The most effective method to remove the “ activate windows” watermark is to edit the Windows registry. Method 1: Activate Windows” Watermark With Registry You won’t be able to install Microsoft Office on a “non-activated” version of Windows 10, and you won’t get any Windows Updates, which means your machine will always be subject to bugs, crashes, and infections. Such as your system’s dark mode, Windows Defender & Security, Windows Hello, and plenty of other features. Many functions of Windows 10 are only available if the license is activated. Windows 10’s features are one of the reasons you should activate it. Microsoft reminds you that your Windows version is not valid and that you need to buy an official valid key for your version of Windows to activate all its features. The “Activate Windows” watermark on the desktop indicates that your Windows 10 operating system is not activated with a valid license. Why Do I See The “Activate Windows” Watermark?