Windows 7 to WIndows 10 upgrade with OEM disc?

[revmaynard]

Hey guys,

Just a quick question here. I currently have Windows 7 Pro 64 and was given an unused Windows 10 OEM disc. Can I use this to upgrade my Windows 7 without doing a fresh install? From what I recall it was possible with Windows 8, but didn't want to waste my time messing with it if this wouldn't work with Windows 10. Thank you!

 

[Barty1884]

Does the OEM disc have a valid license key with it?
If so, you should be able to upgrade from within Windows and provide that key when requested.

A fresh install is always recommended following any upgrade though...

 

[revmaynard]

It does have a valid and unused registration key. I generally do fresh installs if something like this were to come up, however the last time I did I had a lot of trouble with my mod manager/games from Steam and ended up ruining save files with hundreds of hours in them. Sounds silly, but I was hoping by just upgrading I could avoid this again.

 

[captaincharisma]

there have been reports out there that as long as the key has never been used a windows 10 install will accept it. not sure if it works during the install or you have to enter it after it

 

[Barty1884]

Yes, upgrading *should* avoid those issues.

Upgrading is not without it's own quirks, but it's definitely the easier option given your circumstances.