It typically uses a "Hardware ID" (HWID) method. This mimics a legitimate upgrade process where Microsoft assigns a "Digital Entitlement" to your computer's specific hardware configuration, allowing for automatic reactivation even if you reinstall Windows later. AppNee Freeware Group
Microsoft’s official "assistive technologies" free upgrade officially ended in 2018. However, the activation servers still accept Windows 7 and 8.1 keys. If you have an old, unused laptop sticker key, you can still enter it directly in Windows 10 Settings → Activation → Change Product Key. w10 digital activation appnee
For secure and legitimate activation, users should use authorized methods: It typically uses a "Hardware ID" (HWID) method