Removing the "Activate Windows" watermark from your Windows 11 desktop can be a pesky task, but it’s not impossible. Whether it’s there because you haven’t activated your Windows license yet or due to a glitch after a recent update, this watermark can be an eyesore. In the next few paragraphs, I’ll guide you through the steps to get rid of it.
Step by Step Tutorial: Remove Activate Windows Watermark Windows 11
Before we dive into the steps, let me quickly explain what we’re about to do. We’re going to access a few settings on your computer and make some changes. By doing so, we’ll remove that annoying watermark from your desktop.
Step 1: Open Registry Editor
Type "Regedit" in your Windows search bar and open the Registry Editor.
The Registry Editor is a powerful tool that stores settings for just about everything on your computer. We’re going to tweak a couple of these settings to remove the watermark.
Step 2: Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER
Once in the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER > Control Panel > Desktop.
This is where your computer stores all the desktop-specific settings. We’re going to change one of these settings to get rid of the watermark.
Step 3: Modify PaintDesktopVersion
Right-click on "PaintDesktopVersion" and select "Modify." Change the value from 1 to 0.
The "PaintDesktopVersion" setting controls whether or not the watermark is displayed on your desktop. Changing the value to 0 turns it off.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
After making the change, close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.
This step ensures that the changes you made are applied. When your computer boots up again, the watermark should be gone.
After completing these steps, you should have a clean desktop free of the "Activate Windows" watermark. However, remember that if your Windows isn’t activated, the watermark might reappear after some time or after certain updates.
Tips for Removing Activate Windows Watermark Windows 11
- Make sure to back up your registry before making changes, just in case something goes wrong.
- If you’re not comfortable making changes in the Registry Editor, consider seeking help from someone who is.
- Keep your Windows license key handy, just in case you need to activate Windows to remove the watermark permanently.
- Make sure your Windows is up to date, as some updates can remove the watermark.
- If the watermark is due to a glitch, running the Windows Activation troubleshooter might help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will removing the watermark activate my Windows?
No, removing the watermark does not activate Windows. It only removes the visual reminder to activate.
Can this process harm my computer?
If not done correctly, making changes to the registry can harm your computer. Always back up your registry before making changes.
What if the watermark comes back?
If the watermark reappears, it’s possible that your Windows requires activation, or the system has overridden the registry changes after an update. You may need to repeat the process or activate your Windows.
Can I use this method on other versions of Windows?
This method is specific to Windows 11, but similar steps can be used on other versions of Windows with some modification.
Do I need to be an administrator to remove the watermark?
Yes, you need to have administrative privileges to make changes in the Registry Editor.
Summary
- Open Registry Editor.
- Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER.
- Modify PaintDesktopVersion.
- Restart your computer.
Conclusion
Getting rid of the "Activate Windows" watermark on Windows 11 is a straightforward process if you know your way around the Registry Editor. But remember, this doesn’t mean your Windows is activated. It’s always best to use a genuine Windows license to ensure you get all the updates and support from Microsoft. If you’re not comfortable making these changes yourself, it might be a good idea to reach out to a tech-savvy friend or a professional. After all, dealing with the registry can be risky business if you’re not careful. So, go ahead and give your desktop a clean look, but don’t forget to handle your operating system with care. Happy computing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.