
However, in our tests, if Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 is activated, you do not need to have a serial code (product key) for Windows 10.

How to customize your Windows 10 installation if you don’t keep your personal files and settings

Upgrade from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 Use the Media Creation Tool to download Windows 10 and customize the upgrade Download and run the Media Creation Tool app What you should know before you upgrade from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 to Windows 10.If you installed Windows 7 or Windows 8 yourself, you’ll want to find the license key you purchased. This key may be printed on a sticker on your PC’s case or on your laptop. We also encourage you to find your Windows 7 (or Windows 8) key, just in case you need it.

The upgrade process shouldn’t erase your files unless you choose to erase them, but it’s always a good idea to have a current backup-especially when you’re performing a major operating system upgrade. RELATED: You Can Still Get Windows 10 for Free With a Windows 7, 8, or 8.1 Key Back Up Before Upgradingīefore you get started, we recommend you back up your files. We wouldn’t worry about it for home PCs, but organizations should likely contact their Microsoft licensing partner for more details. If you have Windows 7 PCs in your business, Microsoft may not consider you compliant with the terms of its licensing agreement after using this method to upgrade your business PCs.

Update: Note that we can’t speak to the business licensing side of things here.
