Support for Windows 7 has ended

After 10 years, support for Windows 7 ended on January 14, 2020. We know change can be difficult, so we are here to help you with recommendations for what to do next and to answer questions about end of support.

What does end of support mean?

As of January 14, 2020, your computer running Windows 7 will still function but Microsoft will no longer provide the following:

• Technical support for any issues
• Software updates
• Security updates or fixes

While you could continue to use your PC running Windows 7, without continued software and security updates, it will be at greater risk for viruses and malware. Going forward, the best way for you to stay secure is on Windows 10. And the best way to experience Windows 10 is on a new PC. While it is possible to install Windows 10 on your older device, it is not recommended.

What can I do now?

From backing up your files to finding a computer that fits your needs, we’ve got tools to help you transition with ease.

1. Check out the latest PCs

Not only are new modern PCs fast (thanks to solid state drives) and durable with batteries that last longer, the average price for a great PC is considerably less than it was 5-10 years ago.

2. Back up your files and photos

Save your personal files and photos to OneDrive or to an external hard drive. Follow this link to learn all the different ways to move your files.

3. Get tips on Windows 10

We think you’ll feel right at home on a new PC with Windows 10, but if you have any questions or want to learn more, we have lots of tips and tutorials available.

4. Sync your favorites

Download the new Microsoft Edge and sign in to easily transfer your Favorites to any Windows 10 PC.

“Hey @Windows here’s my SS of newly installed Windows 10 Home in my new PC & it’s buttery smooth, am enjoying my new OS, thank you for making such an amazing OS, happy to be part of @Microsoft family! 😉”

“Received new work laptop yesterday: in one leap, a move from Windows 7 to Windows 10. Having had to «re-learn» Windows 7 when I joined the NHS last year, it is nice to be back in a world where there are Apps on a laptop 😊”

“Today I say goodbye to Windows 7. It’s been swell, but @Microsoft finally has it right with Windows 10. My gaming rig is ready (I don’t know if I am) #Windows”

Windows 7 End of Life Support

Download the app to learn how Windows 10 works, see upgrade options and find out how to migrate your files.

What’s new with Windows?

Life happens fast and with Windows 10 by your side, you can easily keep up. Windows 10 computers provide on average up to 28% faster startups 1 , built-in security, and the apps you love.

Thinner, lighter, and faster

With solid state drives and the latest technology, modern PCs offer faster speeds, security, durability, and great designs.

Get new capabilities with a new computer

From touch screens, digital pens, and facial recognition, new PCs enable features that save you steps and are easy to use.

Find the right PC for you

Expect more from a Windows 10 PC.

Thin, light laptops

It’s everything you love and more—portability, power, and the latest in processors.

Versatile 2-in-1s

2-in-1s provide power and flexibility. Touch, type, click, or pen—choose whatever fits your style.

Gaming PCs

All the power you need to win.

Shop Surface

Original by design. See what’s new from Surface.

Check out a variety of Windows 10 computers from our valued retail partners

Windows 10 FAQ

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Will my Windows 7 computer stop working?

No. Support for Windows 7 is discontinued, but the software will continue to function. After January 14, 2020, if your computer is running Windows 7, it will no longer receive security updates. Therefore, it’s important that you move to a modern operating system such as Windows 10, which can provide the latest security updates to help keep you and your data safer. In addition, Microsoft customer service will no longer be available to provide Windows 7 technical support.

How do I get Windows 10?

You can purchase a full version of Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro for your Windows 7 PC. However, the best way to experience Windows 10 is on a new PC. Today’s computers are faster and more powerful and come with Windows 10 already installed.

Answer a few online questions to find out if your Windows 7 PC is ready for Windows 10. Or, have a look at new Windows 10 PCs.

Can I upgrade Windows 7 to Windows 10 for free?

There was a promotional free upgrade offer available when Windows 10 first released, but that offer expired July 29, 2016.

You can purchase and download Windows 10 on your device today. Although, if your computer is more than three years old, it might be time to consider upgrading to a new device. We would love to help you find a computer that’s faster, safer, and delivers the new features Windows 10 has to offer before your current PC slows you down.

Download the Guide to Windows 10 app to find the best way to upgrade to Windows 10.

Why should I consider a new computer?

PCs originally built with Windows 7 are running 10-year-old technology. Windows 10 has many of the same features and capabilities from Windows 7 built into the experience. Once you move to a new PC, there will be many aspects of the experience that you will find familiar, but also with important innovations and capabilities that were not available ten years ago. Checkout these innovative new features available with Windows 10 on a new device:

• Newer PC hardware that is faster, more capable, and more compatible with the latest industry technology.
• To help you keep your device secure, you can take advantage of the latest security capabilities:
  • Get built-in security at no extra cost. Your Windows device comes with built-in security features, including firewall and internet protections to help safeguard against viruses, malware, and ransomware.
  • Sign in three times faster and forget your password. 6 Just use your face or fingerprint, to securely and instantly unlock your computer. 2
• Enjoy a new way to interact with Windows beyond your mouse and keyboard. Most of us are familiar with touchscreens on our phones, and now many new PCs have a touchscreen on a new Windows 10 computer. With the touchscreen, you can also utilize pen technology to write and markup documents and websites. Touchscreens and pens allow you to zoom in, zoom out, quickly scroll, and sign documents.
• The Photos app automatically organizes and tags your photos. Searching for photos is easy and fun. Looking for pictures you took at the beach? Just type “beach” into the search bar and all your beach photos appear.

Need more reasons? Checkout the list of features available with Windows 10.

How is Windows 10 security better than Windows 7?

Windows 10 is the most secure Windows ever built, with comprehensive end-to-end security that covers antivirus, firewall, internet protections, and more. This means more security features, dashboard displays, and ongoing updates 3 to help safeguard against future threats—all built-in at no extra cost.

Which version of Windows 10 is right for me?

There are multiple versions of Windows 10, so whether your PC is for personal, professional, or educational use, there’s a perfect match for you.

Windows 10 Home is the perfect operating system for personal and household use, while Windows 10 Pro offers all the familiar features of Windows 10 Home, plus additional features such as BitLocker, remote desktop, and domain join to support professionals.

For individuals seeking enhanced security and performance in and outside the office, there is Windows 10 in S mode. Windows 10 in S mode keeps you running fast and more secure day in and day out, by only using verified apps from the Microsoft Store.

How do I transfer my personal files to a new computer?

It’s easy to bring your files and photos to a new PC using OneDrive, a cloud storage service. With internet access and a few clicks, you can back up and protect your files online in the cloud and then, when you’re ready, sync onto a new PC. Syncing the files between your new PC and the cloud allows you to store the file locally for offline use when you don’t have internet access as well as on the OneDrive service in the cloud where you can restore them if something happens. OneDrive can automatically keep the two versions in sync as changes are made.

Note: these instructions are designed for Windows 7 users. The OneDrive client came with Windows 8 so users with Windows 8 and 8.1 devices can use these same instructions but skip the part about installing the app.

If OneDrive is not the best fit for you, you can use an external hard drive or the Windows Backup & Restore feature. Head to aka.ms/MoveToWindows10 to learn how.

Can I move my shortcuts and IE favorites to a new PC?

If you’re moving to a new Windows 10 PC, you can easily move your Internet Explorer favorites with you. These instructions will guide you through moving IE favorites onto Microsoft Edge, the faster, safer way to get things done on the internet. Windows 10 still comes with the Internet Explorer 11 browser you’re probably familiar with. However, it also includes Microsoft Edge, the safer, faster browser designed specifically for Windows 10.

Does Windows 10 support the use of a digital pen or stylus?

Yes. Windows 10 features our innovative and responsive Windows Ink technology that empowers you with a pen that flows as fast as your ideas. Draw, take notes, navigate, and doodle: tap into your creative potential and power productivity with Windows Ink. Windows Ink is only available on pen-capable tablets and PCs. The digital pen may be sold separately.

How do I sign into Windows 10 without a password?

Unlock your Windows 10 device with our password-free sign-in capability, Windows Hello. Use your face, fingerprint, or companion device 2 to unlock your Windows 10 computer in the fastest, most secure way. On devices that support Windows Hello, users can automatically bypass the login screen without typing a password.

How will the end of support for Windows 7 affect my Microsoft Office apps?

Your experience may be different depending on the Office version you’re running. To learn more, see Windows 7 end of support and Office.

What does end of support mean for me as a Windows 7 user?

After January 14, 2020, if your PC is running Windows 7, it will no longer receive security updates. Microsoft strongly recommends that you move to a new device with Windows 10 preinstalled, which, among other benefits, can provide the latest security features and updates to help keep you and your data safer.

Why is support ending for Windows 7?

As part of our standard lifecycle support policies, Microsoft made a commitment to provide 10 years of product support for Windows 7 when it was released on October 22, 2009.

If I buy a new PC with Windows 10, how long will it be supported?

Windows 10 is designed to have updates delivered continuously, so as long as your PCs hardware takes any updates provided, you will remain supported. For more details including limitations to the timeline, please see this Windows 10 lifecycle policy page.

What happens if I continue to use Windows 7?

You can continue to use Windows 7, but after support has ended, your PC will become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Windows will continue to start and run, but you will no longer receive security or other updates from Microsoft.