physical medium; the key arrives by email. That is not a shortcoming, but the standard.

And a low price is no sign of a counterfeit. An original, previously used licence may be cheaper than new goods; this is the principle of exhaustion. What matters is not the price, but the combination of correct format, complete scope of delivery, proof of purchase and successful activation.

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Wer hinter einem Shop steht, ist öffentlich nachprüfbar: ein seriöser Händler hat eine echte Firma mit Registereintrag und gültiger USt-IdNr., beides einsehbar. Die Herkunft eines einzelnen Keys lässt sich von aussen zwar nicht belegen, wohl aber, ob hinter dem Shop eine fassbare Firma steht. Bei uns geht das sogar live, gleich hier.

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What does a genuine Microsoft licence key look like?

25 alphanumeric characters in five groups of five, separated by hyphens. This format is identical for Office 2016 through 2024 and for Windows.

Does a genuine licence include a physical medium?

No. With today's standard electronic delivery, the key arrives by email together with a way to download the software. A missing physical medium is not a sign of inauthenticity.

Is a cheap licence less genuine?

No. A previously used licence may legally be cheaper than a new one. Whether or not it is genuine is shown by the format, the scope of delivery, the proof of purchase, and successful activation, not by the price.
About Keywi24

Keywi24 is a Swiss online shop for verified pre-owned Microsoft and antivirus software licences. The team has in-depth market knowledge from over five years of experience. Our goal is not to become the largest licence shop, but the most trusted.

That’s why we don’t invest in marketing hype, but in 90 days of real technical support after every purchase. Legal basis: CJEU ruling C-128/11 (03.07.2012) and Art. 12 para. 2 URG.

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