Microsoft - Activation Support Customer Service

This number is mostly meant to connect you with the online help system, as it doesn't actually reach a real person. Instead, it allows you to get Windows activated without having to go through the online version of the system.

When you call this number, you're asked if you want to get assistance with setting up Windows or Microsoft Office, even though this number is only meant to be used for setting up Windows. If you're trying to activate Office, you're supposed to dial (888) 652-2342 to get assistance.

I asked for assistance with Windows, and was taken to an automated menu, where the system asked if I'd like a text message with information on how to set up Windows on my computer. I said I would, and the system asked me to confirm that my phone number was able to receive a text.

I confirmed that this number would receive a text, and the system responded with a message including a link to Microsoft's website. When I checked out the link, it asked me to input the information on my computer to get Windows properly set up. The system told me I should follow the instructions in the link to get Windows working, and if I ran into problems, I should call back for further assistance.

Overall, I thought this was a creative way to provide customers with assistance without requiring them to have online access on their computer. Given Microsoft is an online-first company, it makes sense that its phone system would direct people to the website to get them connected that way.

However, this method recognizes that sometimes, people don't have access to the internet on their computer at home. By offering another option in case someone doesn't have a reliable internet connection, Microsoft has ensured that anyone can get connected and use their computer while they wait for the internet to get set up properly.

It is a drawback that there's nobody on the other end to actually take the call, but that's not unexpected with an online-first company such as Microsoft. The link works well and allows a Windows user to input all of the necessary information and remotely get their computer optimized for Windows.

I wouldn't recommend using this number unless you need it, as it's not the most efficient way to set up Windows. But if your internet has gone out and you'd like to get your computer working, this is a fine alternative.