And as people have asked me about it, on Twitter or via email, I’ve told them that it still works.īut it’s been a while since I’ve written on this topic formally. Since then, I’ve tested this scenario on a very regular basis, probably roughly once a month. Over two years after Microsoft first enabled this functionality, the answer is a resounding yes.Īnd I can think of a number of reasons why one might need to do so.Īs noted, Microsoft first introduced this capability over two years ago, and in doing so it erased what had been one of the early install/activation issues with the then-new Windows 10.Īlmost a year later, I reported that this capability-which was supposed to be temporary, by the way– still worked. This is the only form of nag you’ll see - there are no pop-up windows, for example.Readers routinely ask me whether it’s still possible to clean install Windows 10 with an unused Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 product key. Activate Windows now.” link at the bottom of the Settings app. You’ll also see a “Windows isn’t activated. First, you’ll notice a watermark in the bottom-right corner of your screen. Eventually, Windows will start nagging you a tiny bit. Initially, you won’t notice a difference. These days, Windows just complains at you in a few minor, cosmetic ways.
With Windows XP, Microsoft actually used Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) to disable access to your computer. However, an unactivated version of Windows 10 doesn’t have many restrictions. RELATED: How Does Windows Activation Work?Īfter you’ve installed Windows 10 without a key, it won’t actually be activated. Whatever version you choose, Windows 10 will install normally. When you select this option, you’ll be able to install either “Windows 10 Home” or “Windows 10 Pro.” Bear in mind that, if you plan to pay to upgrade to the paid version later, it’ll be cheaper to upgrade to Windows 10 Home, so you may want to install the Home version.
0 kommentar(er)
