For example, a product key for Windows 7 Starter, Home Basic, and Home Premium can be used to activate Windows 10. And Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate product keys can activate Windows 10 Pro. It has to be a retail key, not a key that came with a computer.
Now Microsoft has announced that users can use the product key of Windows 7, 8 or 8.1 versions to activate Windows 10 which means you will not need to first upgrade your existing Windows version to Windows 10. Now you’ll also be able to perform a direct clean install of Windows 10 and then activate it using your Windows 7, 8 or 8.1 product 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.
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.
From windows 7, use the upgrade tool and install win 10. This will convert your key to a windows 10 key. Next, sign into a Microsoft account. This will tie your win 10 key to that account.
What happens to my Windows 7 key when upgrading to Windows 10?
You will have a new and different Windows Product Key after upgrading to Windows 10. While it’s possible this will be the same as your Windows 7 key it is unlikely, instead you will have a different Windows 10 only key which can then be used for doing a clean install of Windows 10.
How to install Windows 10 on Windows 7?
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.
Should I upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10?
You’ll be relying upon the Windows 7 product key activating the first install of Windows 10 on the computer. It’s a more reliable bet to upgrade an already activated Windows 7 the first time to establish the digital license for Windows 10. Okay great, thanks. And since 7 was just cleanly restored, I shouldn’t be inheriting any issues.
To Perform an Easy Upgrade in Windows 10 After upgrading, proceed to enter the Windows 7 Professional, Ultimate or Windows 8 Pro product key. Click Start> Settings > Update & security > Activation> Change the product keythen enter the new product key then click.