Newer models since 2012 no longer have COA key sticker. The Key is in bios. Thats why the default install for windows 10 has a "I dont have a product key install option."
Windows 8 keys are encrypted stored in the Bios installed at the factory. There are no more COA Stickers due to piracy. (OEM System Builder Versions Do Still have COA Stickers)
Windows 8 now comes with a Genuine Microsoft Label there are NO MORE Certificate of Authenticity (COA) Labels.
See the following examples of labels to look for.
Color-Shifting Ink The color shift on the label is designed to change from one color to another when viewed from different angles,
making it easy to determine if it is genuine.
Windows 8: magenta to green
Windows 8 Pro: blue to purple
Windows RT: turquoise to purple
Genuine Microsoft Labels
However as you change versions by adding softpacks you should save the previous keys as they are removed and replaced with the PRO and MCE packs. But windows will not clean install with an update pack so you need the original key in order to Install clean then do windows anytime upgrades back to PRO or MCE editions.
speedstep
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March 5th, 2022 22:00
@Karendurousseau070
Newer models since 2012 no longer have COA key sticker. The Key is in bios. Thats why the default install for windows 10 has a "I dont have a product key install option."
Windows 8 keys are encrypted stored in the Bios installed at the factory. There are no more COA Stickers due to piracy. (OEM System Builder Versions Do Still have COA Stickers)
Windows 8 now comes with a Genuine Microsoft Label there are NO MORE Certificate of Authenticity (COA) Labels.
See the following examples of labels to look for.
Color-Shifting Ink
The color shift on the label is designed to change from one color to another when viewed from different angles,
making it easy to determine if it is genuine.
Windows 8: magenta to green
Windows 8 Pro: blue to purple
Windows RT: turquoise to purple
However as you change versions by adding softpacks you should save the previous keys as they are removed and replaced with the PRO and MCE packs. But windows will not clean install with an update pack so you need the original key in order to Install clean then do windows anytime upgrades back to PRO or MCE editions.