Activating Windows 10 with a Windows 7 product key still works, so even if you didn’t install Windows 10 during the free upgrade promo, you can still do that at no extra cost.
Microsoft’s decision not to let users activate Windows 10 using genuine Windows 7/8.1 key has forced many users to upgrade their Windows 7/8.1installation to Windows 10 even if they wanted to perform a clean install of Windows 10 from ISO.
When you’re already on Windows 10, follow the next path to find the activation section that lets you input your Windows 7 product key and activate the operating system : Settings > Update & Security > Activation Click the option that reads Change product key and then input your Windows 7 license key.
How do I activate Windows 10 without a Windows 10 key?
After you’ve installed Windows 10, head to Settings > Update & Security > Activation and you should see that your PC has a digital license. If you didn’t enter a key during the installation process, you can enter a Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 key right in this window when you’re asked to provide a Windows 10 key.
Can Windows 7 keys be used to install Windows 10?
As part of Windows 10’s November update, Microsoft changed the Windows 10 installer disc to also accept Windows 7 or 8.1 keys. This allowed users to perform a clean install Windows 10 and enter a valid Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 key during installation .
Can I upgrade to Windows 10 with my Windows 7 product key?
That being said, a lot of users still find they can upgrade to Windows 10 with their Windows 7 product key, but there is no guarantees it will work. On that page, is it the Home Edition of Windows 10 installed on your PC, because that must match the previous Windows 7 edition.
You can perform an upgrade installation that keeps your existing files or a clean installation that wipes your system drive. When you’re asked to enter a key, enter the Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 key.
How do I get a Windows 7 product key without license?
If you don’t have a Windows 7 product key or the label on your PC is no longer readable, you can still extract the license from your PC as long as the operating system is activated. To do this, you’re going to need a small application called Produ. Key, which you can find on Softpedia using this link.