Watermarks on Windows 8 and Windows 10 can sometimes be distracting. They usually appear when your system is not activated or when you are using a preview version of Windows. Removing these watermarks helps create a cleaner desktop experience.
This guide will walk you through simple steps to remove the watermark safely. No advanced technical skills are required, and you can follow along easily.
We will cover multiple methods, starting with the easiest and moving to more advanced options. This way, you can pick the one that suits you best.
By the end of this article, you will know how to remove the watermark without affecting your system’s performance.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Check that your Windows version is genuine and activated. Watermarks often indicate activation issues.
- Some watermarks, like those from Insider Preview builds, may indicate beta software and are temporary.
- Always create a system restore point before making changes to system files or settings. This helps you revert back in case something goes wrong.
- Removing watermarks does not activate Windows. Activation requires a valid product key from Microsoft.
Method 1: Using the Registry Editor
This is the most common and straightforward method to remove watermarks from Windows 8 and Windows 10. The Registry Editor allows you to modify system settings directly.
Step 1: Open Registry Editor
Press Windows + R keys on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit and press Enter. You might be asked for administrator permission; click Yes to continue.
Step 2: Navigate to the Correct Registry Path
In the Registry Editor, use the left sidebar to go to the following path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USERControl PanelDesktopThis folder contains display settings for your user account.
Step 3: Modify the PaintDesktopVersion Value
Find the entry named PaintDesktopVersion on the right-hand side. It controls whether the watermark is displayed.
Double-click on PaintDesktopVersion, change the Value data from 1 to 0, and click OK.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC to apply the changes. The watermark should now be gone.
Why This Works
The PaintDesktopVersion registry key tells Windows whether to show the version watermark on your desktop. Setting it to 0 disables the watermark.
Method 2: Using Command Prompt (For Insider Preview Watermarks)
If you are running an Insider Preview version of Windows, a watermark often appears indicating the build version. This method temporarily hides it.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin) from the menu.
Step 2: Execute the Command
Copy and paste the following command and press Enter:
slmgr /upkThis command uninstalls the current product key, which can remove certain watermarks for preview builds.
Step 3: Restart Your Computer
Restart your PC to check if the watermark has disappeared.
Note:
This method may not work for all watermark types. It is mainly useful for preview or evaluation versions of Windows.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Tools (Advanced Users)
There are third-party tools available that claim to remove watermarks automatically. If you decide to use these, proceed with caution.
- Download tools only from trusted sources to avoid malware.
- Always back up your system before running any tool that modifies system files.
- Use these tools as a last resort if other methods fail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it legal to remove the Windows watermark?
Removing the watermark itself is not illegal, but it does not replace the need for a valid Windows license. Activation is required to comply with Microsoft’s terms.
Will removing the watermark activate Windows?
No. Removing the watermark only hides it visually. You still need to activate Windows with a valid product key.
Can I remove the watermark without admin rights?
No. Modifying registry settings or running commands to remove watermarks requires administrator privileges.
Why does the watermark keep coming back after restarting?
If your Windows is not activated or you are using an evaluation version, the watermark may reappear. Activation or upgrading to a full version is necessary to permanently remove it.
Is it safe to edit the registry?
Editing the registry is safe if you follow instructions carefully. Always back up the registry or create a system restore point before making changes.
When Nothing Works
If the watermark persists after trying all methods, consider the following options:
- Activate your Windows copy with a genuine product key. You can buy one from the official Microsoft Store or authorized retailers.
- Contact Microsoft Support for help with activation issues or watermark removal.
- Consider reinstalling Windows with a clean, activated version if your current copy is corrupted or an evaluation build.
- Visit the official Microsoft activation page for more information: Activate Windows 10
Conclusion
Removing the watermark on Windows 8 and Windows 10 is usually straightforward. The registry edit method is the simplest and safest way to hide it. Command Prompt commands can help with preview build watermarks, while third-party tools should be used carefully and only if necessary.
Remember, these methods do not replace the need for genuine Windows activation. Keeping your system activated ensures full access to features and updates without interruptions.
Always back up your system before making changes and reach out to official Microsoft support if you face persistent issues.