Microsoft’s free upgrade offer for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 users ended a few years ago, but you can still technically upgrade to Windows 10 for free. Although Microsoft has removed special upgrade offer sites, the company continues to activate Windows 10 licenses for people upgrading from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.
ZDNetEd Bott tested this method for years, and the free upgrade still works. It’s also very simple for anyone to upgrade from Windows 7, especially since support for the operating system ends today. Assuming your PC supports minimum system requirements for windows 10, you can upgrade from the Microsoft site.
The most important thing to remember is that upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 10 might erase your settings and apps. There is an option to keep your personal files and data, but due to the differences between Windows 10 and Windows 7, it’s not always possible to keep all of your existing apps. Make sure you have written down the apps you use regularly so that you can easily get them by re-downloading the installers. Windows 8.1 can also be upgraded in the same way, but without needing to erase your apps and settings.
Here’s how to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10:
- Back up all your important documents, apps and data
- See you at Microsoft Windows 10 download site
- In the Create Windows 10 installation media section, select “Download the tool now” and run the application
- When prompted, choose “Upgrade this PC now”.
- You will then be asked if you want to keep your personal files or start over. Remember: starting over or keeping your files means all apps and settings will be removed for the Windows 10 upgrade.
- Once the upgrade is complete, you should receive a digital license for Windows 10, which can be found under Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
Processor with Dieter Bohn
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