Consider your device compatibility and software needs before deciding to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 8.1.
Consider your device compatibility and software needs before deciding to upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 8.1.
Hey everyone, after setting up Windows 8.1 on my mom's PC, I found it really appealing. The interface feels neat and the updated Task Manager is impressive on its own. However, since I'm using a laptop—my own—I'm unsure if it's worth the switch. I'm thinking about using the upgrade feature to keep my files and programs intact, which would save time on transfers and backups, especially with a small 8GB drive. Also, I'm curious about my Windows 7 key. Will it still work and activate if I ever switch back to Windows 7?
If you like it, sure. If not, don't. Check driver compatibility before updating. Edit: Also, you can't just do a simple upgrade. To do that, you'd have to go 7>8>8.1. Can't upgrade 7>8.1. As a side note, I can't find anywhere whatsoever to acquire an 8 iso or key. I can only find 8.1 keys/isos.
I installed the upgrade and it performed well on my machine. W8.1 on laptops is excellent, with significantly faster boot times.
Windows keys function in a single-use manner unless you possess identical hardware setups, ideally connected to the same network. In such cases, alternative solutions may exist, though they aren't always permissible. When installing Windows 8.1 and the previous version's key isn't active, you can reinstall it. If the hardware differs, contact Microsoft's automated support to reactivate the key. Consider dual-booting as a straightforward option.
Great question! After upgrading to Windows 8.1, the old version (7) is no longer installed. If you reinstall Windows 7 on the same laptop, the key sticker should work again for the new installation.
They won't allow you to upgrade. I attempted that on my desktop, but it declined and suggested a custom install and formatting instead.