How To Upgrade Windows 7 To Windows 10 Without Losing Data? Guide To Upgrade From Windows 7 To Windo

Posted by Aldo Pusey on Saturday, May 11, 2024

How to upgrade Windows 7 to Windows 10 without losing data?

Upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 10 using the in-place upgrade option is possible without losing any files or erasing the hard drive. However, it is important to confirm the hardware compatibility, purchase a Windows 10 license (if required), and create a backup before proceeding. Additionally, installing the “Windows 7 Service Pack 1” is necessary.

To prevent any issues during the installation process, it is recommended to uninstall security software and any outdated third-party programs. Disconnecting all hardware peripherals, including printers, phones, cameras, and external hard drives, is also advisable. This guide provides instructions on upgrading to Windows 10 from Windows 7, ensuring a smooth installation process.

Check requirements before upgrading to Windows 10 from Windows 7

To upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10, it is necessary to ensure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements:

  • Processor: 1GHz or faster CPU or System on a Chip (SoC).

  • RAM: 1GB requirement for 32-bit or 2GB for 64-bit.

  • Hard drive: 32GB clean install or new PC (16 GB for 32-bit or 20 GB for 64-bit existing installation).

  • Graphics: DirectX 9 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver.

  • Display resolution: 800×600 minimum requirement.

  • Networking: Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter.

  • Before upgrading to Windows 10, it is essential to have the most recent version of the operating system, which is “Windows 7 Service Pack 1”. In case you do not have it installed, you can download it from the provided link.

  • To check the version of Windows installed on your computer, you can use the keyboard shortcut “Windows key + R” to open the Run command, type in “winver,” and then press the OK button.

  • To upgrade a Windows 7 device to Windows 10, a valid Windows 10 product key is necessary. Although it is possible to use the existing Windows 7 product key, its effectiveness is uncertain.

Create backup before upgrading to Windows 10 from Windows 7

While the upgrade process to Windows 10 is generally considered safe, there is always a possibility of encountering issues. To prevent any problems, it is essential to create a complete backup that can be used to restore the system to its previous state if anything unexpected occurs. To create a full backup on Windows 7, you can connect an external hard drive and follow these steps:

  • Open the Control Panel.

  • Click on “System and Security.”

  • Click on “Backup and Restore.”

  • From the left pane, click on the “Create a system image” option.

  • Select the “On a hard disk” option and click the “Next” button.

  • Click the “Start backup” button.

  • When prompted to create a system repair disc, click the “No” button to decline. You can also use bootable media for Windows 10 or 7.

  • Click the “Close” button.

After following the aforementioned steps, the backup files will be saved on external storage. This backup can be used if any issues arise during the upgrade process. Apart from the system backup, it is also recommended to create a backup of important files and web browser settings, including favorites, passwords, and personal settings, to OneDrive or an external drive to restore them manually in case of any unexpected occurrences. If you require assistance, refer to this guide for a detailed process of creating a backup and restoring Windows 7 and files.

Upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10

Step 1. Go to Download Windows 10 page on Microsoft website via Windows 7 browser.  

Step 2. Under Create Windows 10 installation media, click “Download tool now” and run the media file after the downloading.

Step 3. Choose “Upgrade this PC now”.

Step 4. Follow the prompts to set up Windows 10 on your old PC.

Remember to tick “Keep personal files and apps” during the process.

Step 5. Wait for process to complete, then you may restart your computer and use Windows 10 by then.

Note that Windows 7 support officially ended on January 14, 2020. However, Extended Security Updates (ESU) are still available through specific volume licensing programs for Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise, and Professional for Embedded Systems editions until January 10, 2023. It’s important to keep in mind that Windows 10 will have support until October 14, 2025.

Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the Site.

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