How to Update Your Computer to Windows 10

Windows 10 is no longer receiving updates, but you can still install it

Windows 10 reached the end of support on October 10, 2023, which means Microsoft stopped releasing security patches and bug fixes. If your computer is running an older version of Windows — Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1 — you can still download and install Windows 10, though you will not receive new updates after that date. Most computers made after 2012 can run Windows 10.

The update process differs depending on whether you are upgrading from an older Windows version or performing a fresh installation. Both routes take between 20 minutes and two hours, depending on your internet speed and how much data is on your computer. You will need at least 20 gigabytes of free disk space and a stable internet connection.

Key Takeaways

Windows 10 stopped receiving security updates in October 2023, so upgrading to Windows 11 is safer if your computer meets the requirements.
You can still install Windows 10 from Microsoft's website using the Media Creation Tool, which works on computers running Windows 7, 8, or 8.1.
An in-place upgrade keeps your files and programs but takes longer and sometimes leaves behind old system files; a clean install is faster but requires backing up your data first.
You will need a product key to activate Windows 10 after installation, which you can purchase from Microsoft or sometimes find on a sticker on your computer if it came with Windows pre-installed.

Check whether your computer can run Windows 10

Windows 10 has modest hardware requirements, and most computers from the last decade meet them. Your computer needs at least a 1 gigahertz processor, 1 gigabyte of RAM (2 gigabytes for the 64-bit version), and 20 gigabytes of available hard drive space. If you are unsure whether your computer qualifies, you can run the PC Health Check tool from Microsoft's website, which scans your system and reports back in a few seconds.

The main reason a computer cannot run Windows 10 is an older processor or a lack of RAM. If your computer is more than 15 years old, it may not have the necessary processor features. If the Health Check tool says your computer is not compatible, Windows 11 is unlikely to work either — you would need to stick with your current version or consider a new computer.

Back up your files before you start

Whether you choose an in-place upgrade or a clean install, backing up your important files first is the safest step. If something goes wrong during the update, you will still have copies of your documents, photos, and other data. You can back up to an external hard drive, a USB flash drive, or a cloud service like OneDrive or Google Drive.

An in-place upgrade (keeping your files and programs) is less risky than a clean install, but backups still matter. A clean install wipes your hard drive, so backups are essential if you choose that route. Set aside 30 minutes to an hour for backing up, depending on how much data you have.

Perform an in-place upgrade from Windows 7, 8, or 8.1

An in-place upgrade installs Windows 10 over your current version while keeping your files, programs, and settings. This is the simpler route for most people. Go to Microsoft's Windows 10 download page and select "Update now" to download the Windows 10 Installation Assistant. Run the installer, and it will guide you through the process step by step.

The installer will check your system, download Windows 10 files (which can take 30 minutes to an hour depending on your internet speed), and then install the new operating system. Your computer will restart several times during this process. Once installation is complete, you will be asked to enter a product key to activate Windows 10. If you do not have a key, you can purchase one from Microsoft or use a key from a previous Windows installation if you have one.

After the upgrade finishes, Windows 10 will keep your files and most of your programs, but some older software may not work. You may need to reinstall certain programs or download updated versions. Check your installed programs list and test the ones you use most often.

Perform a clean install using installation media

A clean install wipes your hard drive and installs Windows 10 from scratch. This is faster than an in-place upgrade and removes old system files that can slow down your computer, but it requires you to back up your data first and reinstall your programs afterward. Use this route if your computer is running slowly or if you want a fresh start.

Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's Windows 10 download page. You will need a USB flash drive with at least 8 gigabytes of space. Insert the USB drive into your computer, run the Media Creation Tool, and follow the prompts to create installation media. Once the USB drive is ready, restart your computer and boot from the USB drive (you may need to press a key like F12 or Delete during startup to access the boot menu). Follow the Windows 10 installation wizard, select your hard drive, and let the installer complete the process.

After installation, you will need to reinstall your programs and restore your backed-up files. This takes longer than an in-place upgrade but results in a cleaner system.

Activate Windows 10 with a product key

After Windows 10 is installed, you need to activate it with a product key. If your computer came with Windows pre-installed, the key may be on a sticker on the back or bottom of your device. If you are upgrading from Windows 7, 8, or 8.1, your old product key may work, though this depends on your version and license type.

If you do not have a key, you can purchase one from Microsoft's website or from authorized retailers. A full Windows 10 license costs around $100 to $140, depending on whether you choose the Home or Pro version. Home is sufficient for most people; Pro adds features like remote desktop and encryption that business users need.

To activate Windows 10, go to Settings, select "Update & Security," then "Activation," and choose "Change product key." Enter your key and follow the prompts. Activation usually completes within a few minutes.

Troubleshoot common update problems

If the update fails or your computer does not start after installation, restart your computer and try the update again. Most temporary failures resolve on a second attempt. If you see an error code, note it and search for that code on Microsoft's support website, which provides specific solutions for each error.

If your computer gets stuck during installation, force it to shut down by holding the power button for 10 seconds, then restart it. Windows 10 will usually resume the installation process. If installation fails multiple times, try the clean install route instead, which is more reliable than an in-place upgrade when problems occur.

If Windows 10 installs but your internet or graphics do not work, you likely need to install drivers for your hardware. Go to your computer manufacturer's support website, enter your model number, and download the latest drivers for Windows 10. Install them and restart your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update to Windows 10 for free?

Microsoft no longer offers free upgrades to Windows 10. If your computer came with Windows 7, 8, or 8.1, you will need to purchase a Windows 10 product key. Prices typically range from $100 to $140 depending on the version. Some retailers occasionally offer discounts.

What happens if I do not activate Windows 10?

Windows 10 will continue to work without activation, but you will see a watermark on your desktop saying "Activate Windows now" and you will not receive updates. Activation is required to use all features and receive security patches. You can activate at any time by purchasing a product key.

Will my programs work after I update to Windows 10?

Most programs work on Windows 10, but older software may not be compatible. An in-place upgrade keeps your programs, but some may need updating. A clean install requires you to reinstall everything. Test your most important programs after the update completes.

How long does the update take?

An in-place upgrade typically takes one to two hours, including download time. A clean install is usually faster, around 30 minutes to an hour for installation alone, but you will need additional time to reinstall programs and restore files. Internet speed and computer age affect the total time.

Should I update to Windows 11 instead?

Windows 11 is newer and receives current security updates, while Windows 10 stopped receiving updates in October 2023. However, Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements and may not work on older computers. Check if your computer meets Windows 11 requirements before deciding between the two versions.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.