We are discussing two things here. First will help you figure out if your Windows can be upgraded to Windows 10. Second, if you can upgrade the unlicensed version of Windows 10 and make it a legal copy. Here is our Windows 10 Free Upgrade Guide.
Windows 10 Upgrade Guide, Upgrading unlicensed Windows for Free
Now that Windows 7 is not supported unless you are paying for it, it is important that you choose if you want to upgrade or keep the PC completely disconnected from the internet.
If it’s an old PC, even the minimum hardware requirement needs to be considered. That is something Windows installer or the Upgrade Assistant can figure out.
Can you Upgrade your Windows and which method to follow
The good news is that every Windows version is upgradeable to Windows 10 except for Windows XP and Windows Phone 7.X. The only difference you might see will be in their upgrade path. For some, it will be through the Store, and it will be through the ISO file.
- Windows 7 RTM, Windows 8.1 RTM, and Windows 8.1 will update to Windows 10. It is only by using ISO image, not through Windows Update.
- Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1 S14 & Windows 8 will upgrade via media and Windows Update.
- Those running Windows Phone 8.0 will need t update Windows Phone 8 and then choose to upgrade to Windows 10.
Upgrading unlicensed Windows for Free
In an exciting move, Microsoft did announce that even a pirated copy of Windows is entitled to get a free upgrade. There is a catch, though. It doesn’t allow it to have a legal license. So, How free is FREE?
Once you install Windows 10 using ISO or any other method, you need to switch to the Windows Insider Program. As long as you stay on WIP, you do not need to buy any license. You can choose the least risk mode in Insider (Stable) and keep getting updates that cause the least problems.
Most of the stable builds of Windows Insider or Slow ring work fine. And if you do not wish to get a license, then you can stay on this program.
Upgrade to Windows 10 for Free
While it may sound odd, but Microsoft still allows you to upgrade to Windows 10 from Windows 7 or XP for free. All you need to is download the ISO, create a bootable disk, and start installing.
However, you will have to access which software you will need to replace or upgrade to make it finally work. Unless and until you are using software that has no support and only works in Windows XP or 7, you should be fine.
Are you still on Windows 7 or Windows 8.1? If yes, then when are you planning to upgrade?