Microsoft has recently announced that users can no longer activate Windows 11 and 10 installations with Windows 7 and 8 product keys. This means that a Windows 7/8 key will not be able to activate a Windows 11/10 installation.
To recall, Microsoft launched Windows 10 in 2015. At the time, it promised to provide users with a free upgrade to Windows 10 within one year. This offer ended on July 29, 2016. In fact, even after the offer ends, users can still upgrade to Windows 10 for free. However, the company did not say this publicly.
Even after Windows 11 was released, the free upgrade channel remained open. This allowed anyone with compatible hardware to get the upgrade. However, the company has now closed that option.
Why can’t Windows 7/8 product keys activate Windows 11/10?
The main reason why Windows 7 and 8 product keys can no longer activate Windows 11 and 10 is that Microsoft has stopped supporting these older operating systems. This means that they are no longer providing security updates or technical support for these systems. As a result, they have also stopped allowing users to activate newer operating systems with older product keys.
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What can you do if you are affected by this change?
If you are affected by this change, there are a few things you can do. First, you can purchase a new product key for Windows 11 or 10. This will allow you to activate your installation and receive security updates and technical support from Microsoft. You can purchase a product key directly from Microsoft or from a third-party retailer.
Another option is to upgrade your computer to a newer operating system that is still supported by Microsoft. This will allow you to continue receiving security updates and technical support without having to purchase a new product key. You can also upgrade to Windows 11 or 10 if your computer meets the minimum system requirements for these operating systems.
If you are unable to purchase a new product key or upgrade your computer, you can still continue to use your current operating system. However, you will not receive any security updates or technical support from Microsoft, which could leave your computer vulnerable to security threats.
Conclusion
Microsoft has stopped allowing users to activate Windows 11 and 10 installations with Windows 7 and 8 product keys. This is because they have stopped supporting these older operating systems. If you are affected by this change, you can purchase a new product key, upgrade your computer to a newer operating system, or continue to use your current operating system without receiving security updates or technical support.
