Trying to upgrade or install Windows 10, but I’m not sure if it’s free or if I’ll need to pay for a license. I’d appreciate any guidance on whether Microsoft still offers free upgrades or if there’s another way to get it legally without charge. Could someone clarify this for me?
Here’s the deal: Microsoft’s whole free upgrade to Windows 10 thing officially ended back in July 2016, but here’s the twist: it kinda didn’t. If you have a legit Windows 7 or 8/8.1 license, you can still use the Media Creation Tool to upgrade to Windows 10 without paying. Microsoft doesn’t really advertise this, but it still works like a charm. They don’t seem to care much about enforcing a cut-off for it.
Now, if you’re installing Windows 10 fresh without a prior license, that’s a lil’ trickier. You can technically install and use it without activating it. It’ll work fine, but you’ll get that annoying watermark on the bottom-right of your screen, and personalization options like changing wallpapers will be locked. It’s totally usable though — no one’s gonna send you to Microsoft jail.
So short answer: If you’ve got an older license, you can still upgrade for free. No license? You can use it unactivated, but expect some inconveniences. Want it legit and squeaky clean? You gotta pay up. Microsoft ain’t handing out freebies forever, even if they occasionally forget to close some doors.
Yeah, so technically Windows 10 isn’t ‘free,’ but it’s also not like Microsoft has completely closed the loopholes. If you’re rocking a valid Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 license, what @reveurdenuit said is true—you can still upgrade using the Media Creation Tool. Microsoft doesn’t really make a fuss about it, so it’s still a sneaky-but-legit way.
However, if no prior license is in the picture, I’d honestly just explore using it unactivated for a while. Sure, there’s a watermark, and it limits customization, but it’s functional and doesn’t just stop working. Activation seems like such a cash grab for basic users. Though if you’re worried about the legal side or just being locked out of certain updates/features someday, it might be worth buying.
One thing worth tossing in here: check sites for heavily discounted legit licenses. There are third-party sellers (yeah, yeah, always risky) where people find Windows 10 Pro keys for super cheap. Just be careful and read reviews first; not all are trustworthy.
Also, don’t forget the option of exploring Linux if you’re done dealing with Microsoft entirely. Free, customizable, and zero watermarks, ever. Take that, Microsoft.