Why does reinstalling Windows 11 need a key?

1. When you first install Windows 11, you are prompted to input a product key. The product key is normally included with the purchase of a new computer that comes pre-installed with Windows, but it can also be purchased independently.

2. The product key is used to activate Windows 11, which is the process by which Microsoft validates that your copy of Windows is legitimate and has been properly licenced.

3. You may be prompted for the product key again if you reinstall Windows 11. This is because the activation process requires confirmation that you have a valid operating system licence.

4. If you reinstall Windows 11 on the same machine, you may not need to enter a product key again if the previous activation was successful.

5. If you install Windows 11 on a new machine, you must enter a new product key to activate it.

6. Activating Windows 11 assures that you are using a fully licenced and supported version of the operating system, and also aids in the prevention of piracy.

I hope this was helpful! Please let me know if you have any further queries.