Upgrading your operating system can be a daunting task, especially when you’re transitioning from an older version like Windows 8 or 8.1 to Windows 10. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the entire process, step-by-step, ensuring you can upgrade without losing your files or applications. Whether you’re tech-savvy or a beginner, this guide is designed to make the process as smooth as possible.
Key Takeaways
- Ensure your Windows 8/8.1 is activated before attempting the upgrade.
- Use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge to download the Windows 10 ISO file without the Media Creation Tool.
- Follow the steps carefully to ensure you select the correct language and version of the ISO file.
Disclaimer
A quick disclaimer: Microsoft recently (September 2023) announced that while you can still upgrade from Windows 8/8.1 to Windows 10 for free, the upgrade no longer automatically activates Windows 10 using your Windows 8/8.1 key. As of October 2023, this method still works to upgrade your system, but you may need to purchase a new license key to activate Windows 10.
If you need a valid key, you can purchase a cheap Windows 10 Pro OEM license key, or check out my guide on how to activate Windows 10 & 11. Note: If you make a purchase through this link, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Step 1: Verify Your Windows Activation Status
Before upgrading, it’s crucial to confirm that your current version of Windows 8 or 8.1 is activated. Without activation, you won’t be able to upgrade to Windows 10. Here’s how:
- Right-click on the Start button.
- Select “System” from the menu.
- Check the Windows activation status at the bottom of the page.
If your Windows 8/8.1 isn’t activated or the Windows Upgrade process prompts you to enter a product key, you can try using one of the following keys.
Disclaimer: These keys are only to be used for the upgrade process and cannot be used for permanent activation. (Source: softwarekeep.com)
Windows 8:
NGXJ7-RWTT3-RYGP4-KTXTD-M7RDPVDGKG-N3B97-CC73Q-9H9FQ-Y4DHCBHM36-NC98B-C6BC6-PMHTC-V8MQPBH8M3-YJN8D-PWVTB-G3HCM-X4PK26PN82-R4BBH-XX8K2-DCK84-VMFDH967N4-R7KXM-CJKJB-BHGCW-CPKT7 (worked for me)BTNJ7-FFMBR-FF9BH-7QMJ9-H49T7HB39N-V9K6F-P436V-KWBTC-Q3R9V
Windows 8.1:
NTQ99-TJD7V-DVMBR-M9KP9-YDVQQJ4GXG-8RN8X-3K4HK-9GRWQ-C36VD334NH-RXG76-64THK-C7CKG-D3VPTKBN88-BYDXD-X6HQ7-3KHFC-W2M93HMCNV-VVBFX-7HMBH-CTY9B-B4FXYDDTRW-HNDHV-KP2J7-BJRGG-RRFX3GCRJD-8NW9H-F2CDX-CCM8D-9D6T9MNDGV-M6PKV-DV4DR-CYY8X-2YRXH
Step 2: Install Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge
To download the Windows 10 ISO file, you’ll need a modern browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. If you don’t have either installed:
- Download and install Google Chrome using Internet Explorer, which comes pre-installed on Windows 8/8.1.
- Visit the Google Chrome website and download the browser manually if the automatic download doesn’t start.
If you already have Chrome or Edge, you can skip this step.
Step 3: Check Your System and Language Settings
Before downloading the ISO file, you need to verify a few things about your current system:
- Right-click the Start button again and select “System.”
- Note whether your operating system is 64-bit or 32-bit.
Next, you’ll need to check your region and language settings:
- Right-click the Start button and select “Control Panel.”
- Set the view to either large or small icons.
- Scroll down and select “Region.”
- Check your language settings to determine whether you need the English (United States) or English (International) version of Windows 10.
Step 4: Download the Windows 10 ISO File
Now that your system is ready, follow these steps to download the Windows 10 ISO file:
- Open Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge and visit the Windows 10 software download page.
- Right-click anywhere on the page and select “Inspect.”
- Click on the three dots (ellipsis) menu in the inspect window, then select “More tools” followed by “Network conditions.”
- Deselect the checkbox for “User agent” and choose “BlackBerry BB10” from the dropdown menu.
- Reload the page (press F5) and you’ll see the option to download the Windows 10 ISO file directly.
- Select the appropriate product language based on your earlier check.
- Choose between the 32-bit or 64-bit version, depending on your system’s specification.
For detailed instructions on downloading the Windows 10 ISO file, check out these guides:
- How to Download the Windows 10 ISO Without Media Creation Tool
- How to Download Windows 10 ISO File from Microsoft
Step 5: Install Windows 10
Once the ISO file is downloaded:
- Locate the ISO file in your downloads folder and right-click on it.
- Select “Open with” and then choose “Windows Explorer.”
- Double-click the “Setup” application to start the installation process.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the upgrade.
During installation, you’ll be able to keep all your files and applications, provided you selected the correct language and version of the ISO file.
Final Steps: Post-Installation Checks
After installation, there are a few more steps to finalize your upgrade:
- Check for updates by right-clicking the Start button, selecting “Settings,” and going to “Update & Security.”
- Verify if your Windows is activated by selecting the “Activation” tab under “Update & Security.”
If Windows isn’t activated, it could be due to issues with the upgrade process or an invalid key. For more information on how to resolve this, check out my guide on how to activate Windows 10 & 11.
Conclusion
Upgrading from Windows 8 or 8.1 to Windows 10 doesn’t have to be complicated. By following this guide, you can transition smoothly while keeping all your files and applications intact. Make sure to double-check your settings and follow each step carefully to ensure a successful upgrade.
FAQs
Can I upgrade directly from Windows 8/8.1 to Windows 10 for free?
Yes, you can upgrade from Windows 8 or 8.1 to Windows 10 for free using the ISO file method. However, as of October 2023, while this method still works to upgrade your system, you may need to purchase a new license key to activate Windows 10.
What happens if my Windows 8/8.1 isn’t activated?
You must activate your Windows 8/8.1 before upgrading to Windows 10. Otherwise, the upgrade won’t be successful.
How long does the upgrade process take?
The upgrade can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over two hours, depending on your hardware.
Can I keep my files and apps after upgrading?
Yes, as long as you select the correct language and version of the Windows 10 ISO, you can keep your files and apps.
What if Windows 10 doesn’t activate after the upgrade?
You may need to purchase a Windows 10 product key if it doesn’t activate automatically.
The procedure described here can still be implemented in January 2025.
Thank you