Upgrading to a new version of Windows long cost you money. Until Windows 8, if you wanted the latest version — say, moving from Windows XP or Windows Vista — you had to purchase a new license or buy an upgrade at a discount. Windows 10, however, was a different story; Microsoft offered free upgrades for so many users. But with the release of Windows 11, those free upgrade paths are beginning to close.
The Era of Free Upgrades: Windows 10 and Beyond
With Windows 10, Microsoft changed its tune – turning it into a free upgrade from earlier versions, such as Windows 7 and 8. Originally good for 1 year (which would mean it’s long since expired), you can still technically get this today through various workarounds. Users have been able to get a genuine Windows 10 license for free using methods such as obtaining an older Windows XP key, or taking advantage of the accessibility features.
Windows 11: New OS, Old Paywalls
However, when Windows 11 launched in 2021, Microsoft used the same free upgrade model to Windows 10 users already. You could upgrade seamlessly, preserving your original license or perform a clean installation with an old key from Windows 7, 8, or 10. But as of 2024, Microsoft has officially closed down this free upgrade path for good.
But if you wish to move to Windows 11, you will have to buy a valid license now. Upgrading from Windows 10 or starting over really only comes with activating the OS and removing such things as the operating watermark and various limitations (such as restricted customization options) included with an unlicensed install. These can only be achieved with a legitimate Windows 11 key.
Can You Use Windows For Free?
While you can no longer sign up for free upgrades, there are still ways to use Windows without paying the price—sort of. If you were eager to try the new Windows 11 and don’t mind disabling some features, you can install the Insider Preview version of the operating system. But these are beta releases, so might have bugs and/or performance issues.
Or you may find yourself buying cheap, reuse keys online for next to nothing. These keys are in a legal gray area, and sold via websites exploiting European Union laws. They are not fully legitimate, but they will let you activate Windows without any issues as little as 3 euros.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft has officially ended its free Windows 11 upgrade, but if you don’t want to spend your own cash, there are still a few ways to upgrade Windows 10 for free. But with its USD 100 license price tag, you may want to skip on Windows, especially if you can continue to use Windows Insider builds or you find discounted keys on the web—that too entails a certain degree of risk.
In order to make the best decision on whether you should upgrade or stay with your current setup, you should stay abreast on the latest changes.