If you’ve purchased multiple licenses of Windows 10 Professional, only to find that the version is now outdated with the release of Windows 11, you may be wondering what to do with your unused licenses. While Microsoft has ended mainstream support for Windows 10, there are still options available for those who have purchased these licenses. In this article, we’ll explore your options for handling unused Windows 10 licenses and whether upgrading to Windows 11 is possible without extra cost.
Is Windows 10 Still Usable After Windows 11’s Release?
Windows 10 is no longer the most recent version of the operating system, but it is still functional and secure for the time being. While Microsoft is transitioning users to Windows 11, Windows 10 will continue to receive security updates until October 2025. This means that even if you have unused Windows 10 licenses, they’re still valuable for the next few years. You can install and use Windows 10 on your computer without issues until support for it officially ends.
However, if you prefer to use Windows 11 or if Microsoft’s updates push you toward upgrading, there are other considerations to keep in mind.
Can I Upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11 for Free?
Yes, Microsoft has made Windows 11 available as a free upgrade to eligible Windows 10 users, but it depends on your device’s compatibility. To upgrade to Windows 11 for free, your system needs to meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11, such as having a compatible processor, TPM 2.0 support, and sufficient RAM and storage.
If your device is compatible, you can upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 through the Windows Update feature. However, if your hardware doesn’t meet the requirements, you won’t be able to upgrade to Windows 11 for free. In that case, you may need to continue using Windows 10 or consider upgrading your hardware.
What to Do with Unused Windows 10 Licenses?
If you’ve purchased Windows 10 licenses and have yet to use them, they’re still useful in several scenarios:
-
**Installing Windows 10 on a new PC**: If you build or purchase a new computer that meets the requirements for Windows 10, you can use your unused licenses to install the operating system.
-
**Upgrading to Windows 11**: If your computer doesn’t meet the Windows 11 requirements but you want to continue using Windows 10, you can activate it with one of your unused licenses.
-
**Selling or transferring the license**: If you decide to move to Windows 11 or no longer need Windows 10, you may consider selling or transferring your unused licenses (make sure this complies with Microsoft’s license agreement).
Conclusion: Is It Worth Holding Onto Your Windows 10 Licenses?
Even though Windows 10 is being phased out in favor of Windows 11, your unused licenses are not wasted. You can continue to use Windows 10 for the foreseeable future, or you can take advantage of the free upgrade to Windows 11 if your hardware supports it. If you’ve purchased multiple licenses, they remain valuable for use on new devices or for future installations. By staying informed on Microsoft’s policies and considering your upgrade options, you can make the most out of your investment in Windows 10.
コメント