How to Upgrade From Windows 7 to Windows 10 GA S REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Software & Apps > Windows 67 67 people found this article helpful

How to Upgrade From Windows 7 to Windows 10

Upgrade Windows 7 to Windows 10 for little to no cost

By Daniel N. Martin Daniel N. Martin Writer University at Buffalo Daniel Martin is a writer and researcher with 10+ years' experience. He is a professional librarian and an experienced tech and information literacy teacher. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on October 8, 2022 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Windows The Ultimate Laptop Buying Guide

What to Know

Download Windows Media Creation Tool > sign in as admin > Run > Upgrade this PC now > Next.If you don’t have a product key, purchase Windows 10 directly from Microsoft.If your whole PC needs an upgrade, you can buy a new PC with Windows 10 included. This article explains how to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10.

How to Upgrade From Windows 7 to Windows 10

If your computer is relatively new, you can likely upgrade to Windows 10 with few difficulties. However, if your PC was made around the time Windows 7 was first rolled out, it may not meet the technical requirements. Microsoft has posted the minimum system requirements to run Windows 10. Meeting the requirements only means Windows 10 will run on your system, not necessarily perform well.

How to Update Windows 7 to Windows 10 Using a Product Key

If you still have a product key from Windows 7, 8, or 8.1, you can upgrade to Windows 10 for free. All you need to do is download the Windows Media Creation Tool to get started. Download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft and select Run. You need to be signed in as an administrator to do so. From the License Terms page, select Accept. Select Upgrade this PC now, then select Next. The tool will walk you through setting up Windows 10. All versions of Windows 10 are available to download except for the Enterprise edition. Select either the 32-Bit or 64-Bit version depending on your system. Before installing, review your software choices and any files or programs you want to keep. Choose between transferring personal data and apps, personal files only, or nothing during the upgrade. Save and close any open apps and files you may be running. When you’re ready, select Install. Don’t turn off your PC while Windows 10 installs; your PC restarts several times. Once Windows 10 finishes installing, enter your Windows 7, 8 or 8.1 Product Key when prompted.

Purchase Windows 10 Directly

If you don’t happen to have a product key from Windows 7, 8, or 8.1, you can always purchase Windows 10 directly from Microsoft. The basic version of Windows 10 costs $139, Windows 10 Pro starts at $199.99, and Windows 10 Pro for Workstations costs $309. Most PC users will only need Windows 10 Basic or Pro for their devices.

Other Methods of Upgrading Windows 7 To Windows 10

If your whole PC needs an upgrade, know that all new Microsoft PCs come with Windows 10 as the standard operating system. For between $150 and $500, you can get a brand-new computer with Windows 10 included at no additional cost.

Why Should I Upgrade Windows

Windows 7 has served as many PC users’ operating system, but as Microsoft is no longer supporting this version of the operating system. While Microsoft is offering businesses the opportunity to purchase extended support through 2023, it's cheaper and easier to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10. As of January 2020, Microsoft is no longer supporting Windows 7. We recommend upgrading to Windows 10, per the instructions below, to continue receiving security updates and technical support. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Upgrade From Windows 10 Home to Pro Can I Upgrade to Windows 8? Windows 10: Release Date, Editions, Features, and More Upgrade from Windows 7 to 10 for Free? Maybe How to Resume a Windows 10 Upgrade Run Commands in Windows 7 [Complete Executable List] How to Downgrade from Windows 11 Windows 8: Editions, Updates, Licenses, & More Windows 10 Home vs. Windows 10 Pro How to Clean Install Windows 8 Pro Upgrade What Version of Windows Do I Have? Patch Tuesday (Most Recent: October 11, 2022) Windows 7: Editions, Service Packs, Licenses, and More A Brief History of Microsoft Windows List of Windows 7 Command Prompt Commands How to Check Computer Specs Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies