The subreddit page https://www.reddit.com/r/cheapwindowskeys/comments/1d5jz9b/getting_a_windows_11_key_cheap/ tries to answer queries on where to get a cheap windows 11 product key. However, it should be clear to readers of the page that the information related to product keys are those offered in Grey Markets.
The entrepreneurs behind the business usually sell product keys of decommissioned Windows 10 OS that were formerly part of a volume software licensing agreement legally entered with Microsoft. It’s not illegal but it’s risky since Microsoft is now using a different approach in setting up and installing Windows 11 in PCs and other devices.
Actually a product key is no longer necessary as this has been replaced with the registered license entered by a user with Microsoft. Obtaining a registered license automatically activates the Windows 11 OS purchased from the Microsoft Online Store.
What is more important though is that the PC must meet all the system requirements. Otherwise, the installation of the software will not be successful.
It’s a different thing altogether if you bought your new PC from an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) because the computer can be expected to meet system requirements. In which case, the device may already be running with the most current Windows 10 version, and a user can simply upgrade for free, to Windows 11. If otherwise, your best course of action is to get in touch with the OEM so you can get a replacement PC.
While OS upgrade is free of charge, additional fees may be charged by Internet service providers (ISPs) for metered connections. Mainly because there is a data limit associated with Internet usage. Microsoft support also forewarns that upgrading of Windows 10 to 11 via metered Internet connections could also cause some built-in apps to work differently as a means of helping the OS user to reduce data usage.
Consequences of Installing Windows 11 on a PC that Do Not Meet Systems Requirement
Comprehend that using a product key to successfully upgrade to Windows 11 is not the appropriate solution for PCs that do not conform to Microsoft’s system requirements. MS support warns that even if a user successfully installed the latest Windows OS using third party scripts, the ineligibility of a computer or device, could cause the program to malfunction due to compatibility issues.
Moreover, devices installed with illegally obtained Microsoft OS products cannot expect to receive updates for all features and apps including security reworks and revisions.
Latest Windows 11 Version 24H2 : How Will It Impact Ineligible PCs Running with Windows 11 OS
The subreddit info page about cheap Windows product keys mentioned the forthcoming release of the latest Windows 11 version 24H2. Actually, Microsoft has already rolled out an update of the latest OS in the Release Preview Channel last May 2024.
Still, Microsoft said the 24H2 version will be rolled out officially, either in September or October of this year once it attains General Availability (GA). According to related blogs, Microsoft has already blocked the email address previously used in bypassing Microsoft’s system, to illegally set up and install Windows 11.
Device users with intent to install the 24H2 version but using an invalid email address will be blocked by the program’s AI and simply sent back to the sign-in page. Apparently, the new Windows system automatically loops back if it detects an invalid Microsoft email account.