How To Upgrade Windows 7 To 8.1 For Free

Screenshot by Dan Graziano/CNET

Microsoft routinely retires older versions of its Windows operating organization. Windows XP has officially been put out to pasture, while Windows Vista users are no longer receiving mainstream support (gratis patches and fixes). The company warned recently that mainstream support for Windows 7 will be coming to an end early on next twelvemonth. Microsoft is hoping to have all of its users drift to Windows 8.i, the latest version of its Windows operating system.

Depending on your current operating system, it can be a real hassle to switch to the latest version of Windows. Here's what yous need to know and how to switch from earlier versions of Windows:

Windows 8

Be sure to back up your personal information and bank check for any updated drivers before downloading the operating organization. The Windows viii.1 update requires more than 3GB of space; brand sure yous accept enough free space on your hard drive before proceeding.

Screenshot by Dan Graziano/CNET

If yous are non logged into your Microsoft account, enter the Store, go to the Charms carte du jour, select Settings, click the "Your account" option, and sign in. And then, select the big "Update to Windows 8.ane for free" tile in the Windows Store.

Screenshot past Dan Graziano/CNET

If this option isn't available, you may have to update your PC to the latest Windows patch. To do this, become dorsum to the Showtime menu and enter the Charms bar. Next, select Settings, followed by the "Change PC settings" selection, and click on Windows Update. Check for any new updates, install them, and restart your system.

Screenshot past Dan Graziano/CNET

Windows 7

Updating to Windows viii.1 from Windows 7 can exist done through Microsoft's Upgrade Banana. Windows viii.1 is bachelor for $119.99, while Windows viii.1 Pro can be had for $199.99. The operating system can be purchased online as a digital download or in stores for a physical copy.

Windows settings, personal files, and most apps are saved when going from Windows viii to eight.1, however only personal files are saved when upgrading from Windows 7.Organisation requirements for Windows 8.1 are as follows: at least a 1GHz processor, 1GB of RAM for the 32-scrap version or 2GB of RAM for 64-fleck, 16GB of free hard-drive space for 32-bit or 20GB for 64-bit, and a graphics menu capable of DirectX ix.

Microsoft

Windows XP/Vista

Unfortunately, there is no easy path for those of you who take held out from updating to the latest Windows release. Windows XP and Vista users must do a clean install with a DVD copy of Windows 8.i. The operating system can exist purchased at Microsoft Stores and retailers like Best Purchase for $119.99 and $199.99 for the Dwelling and Pro versions, respectively.

It is also highly recommended that you lot back up your files when upgrading. No Windows XP or Vista files or programs will be carried over to Windows 8.1.