Windows 11 – free upgrade from WIN7 and WIN8 discontinued
Uncategorized Comments Off on Windows 11 – free upgrade from WIN7 and WIN8 discontinuedMicrosoft is implementing new restrictions on the capability for Windows 7/8 users to update to Windows 11. And most users using outdated WIN7 or WIN8 systems are on devices to old to support WIN10 or WIN11 effectively.
Microsoft Kills Free Windows 7 to Windows 11 Upgrade Option | PCMag
Windows Ends Installation Path for Free Windows 7/8 Upgrade (microsoft.com)
The option to upgrade to the latest version of Windows 11 for free using a Windows 7 or Windows 8 key is no longer available. The free upgrade path from Windows 7 to Windows 11 was more of a loophole. When Windows 10 launched, Microsoft allowed Windows 7/8 users to upgrade for free. That option was meant to end in 2016, but continued to work indefinitely without explanation. When Windows 11 launched, the same free upgrade path remained available. However, as Neowin reports, Microsoft posted a message on its Device Partner Center website earlier this month stating, “The installation path to obtain the Windows 7 / 8 free upgrade is now removed as well.” If you’re running Windows 10, then the upgrade to Windows 11 remains free as long as your hardware meets the minimum system requirements. And it seems a Windows 7/8 key still works as long as the Windows 11 version being upgraded to is 22H2 or older. Attempting to use one of those keys with the newer 24H2 build or subsequent builds in future won’t work.