Upgrading from Windows 7 to a more recent version like Windows 10 or Windows 11 can be a great way to breathe new life into an older PC, and it's perfect you're thinking about it now because, in terms of security and functionality, older operating systems like Windows 7 aren't supported anymore.
First, regarding the upgrade key: historically, Microsoft did allow users to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 for free using their existing product keys, even after the official free upgrade period ended in 2016. This upgrade path wasn't publicly promoted by Microsoft as ongoing, but many users have reported success with this method even years later. Here’s how you can try it:
Backup Your Data: Before doing anything, ensure you have a complete backup of your important files. There are many free and paid backup solutions, or you could simply copy critical data to an external storage device.
Check System Requirements: Ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 10 or Windows 11. Windows 11 has stricter requirements, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, which might not be supported on much older hardware.
Download Windows 10: Go to the Windows 10 download page and use the Media Creation Tool to create installation media or directly upgrade your existing system. You’ll have the option to retain files, though it’s still recommended to back everything up just in case.
Installation: During the installation, choose "I don’t have a product key" (if your existing Windows 7 isn’t digital). When asked for a license key post-installation, you can try entering your Windows 7 key.
Regarding whether it's better to buy a new license or a new PC, it somewhat depends on your current hardware specifications. If your PC is struggling with performance on Windows 7, upgrading to Windows 10 or 11 might worsen the experience. In that scenario, a new PC might be a more valuable investment. New computers not only come with the latest Windows but are also equipped with hardware that will be compatible with future updates and applications.
Buying a standalone Windows license can be costly, especially if you need to eventually upgrade hardware. Factor in how long you plan to use the PC and what tasks you need it for.
For technical advice, reputable sources like PCWorld or TechRadar frequently discuss upgrade paths and risks involved. It can be helpful to read their latest guides for more complicated scenarios or to confirm successful upgrade stories from other users.
Have you considered what applications you utilize the most and if they might necessitate newer hardware as well? If some apps are particularly resource-intensive, that could influence whether an entirely new system would serve you better in the long run. Let me know if you need more information on any of these steps or considerations!