How to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 for free

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 free of charge. While Microsoft has removed the special upgrade offer sites, the company continues to activate Windows 10 licences for people who upgrade from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.

ZDNet’s Ed Bott has been testing this method for years and the free upgrade still works. It’s also really simple for anyone to upgrade from Windows 7, especially as support ended for the operating system on Tuesday. Assuming your PC supports the minimum requirements for Windows 10, you’ll be able to upgrade from Microsoft’s site.

The most important thing to remember is that the Windows 7 to Windows 10 upgrade could wipe your settings and apps. There’s an option to keep your files and personal data, but because of differences between Windows 10 and Windows 7, it’s not always possible to keep all of your existing apps. Make sure you’ve noted what apps you use regularly so you can easily obtain them by downloading the installers again. Windows 8.1 can also be upgraded the same way, but without needing to wipe your apps and settings.

Here’s how to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10:

• Back up all of your important documents, apps, and

data

• Head over to Microsoft’s Windows 10 download site • In the Create Windows 10 installation media section,

select “Download tool now” and run the app

• When prompted, choose “Upgrade this PC now” • You’ll then be asked whether you want to keep your personal files or start fresh. Remember: starting fresh or keeping your files still means that all apps and settings will be deleted 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.