Step 1 – Check basic system compatibility
Before upgrading, confirm your PC can run Windows 10. At minimum, most systems need a 1 GHz processor, 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended), and enough free storage. If your device is very old or low on storage, the upgrade may fail or run poorly.
Step 2 – Back up your important files (recommended)
Even if you plan to keep your files, a backup is strongly recommended in case anything goes wrong.
Copy documents, photos, and important folders to an external drive, USB, or cloud storage
If you use Outlook or other email apps, make sure you know how your data is stored (PST files, IMAP sync, etc.)
Step 3 – Free up space and clean up the system
Upgrades are smoother when your system has room to work.
Make sure you have sufficient free disk space (at least 20–30 GB is a good target)
Uninstall apps you no longer use
Run Disk Cleanup if available
Step 4 – Install pending Windows 7 updates
A fully updated Windows 7 system reduces upgrade errors.
Open Control Panel > Windows Update
Install available updates
Restart as needed until you’re up to date
Step 5 – Temporarily disable non-essential security software
Some third-party antivirus tools can interfere with upgrades.
If you use a third-party antivirus, consider disabling it temporarily during the upgrade
Re-enable it after the upgrade completes
Step 6 – Start the upgrade using Microsoft’s Windows 10 installer
On your Windows 7 PC, use Microsoft’s Windows 10 installation tool to begin the upgrade.
Download the Windows 10 installer from Microsoft
Run the tool and choose the option to upgrade this PC
When asked, select the option to keep personal files and apps (if available)
Step 7 – Let the upgrade complete (expect restarts)
The upgrade can take a while and your PC may restart multiple times. Avoid powering off the device during this stage.
Step 8 – Confirm your files and apps are still there
After the upgrade finishes:
Check your desktop, Documents, and key folders
Open a few important apps to confirm they still work
If something is missing, check the Windows.old folder (if it exists), which can sometimes contain files from the previous installation.
Step 9 – Install updates and drivers after upgrading
Once you’re on Windows 10:
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
Install available updates
Restart if required
If you notice issues with Wi-Fi, audio, or graphics, install the latest drivers from your device manufacturer.
Step 10 – Activate Windows (if required)
Some systems activate automatically after upgrading. If activation is needed:
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation