Windows 11: Free upgrade with old Windows 7 and 8 keys ended

Microsoft The ability to use Windows 7 and Windows 8 activation keys for free upgrades to the latest versions has been blocked of the operating system. The change started to be noticed by users this Thursday (28).

In practice this means: If you’re using Windows 7 or 8, you can’t upgrade to Windows 10 or Windows 11 for free. using old generation series. In this case, one of the solutions is to purchase the license of the latest version.

The update began rolling out to original Windows 7/8 key owners in July 2015, at no additional charge.When Windows 10 was released. In this way, the user was able to install the then new generation software using the serial number he already had.

this service would officially close on July 29, 2016As highlighted by Microsoft in a statement. However, the free update, including Windows 11, continued to be offered until a few days ago on computers that met the minimum installation requirements.

What caused the change?

The motivation for the end of the free upgrade offer from Windows 7/8 to Windows 10/11 was not detailed by the Redmond giantbut this may be related to older versions of the operating system not being supported. Without security updates and technical support, computers are vulnerable to cyber threats.

Despite the service being shut down, Some users are still able to upgrade to Windows 11 22H2 from the stable version of Windows 7according to website desk organizerThe upgrade no longer appears to be available in the Canary channel, affecting testers. Complete blocking of the service will occur within the next few days.

On the other hand, Free upgrade opportunity from Windows 10 to Windows 11 continuesAs Microsoft states, as long as the user has an original activation key and a compatible computer.