How to Extend Your Windows Trial Period Legally

Installing Windows without a license allows you to use the operating system in trial mode, but after 30 days, you’ll start seeing activation reminders and lose some functionality. Fortunately, Microsoft provides legal ways to extend the trial period before you need a full license.

In this guide, we’ll explore official methods to prolong your Windows trial, along with alternative solutions if you need more time. We’ll also discuss how tools like KMSPico can help activate Windows if you’re not ready to purchase a license yet.

Why Extend the Windows Trial Period?

Windows allows users to test the OS before buying, but the default trial lasts only 30 days. Extending it legally can be useful if:

  • You’re evaluating Windows for business or personal use.
  • You’re waiting for a discount on a genuine license.
  • You need temporary access while troubleshooting licensing issues.

While the best long-term solution is a legitimate product key, these methods can buy you more time.

Method 1: Use the Windows Trial Rearm Command (SLMGR -REARM)

Microsoft includes a built-in command to reset the trial period up to 3 times, giving you an extra 90 days (30 days per reset).

Steps to Extend Windows Trial with SLMGR -REARM:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
  • Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin).
  1. Enter the Rearm Command
  • Type the following and press Enter:
  • cmd
  • slmgr /rearm
  • You’ll see a message: “Command completed successfully. Please restart the system for the changes to take effect.”
  1. Restart Your PC
  • After rebooting, check activation status:
  • cmd
  • slmgr /xpr
  • This will show your new expiration date.

Limitations:

  • Works only 3 times (max 120 days total including the initial trial).
  • After the third rearm, you must activate Windows with a genuine key.

Method 2: Create a New User Account Before Trial Ends

Some users report that creating a new local admin account before the trial expires can reset certain restrictions.

How to Try This Workaround:

  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
  2. Click Add someone else to this PC and create a new administrator account.
  3. Log in to the new account—some features may temporarily work again.

Note: This is not officially supported by Microsoft and may not work on all versions.

Method 3: Reinstall Windows to Reset the Trial

If you’ve exhausted the slmgr /rearm method, a clean reinstall will reset the trial.

Steps:

  1. Back up your files.
  2. Create a Windows installation USB using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool.
  3. Reinstall Windows—the 30-day trial will restart.

Downside: You’ll lose installed programs and settings.

What Happens If You Don’t Activate Windows?

If you don’t extend or activate Windows after the trial:

  • A “Windows isn’t activated” watermark appears.
  • You lose personalization options (themes, wallpapers, etc.).
  • Some updates may be blocked.
  • Eventually, you’ll see more frequent reminders.

Alternative Solution: Using KMSPico for Temporary Activation

If you need a longer-term solution without buying a license yet, KMSPico is a popular tool that activates Windows and Office using Microsoft’s own KMS (Key Management Service) technology.

How KMSPico Works:

  • Emulates a KMS server on your PC to activate Windows/Office.
  • Provides 180-day activation (renewable).
  • Works on Windows 10, 11, and Microsoft Office.

Is KMSPico Safe & Legal?

  • Technically, KMS activation is meant for enterprise environments.
  • Using it on a single PC is against Microsoft’s terms, but it doesn’t modify system files like cracks do.
  • For legal compliance, always switch to a genuine license when possible.

For a reliable download and guide, visit KMSPico.com.

Final Thoughts: Should You Keep Extending or Buy a License?

While extending the trial is helpful, eventually you should activate Windows legally for:

✔ Full security updates

✔ No restrictions

✔ Compliance with Microsoft’s terms

If you’re not ready to purchase a key yet, KMSPico can serve as a temporary solution.

Need More Help?

For detailed guides on Windows activation, troubleshooting, and tools, visit KMSPico.com.

By following these methods, you can legally extend your Windows trial while deciding on a permanent activation solution. 🚀

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