How to upgrade to Windows 10 from Windows 7. Get your PC ready in one day!

Although it may sound harsh, Microsoft has pulled the plug on Windows 7, ending all support for [1] software updates, [2] security patches, and [3] technical assistance for any issues. If you're still clinging to the classic operating system, it's time to let go. There's no reason not to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10. Since January 2020, all Windows 7 users have joined the Windows 10 market, adjusting to what is now the safest, fastest, and most user-centric Windows OS available.

With that in mind, it's time to consult a comprehensive user guide to get your PC ready for the Windows 7 to Windows 10 transition. This article answers all your questions about upgrading to Windows 10 on your existing device or new PC/laptop, and what you need to do before the end of Windows 7 support. By following these simple steps and using some essential Windows 10 upgrade tools, you can ensure a smooth migration from Windows 7 to Windows 10.

The recommended Windows 10 upgrade utilities will certainly help users migrate smoothly from Windows 7 to Windows 10 without any upgrade issues or data loss. They include:

Migrate to a new PC to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10

To take advantage of the latest hardware capabilities and avoid potential compatibility issues with both hardware and software caused by older devices, we strongly recommend upgrading to Windows 10 by moving to a new computer with Windows 10 pre-installed. If you prefer to stick with your old device and would like to upgrade it in-place to Windows 10, you should first check whether your old machine is compatible with Windows 10, and then proceed with the upgrade steps if it is.

1. Move to a new PC with Windows 10 preinstalled

These days, when you buy a new computer, it usually comes with Windows 10 already installed, so you don't have to do that yourself. In that case, your main concern is transferring your data and applications from the old computer to the new one.

With Todo PCTrans, you can perform an in-place upgrade on Windows 10 without having to reinstall all your apps. This one-click PC transfer tool can copy installed software, files, folders, and account settings from one computer to another, with or without a network connection.

There are three ways to use the Todo PCTrans tool to move your data to a new Windows 10 PC.

• Computer to Computer: Transfer apps, data, accounts, and settings between two networked computers that are on the same local area network.
• Image Transfer: Create an image file and transfer it to a computer with Windows 10 without using a network. It can also serve as a backup.
• App Migration: Move software from one drive to another local drive when running out of disk space. For example, safely move programs from C drive to D drive in Windows 10.

Now, download this ultimate PC transfer tool to start your Windows 10 upgrade.

Step 1: Run Todo PCTrans on both computers

Download Todo PCTrans, and you'll see the PC-to-PC interface.

Step 2: Choose the transfer direction - from the old computer or to the new one

"This is a new computer" - Transfer all data from the old remote computer to the current new one.

"This is the old computer" - Transfer all data from the current old device to the new one.

Select transfer direction

Step 3: Connect the two computers

1. Select the target computer to connect to by IP address or device name, then click "Connect."

2. Type the target computer's login password, then click OK to confirm.

If the target computer is not listed, you can also click Add Computer to manually connect by entering the IP address or device name of the target computer.

Step 4: Select apps, programs, and software to transfer to the target computer

1. You choose and select what to transfer from the current computer to the target computer.

2. After selecting the apps and data you need, click on “Transfer” to start the process.

Select the apps to transfer from your PC to another PC:

2. Moving to a brand new PC without an operating system

A small number of users buy barebones computers for specific reasons, like cutting costs or installing Windows 10 themselves. In this case, upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 10 in full involves two steps: first, doing a clean install of Windows 10; then, transferring data and apps from the old Windows 7 computer to the new one with a PC transfer tool.

How to do a clean install

Use the following steps to create installation media (USB flash drive or DVD) to do a clean install of Windows 10. First, you'll need a license to install Windows 10.

Before downloading multimedia, make sure you:

Here's what you'll need: 1. An internet connection 2. A computer, USB device, or external hard drive with enough space to download the files 3. A blank USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of free space, or a blank DVD (and a DVD burner) to create installation media 4. If the ISO image is too large, you'll need a dual-layer (DL) DVD for burning, when using a DVD 5. Hardware that meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 10.

How to Transfer Data from an Old Computer to a New One

After the system installation is complete, you can start using Todo PCTrans to migrate your data and programs. Refer to the steps above for details.

If you want your new computer to perform at its best, proper disk management is an important part of the equation. Tools like Partition Master offer a smart, easy, and comprehensive solution for disk management.

It allows you to partition your hard drive easily and make the most out of your disk space by resizing, moving, merging, creating, formatting, deleting, and cloning partitions. Apart from these basic disk organization features, this partition manager also supports many advanced operations, such as converting FAT32 to NTFS, changing disk style from MBR to GPT, migrating OS to SSD, and more. Yes, all these practical functions are integrated into this software. Don't miss this useful tool.

# Upgrade to Windows 10 on your current PC

While Microsoft and I encourage you to move to a new Windows 10 PC, you may choose to stay with your old one.

Since you've decided to go ahead, you can upgrade to Windows 10 as described here.

Check if your old PC meets the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 10

To begin the process of upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 10, your first step is to check whether your old PC meets the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 10.

Here are the steps to check the hardware info on an old computer in American English: 1. **Power up the computer**: Make sure it's turned on and connected to a power source. 2. **Enter BIOS**: - For most computers, restart and press `F2`, `Delete`, or `Esc` during startup to enter BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). The key may vary by brand, sometimes it's `F10` or `F12`. - If unsure, look for a brief message at the bottom of the screen as the computer boots, telling you which key to press for setup. 3. **Browse BIOS info**: - In BIOS, find "System Information," "Hardware Overview," "System Summary," or something similar. This will display basic hardware details like motherboard model, CPU type, and RAM size. - Note: BIOS interfaces differ by manufacturer, so it might take a moment to locate the relevant info. 4. **View processor (CPU) details**: - Look for "Processor" or "CPU" in BIOS, which will list the processor model and speed. 5. **Check memory (RAM)**: - Search for "Memory" or "DRAM Configuration." This will show the total installed RAM and details about each RAM stick. 6. **Examine hard drive details**: - Check "Storage" or "HDD Information" to see the hard drive model, capacity, and other data. 7. **Inspect the graphics card**: - In some BIOSes, you might find integrated graphics info. However, more detailed graphics details are usually viewed within the operating system. 8. **Save and exit**: - When done, select "Save and Exit" or "Exit Without Saving" (if no changes made), then hit `Enter`. The computer will reboot back into the OS. 9. **Use OS tools**: - On Windows, utilize the "System Information" tool (search for it or find it in Control Panel) for more hardware specifics. - On a Mac, open "About This Mac," click "More Info," then choose "System Report." - On Linux, use command-line tools like `lshw`, `dmidecode`, or `cat /proc/cpuinfo`. 10. **Utilize third-party software**: - For even more detail, download and use free hardware detection tools, such as Speccy (Windows), HWMonitor, or About This Mac (Mac). With these steps, you should be able to gather the main hardware details of your old computer.

Step 1: Right-click on "My Computer" and select "Properties."

Step 2. In the window that appears, check the processor and RAM information under “System.”

Step 3: Click on "Device Manager" to see more details about your CPU, graphics card, audio, and more.

Step 4. To check your disk space, right-click on "My Computer," select "Manage," and then click on "Disk Management."

Here, you can check if you have enough space on your Windows 7 C drive to install Windows 10.

Preparations

1. Find your Windows product key

A Windows 7 product key is usually found on a small sticker inside the box on a pamphlet, or on a “Certificate of Authenticity” sticker on the case of your computer, as shown:

If you no longer have the product packaging or can't find your product key, follow the steps in this article to find the Microsoft-provided Windows product key.

2. Back up your important data from Windows 7 to an external hard drive

To avoid unnecessary data loss when upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 10, it's advisable to back up all your important data to an external hard drive beforehand. For this, you'll need an external hard drive with sufficient storage and reliable Windows backup software to help you back up your Windows 7 data.

Upgrade to Windows 10 on an older PC

With the end of support for Windows 7, some users might not be able to check for updates on their PCs to perform an in-place upgrade. As such, you can choose a suitable method to complete the upgrade process on your PC:

1. Upgrade to Windows 10 in place

Microsoft also released its final security update for it on January 14, 2020, so if you follow the steps above, you'll be able to check and install the final security update for Windows 7, but not the Windows 10 ISO. How to Check for Windows Updates: Go to Control Panel > All Control Panel Items > Windows Update > System and Security > Windows Update.

As we mentioned, support for Windows 7 has ended, and the free upgrade path from Windows 7 to Windows 10 officially closed on July 29, 2016. This means that you can no longer upgrade directly from Windows 7 to Windows 10. Fortunately, you can still manually install Windows 10 for free on your old computer using the Media Creation Tool mentioned below.

#2. Upgrade in-place from Windows 7 to Windows 10

The process is similar to a clean installation of Windows 10 on a computer, as shown earlier on this page. Or, you can follow this quick guide:

Video tutorial from Pureinfotech on YouTube:

Step-by-step guide:

Step 1. Use your Windows 7 browser to visit the Microsoft website's Download Windows 10 page.

Step 2: Under Create Windows 10 installation media, click the Download tool now link and run the media file once it's downloaded.

Click the image to download the tool immediately:

Step 3: Click “Upgrade this PC now.”

Step 4. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Windows 10 on your old computer.

Make sure to choose “Keep personal files and apps” during the process.

Step 5: Wait for the process to finish, then restart your computer and begin using Windows 10.

More Tips - Windows 10 Activation and Performance Tuning

Regarding Windows 10 activation:

When you successfully install or upgrade to Windows 10 on your device, you can use your old Windows 7 product key to activate Windows 10 by following these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.

2. Enter your old product key to activate Windows 10.

Note: If you receive the message "This product key doesn't work. Please re-enter it, or try a different key," you might need to replace it with a new Windows 10 key that you purchase from Microsoft. You can visit this page to buy a Windows product key.

Optimizing Windows 10 performance:

After installing Windows 10 on your Windows 7 PC or getting a new computer, you can boot it up and enjoy all the new features.
However, some people might find that Windows 10 is running very slow or freezing for no apparent reason.
The best solution to this problem is to use a reliable tool to optimize Windows 10.

With the help of the tools Partition Master and its hard disk partitioning and system optimization features, the job can be done with just a few clicks. See via the link how to optimize your computer's performance:

• Extend System C Drive in Windows 10
• Speed Up Windows 10 Performance

"People also ask,"

1. Can I still upgrade to Windows 10 for free from Windows 7?

No. The free upgrade offer to Windows 10 through the Get Windows 10 (GWX) app ended on July 29, 2016. In addition, the free offer for Windows 10 for customers using assistive technologies ended on December 31, 2017. To get Windows 10, you'll need to purchase a full version of the software to upgrade your device.

**How much does it cost to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10?**

Since its formal launch a year ago, Windows 10 has been offered as a free upgrade to users of Windows 7 and 8.1. As of today, that free ride is over. Technically speaking, if you want to upgrade, you are now supposed to pay $119 for the home version of Windows 10, or $199 for the professional version.

**3. How do I upgrade my Windows 7 to Windows 10?** To upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10, follow these steps: 1. **Check system compatibility**: First, ensure your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 10. Generally, you'll need at least a 1 GHz processor, 1 GB (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit) of RAM, 16 GB (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit) of available hard disk space, and a graphics device compatible with DirectX 9. 2. **Create installation media**: Visit Microsoft's official Windows 10 download page (https://www.microsoft.com/zh-cn/software-download/windows10), click "Update now," and use the "Windows 10 Upgrade Assistant" tool to create a Windows 10 installation USB drive. 3. **Backup your data**: Before upgrading, make sure to back up your important files and data in case something goes wrong. 4. **Start the upgrade**: Insert the created USB drive into your computer, then change the boot order in your BIOS settings to start from the USB drive. Once booted, follow the on-screen instructions and select the "Upgrade this PC now" option. 5. **Wait for the installation to complete**: The upgrade process may take some time, and your computer will restart several times. Be patient and avoid interrupting the power during the process. 6. **Activate Windows 10**: After the upgrade is finished, Windows 10 should automatically activate. If your Windows 7 was genuine and activated, Windows 10 should also be activated. If you encounter issues, you can manually activate it through "Settings" > "Update & Security" > "Activation." Please note that Microsoft might have ended its official support for the free upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10. You might now need to purchase a Windows 10 product key to complete the upgrade.

If you run Windows 7/8/8.1 (Home or Pro, properly activated), you can upgrade to Windows 10 as I did.

**4. What's the difference between an in-place upgrade and a clean install?**

“A clean install” means installing an operating system on a computer that currently has none. An “in-place upgrade” means that you already have an operating system, and you acquire the necessary compatibility software to update it to a new version.

To do a clean install, you have to download the correct version of Windows 10 for your system upgrade manually. Technically, upgrading through Windows Update is the simplest and safest way to get to Windows 10. But the upgrade process can go awry.

5. Can I still use Windows 7 after 2020?

Yes, you can continue to use Windows 7 after January 14, 2020. However, your PC will still start and run, but Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, software updates, security updates, or fixes. We recommend that you upgrade to Windows 10 or get a new device with Windows 10 pre-installed.

Frequently Asked Questions from Microsoft

Source: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/4057281/windows-7-support-ended-on-january-14-2020

What does “end of support” mean to me?

After January 14, 2020, computers running Windows 7 will no longer receive security updates. So it's important to upgrade to a modern operating system such as Windows 10, which can provide the latest security updates to help protect you and your data from today's advanced threats. In addition, Microsoft Customer Service and Support will no longer be available for Windows 7. Also, some games (such as Internet Backgammon and Internet Chess) and the TV guide in Windows Media Center will stop working after January 2020.

What should I do?

For most Windows 7 users, the best choice will be to move to a new device with Windows 10 pre-installed. Today's computers are faster, lighter, more powerful, and more secure – and they cost on average less than a computer did eight years ago. Our guide can help you choose a new one with just a few easy steps. Check out the overview page for more information.

Can I upgrade my existing computer to Windows 10?

To take advantage of the latest hardware capabilities, we recommend that you upgrade to a new device with Windows 10. As an alternative, you can also upgrade a compatible Windows 7 PC by purchasing and installing the full version of the software. For more information, see the Windows 10 Upgrade FAQ.

How can I upgrade to Windows 10 for free?

The free offer to upgrade to Windows 10 ended on July 29, 2016. To get Windows 10, you'll need to buy a new device or, if you have a compatible PC, buy a full version of the software to upgrade your current device. We recommend not installing Windows 10 on older devices because some devices running Windows 7 aren't compatible with Windows 10 or might have limited functionality.

What happens if I continue to use Windows 7?

While your PC will continue to work, it will become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Your PC will continue to start and run, but Microsoft will no longer provide software updates, including security updates.

Can Windows 7 still be activated after January 14, 2020?

While you will still be able to install and activate Windows 7 after support ends, the operating system will become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses without essential security updates. After January 14, 2020, Microsoft strongly recommends that you move to Windows 10 instead of continuing to use Windows 7.

Will Internet Explorer be supported on Windows 7?

Support for Internet Explorer on devices running Windows 7 also ended on January 14, 2020. As a component of the Windows operating system, Internet Explorer follows the support lifecycle of the installed Windows operating system. For more information, see Lifecycle FAQ - Internet Explorer.

Will Microsoft Security Essentials still protect my PC after support ends?

Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) will continue to receive signature updates after January 14, 2020. However, the MSE platform will no longer be updated. Click here to learn more about Microsoft Security Essentials.

What if I'm running Windows 7 Enterprise?

If you use Windows in a work environment, we recommend that you first consult your IT department or refer to Windows 10 deployment resources for more information.

What about Windows 7 Embedded?

The dates for the end of support for Windows versions used in embedded devices like ATMs or fuel pumps might be different from those for Windows versions used on PC devices.

Yes, you can transfer your existing programs to a new Windows 10 PC. However, the process may vary depending on the type of programs you have and how they were installed. Here's a general approach: 1. **Backup**: First, backup all important data and files from your old computer. You can use external hard drives or cloud storage services for this. 2. **Programs with Installers**: For programs that came with installers (setup.exe files), you can simply download the installers again or find the original installation media (like CDs or DVDs). Once your new Windows 10 PC is set up, run the installers to reinstall the programs. 3. **Portable Programs**: Portable programs that don't require installation can usually be transferred directly. Just copy the program's folder from your old computer to a suitable location on your new one. 4. **Windows Store Apps**: If you've downloaded apps from the Microsoft Store, they should automatically sync to your new device when you sign in with the same Microsoft account. 5. **Registry and Settings**: Transferring program settings and registry entries can be complex and risky. It's generally recommended to reinstall programs and configure them anew on the new system. However, some tools like 'PCmover' or 'tools Todo PCTrans' can help migrate these, but they might require a fee. 6. ** activation**: Remember, you may need to reactivate some software on your new PC, especially if they're licensed per machine. Ensure you have the necessary licenses and keys. It's always a good idea to check the software vendor's website for specific instructions on migrating to a new computer. Some programs might not be compatible with Windows 10, so it's best to confirm compatibility before transferring.

For the best experience, we recommend doing a fresh installation of programs and apps on your new Windows 10 device. The Microsoft Store offers a variety of third-party apps that you can easily download and install. To open it on your Windows 10 computer, click the Microsoft Store icon on the Taskbar or search for "Microsoft Store" in the search box on the Taskbar.

For any software that's currently unavailable in the Microsoft Store, we recommend visiting the company's official website and downloading the version compatible with Windows 10 from there. In limited instances, some older software might not have an updated version compatible with Windows 10.

How will the end of support for Windows 7 affect my Microsoft Office apps?

Your experience may vary depending on which version of Office you're running. For more information, see End of support for Windows 7 and Office. It's important to know that Windows 7 itself is no longer receiving security updates, which puts your device at risk. Therefore, if you're running Microsoft Office on a Windows 7 computer, we recommend that you migrate to a new Windows 10 device.

**Why am I receiving notifications about Windows 7?**

Support for Windows 7 ended on January 14, 2020. If you're a Windows 7 user, you'll receive notifications reminding you that your device is no longer supported and won't receive security updates. We recommend that you upgrade to a new device with Windows 10. You can learn more about this notification here.

Conclusions

In short, PCs running Windows 7 will no longer receive security updates after January 14, 2020. You have plenty of reasons to move to Windows 10. But operating-system upgrades are never simple. To help you make the transition from Windows 7 to Windows 10 as smoothly as possible, we have extensive coverage of the topic. You can migrate to Windows 10 easily, using the guide above.