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To upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10, follow these high-level steps based on the provided information:
- Make sure Windows 7 has Service Pack 1 installed.
- The upgrade-related updates and tools in the context require Windows 7 SP1.
- Run Windows Update and install all important updates.
- This includes prerequisite updates such as Service Pack 1 and later rollups that add Windows 10 upgrade capabilities.
- Use Windows Update as described in the articles to obtain the relevant upgrade-related updates.
- Check disk space and remove nonessential software.
- Outdated or unnecessary applications can block an upgrade.
- Uninstall nonessential software:
- Go to Control Panel → Programs → Programs and Features.
- Select the program and choose Uninstall, then confirm with Yes.
- Ensure there is enough free disk space:
- Select the Start button, search for File Explorer (Windows Explorer in Windows 7), open it.
- Select Computer and check available space under Hard Disk Drives.
- If space is low, follow the guidance in "Tips to free up drive space on your PC" (linked in the context) to clean up files.
- Use the Windows 10 upgrade path.
- The upgrade paths documentation states that a Windows version upgrade can be performed from an earlier supported release to a newer supported release using Windows Setup.
- Work with the standard Windows 10 setup media or tools provided by Microsoft (as referenced in the Windows upgrade paths article) to perform an in-place upgrade from Windows 7 SP1 to a supported Windows 10 version.
- Start the upgrade and choose to keep files and apps (if available).
- When running Windows Setup from within Windows 7, select the option to keep personal files and apps if it is offered and supported for the chosen path.
- After upgrade, complete activation and updates.
- Once Windows 10 is installed, connect to the internet so it can activate and then run Windows Update again to install the latest cumulative updates.
If Windows 7 is out of support or the device does not meet current requirements, the upgrade path article recommends working with an account representative or using supported media and keys as applicable.
References: