A Windows 11 Home Retail Product Key is a unique 25-character code used to activate and authenticate the retail version of the Windows 11 Home operating system. This key is typically provided with a physical or digital purchase of Windows 11 Home and grants access to all its features, including a redesigned Start Menu, Snap Layouts, Microsoft Store, and enhanced security features like Windows Hello and BitLocker encryption.

The product key follows the format: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX.

A retail key can be transferred to a different computer, unlike an OEM key, which is tied to a specific device. The key is required during installation or after significant hardware changes to ensure the system is properly activated and genuine.