Alex Ruben
How to Permanently Remove the Activate Windows 11 Watermark
Are you tired of seeing the annoying “Activate Windows” watermark on your Windows 11 desktop? In this guide, you will learn how to remove this watermark permanently, without needing to purchase a product key or resort to unreliable methods. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can regain an uncluttered desktop experience.
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
To start the process, you need to open the Registry Editor. This is a system tool that allows you to view and modify the Windows registry. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the Windows key on your keyboard.
- Type
regeditin the search box and hit Enter. - From the results, select Registry Editor to open it. You might be prompted with a User Account Control message asking, “Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device?” Click Yes to proceed.
Step 2: Navigate to the Correct Registry Path
Once you have the Registry Editor open, you’ll need to navigate to a specific registry key that controls the watermark settings. Follow this path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\UnsupportedHardwareNotificationCache
To do this, expand the folders on the left side of the Registry Editor until you reach the UnsupportedHardwareNotificationCache folder.
Step 3: Modify the SV2 Value
Next, you’ll modify the value of a specific entry within the key you just accessed:
- Find the entry named SV2 in the right pane.
- Right-click on SV2 and select Modify.
- Change the Value data from
1to0.
This change will effectively disable the watermark notification. Make sure to save the changes, then exit the Registry Editor.
Step 4: Restart Your PC
To apply the changes you’ve just made, restart your computer. Doing this will ensure that the settings take effect. When your computer boots up again, you should notice that the “Activate Windows” watermark has disappeared from your desktop.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
While the above steps should work for most users, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Ensure that you follow the steps correctly to avoid potential errors.
- If the watermark persists, double-check the SV2 value in the Registry Editor to ensure it is changed to
0. - It’s advisable to back up your registry before making any changes; this will help you revert back in case something goes wrong.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can successfully remove the “Activate Windows” watermark from your Windows 11 desktop. This solution is both effective and straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a cleaner workspace. If you encounter any issues or have further questions, feel free to look for additional guides or check community forums for support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do this if I have a trial version of Windows 11?
Yes, the steps outlined can be performed regardless of whether you have a trial version or a fully licensed version. However, regular usage of Windows without activation is not recommended.
What if I accidentally changed the wrong registry value?
If you made changes to the wrong registry entry, you can restore your registry settings using the backup you created previously or by following the steps to revert the changes.
Is there a risk involved in editing the registry?
Yes, modifying the Windows Registry can lead to system instability if incorrect values are changed. Therefore, proceed with caution and ensure you follow each step accurately.
