Microsoft Ends Free Upgrade for Windows 7 and 8 Users: What You Need to Know

September 29, 2023

{Windows 10 ISO for Build 19044.1288 & Windows 11 ISO for Build ...}

Source: Wccftech

Microsoft has surprised users by closing the loophole that allowed Windows 7 and 8 users to upgrade to Windows 10 or 11 at no cost. Let’s take a closer look at this unexpected development.

The Backstory: A Free Upgrade for Windows 7 and 8 Users

{5 reasons to switch to Windows 11 (and 5 reasons not to) | PCWorld}

Source: PC World

When Windows 10 was first launched, Microsoft offered a free upgrade to Windows 7 and 8 users. This offer was originally meant to last for a year, but it continued to be available even after the deadline expired.

Essentially, anyone with a valid Windows 7 or 8 key could upgrade their PC to Windows 10. This also applied to Windows 11, as long as the system requirements were met.

Microsoft Closes the Loophole

Source: PC World

However, Microsoft has now officially announced that this unofficial upgrade path is no longer available. The company stated, “Microsoft’s free upgrade offer for Windows 10 / 11 ended July 29, 2016. The installation path to obtain the Windows 7 / 8 free upgrade is now removed as well. Upgrades to Windows 11 from Windows 10 are still free.”

The Current Situation: Upgrade While You Still Can

{Windows 11 vs. Windows 10: is the upgrade worth it? | Digital Trends}

Source: Digital Trends

While an upgrade is technically still possible as of now, this change has been implemented in Windows 11 preview builds and will likely be present in the final release version soon.

If you are still using Windows 7 or 8 and want to take advantage of the free upgrade, it’s essential to act quickly. There is a chance that the upgrade may no longer be available by the time you read this.

Analysis: A Surprising Move by Microsoft

{windows 11 surprise - Microsoft Community Hub}

Source: Microsoft Tech Community

Many believed that Microsoft would never close this loophole, considering the free upgrade has been available for over seven years. It was assumed that Microsoft was content with allowing Windows 7 and 8 users to upgrade at no cost, possibly to encourage adoption of newer Windows versions.

However, Microsoft’s recent decision suggests that this is no longer a concern for the company. The reason behind keeping the loophole open for so long remains a mystery.

In conclusion, if you have been considering upgrading from Windows 7 or 8, it’s advisable to make the move sooner rather than later. The opportunity for a free upgrade may soon disappear.