Earlier quoted context omitted.
Actually, since Win 10 you can run the OS indefinitely without a license. It just doesn't allow you to customize stuff like the wallpaper etc. Ref: https://www.howtogeek.com/244678/you-dont-need-a-product-key...
I see pre built PCs come with free demo version of win11. They expect you to crack it yourself. Microsoft stopped giving a shit about piracy from consumers. Its a far cry from the days when windows cost €300.
With all the ads they shove in your face you'd think they'd just make the OS free at this point.