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How to Upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 for FREE (Step-by-Step Guide)

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. Microsoft continues to activate Windows 10 licenses for people who upgrade from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 to Windows 10. That may even mean you’ll be able to upgrade to Windows 11 for free as well — Here’s how to upgrade to Windows 11 for free. To Start the upgrade from Windows 7 to 10 Via Direct Download, follow the guide below: Navigate to https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10 Click the “Download Tool now” button Launch the Download Tool. Click Select Upgrade this PC Now if you are just installing on this computer and want to do so right away. However, if you want to create your own USB or DVD media, see the section below on “How to Create Windows 8 Install Media.” Though it requires a few extra steps and a blank Flash drive or disc, creating your own install media allows you to not only install on multiple computers, but also reinstall on your current computer if something goes wrong. The tool will take a while to download the software so be patient, particularly if you have a slow Internet connection. After it downloads, the software also goes through a preparation process and downloads some more files, all of which takes time, perhaps as long as an hour even on a high-speed connection. Click Accept on the license terms screen. Wait again as the software checks for updates. You may want to walk away, as this also takes several minutes. If you’re upgrading from Windows 7 make sure to select “keep personal files and app” or the upgrade won’t work. Then Click the Install button. Wait 20 to 30 minutes for the computer to copy files. It will reboot several times. Click Next at the login screen. Click Use Express settings. You can always change some settings later. Click Next on the “New apps for the new Windows” screen. The computer will say “finalizing your settings,” and then take you to the Windows 10 lock screen. Log in to your computer. Windows 10 will take another couple of minutes to do an initial setup and then it will take you to the Windows desktop. NOTE: You can get your Windows 10 activating key from HERE.

Upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 Free – Here’s How You Can Still Do It

Even though Microsoft’s official free upgrade offer for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 users technically ended, the upgrade path is still very much alive. Believe it or not, you can still upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 for free using a simple, official method provided by Microsoft. This not only brings you up to date with modern features and enhanced security but might also pave the way for a free upgrade to Windows 11 if your hardware supports it.

Let’s walk you through the full, foolproof method to upgrade your device directly and legally for free.

Note you get your windows 10 here


Why Upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 Today?

Windows 7 reached its end of support in January 2020. That means:

• No more security updates or patches

• Increased risk of malware and security breaches

• No support for new apps or features

On the flip side, Windows 10 offers better performance, updated UI, enhanced compatibility, and access to ongoing support.


Step-by-Step: How to Upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 for Free

Here’s a complete, easy-to-follow process to upgrade directly without paying for a license:


Step 1: Go to the Official Windows 10 Download Page

• Open your browser and visit: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10


Step 2: Download the Media Creation Tool

• Click the “Download tool now” button

• Save the file and run the installer


Step 3: Launch and Choose Your Upgrade Option

• When prompted, select “Upgrade this PC now” if you’re upgrading the current device

• If you’d rather create a USB or DVD installation media for another PC, choose “Create installation media for another PC”

Tip: Creating your own install media lets you reuse it later for clean installs or upgrading other computers.


Step 4: Accept Microsoft’s License Terms

• Click Accept on the license agreement screen

• The tool will then check for updates and prepare the system. This can take some time, so be patient


Step 5: Choose to Keep Your Files and Apps

• Select “Keep personal files and apps”

• Failing to choose this option may result in a clean install and potential data loss


Step 6: Begin Installation

• Click the Install button

• The upgrade process will start, and your PC will reboot several times during the installation

• This phase typically takes 20–30 minutes, depending on your hardware


Step 7: Complete Setup and Configuration

• After the final reboot, the login screen will appear

• Click Next, then select Use Express Settings (these can be changed later)

• Proceed through the new apps screen and wait for the system to finalize your settings


Step 8: Log in to Windows 10

• Once setup finishes, log into your account

• Your computer is now running Windows 10, and it will complete some final updates in the background


Bonus Tip: Get Your Windows 10 Activation Key

If your copy of Windows 7 was activated, your Windows 10 installation should activate automatically. Still need a key? You can obtain a Windows 10 activation key [HERE].


Important Notes

• A stable internet connection is crucial during this process

• Backup your important files before beginning, just in case

• If your system is eligible, this method could also allow a free upgrade to Windows 11


Conclusion: Make the Leap to Windows 10 — It’s Still Free

While Microsoft has officially ended the free upgrade offer, the ability to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 without paying remains possible, and surprisingly easy. By using the official Media Creation Tool, you can transform your outdated OS into a faster, more secure Windows 10 system — without losing your files.

Don’t wait until you’re vulnerable. Upgrade today and enjoy a smoother, safer experience.


FAQs
Is it still free to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10?

Yes! While the promotional offer has ended, Microsoft still activates upgrades done through the Media Creation Tool.

Will my files and apps be preserved?

Yes — if you select “Keep personal files and apps” during setup.

Do I need a product key to activate Windows 10?

Usually not. If your Windows 7 copy was activated, Windows 10 should activate automatically.

Can I go back to Windows 7 after upgrading?

Yes — within 10 days, you can roll back via Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.

Is this method legal?

Yes. Microsoft provides the Media Creation Tool and continues to allow activations through it.

Will this also allow me to upgrade to Windows 11 later?

If your PC meets Windows 11’s system requirements, you may be eligible for a free upgrade from Windows 10.

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