This article originally discussed the approaching end of Windows 7 support. That deadline has passed: Microsoft ended standard Windows 7 support on 14 January 2020. It should not be treated as a currently supported operating system.
Do not follow an old upgrade offer
The earlier article suggested a Windows 7 key might activate a free Windows 10 upgrade. Do not rely on that route. Windows 10’s standard support also ended on 14 October 2025; special extended-support arrangements have their own eligibility and terms.
Plan the move around your work
List the applications, printers and other equipment you need. Check compatibility and the hardware requirements of the supported operating system you are considering. A licence, a compatible PC and an application upgrade may be separate costs.
Protect your information first
Back up your documents and any local mail or application data. Check that the backup can be read and that you have legitimate installation and licence information. Do not wipe the old computer before the replacement has been checked.
If an essential old application keeps you tied to Windows 7, ask a qualified support provider to assess the situation. Keeping the computer running is not the same as keeping it secure. Migration planning is more useful than a generic promise that every old PC can be upgraded.
Sources and further reading
Guidance checked 26 October 2026: Microsoft’s Windows end-of-support information.
Illustrations
