Windows 10 is officially available in 190 countries around the world to existing Windows users and those purchasing new PCs and tablets. If you’re wondering how to get Microsoft’s latest operating system, here’s a little guide showing you how to get and install Windows 10.
(See also: Eight reasons why you should upgrade to Windows 10
Windows 10 is a free upgrade for users of Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1, but those running older versions may need to purchase a copy. Depending on the operating system your computer is currently using, the process for getting and installing Windows 10 may be slightly different. If you’re not sure about this, here’s a guide to help you. Make sure your system meets the Windows 10 minimum requirements.
Download Windows 10 ISO
The most reliable way to get Windows 10 now is to visit the Microsoft website and download the Windows 10 ISO file. Given the size of the download, you will need a fast internet connection to download this file, and a blank USB or DVD drive to burn the ISO file so you can run the installer on your computer. Please visit the Microsoft website for more instructions and license requirements.
You are upgrading from Windows 7 or Windows 8.x
As mentioned before, Windows 10 is a free upgrade if you’re running Windows 7 or Windows 8.x. The upgrade method is as follows:
1. Open Windows Update (search for “Windows Update” in the Start menu or Start screen).
2. If your computer is eligible, you will see the option to upgrade to Windows 10.
In some cases, such as in Windows 7, you may need to download the SP1 update before moving to Windows 10. Please note that this may take a while.
If you don’t see any updates, you’ll need to manually keep a copy of Windows 10. You can follow these simple steps. If you can’t wait for the upgrade to come out and don’t mind putting in some effort, download the Windows 10 ISO as mentioned above and follow these steps to get Windows 10 right away.
Alternatively, there is another way to force the download of Windows 10 on an existing Windows 7 or Windows 8.x installation – just follow the steps below.
If Windows 10 Update does show up, your computer will automatically start downloading the new update and boot you into the new operating system. Agree to all Microsoft terms in the prompt below.
(See also: Windows 10 is here, but maybe you shouldn’t upgrade yet)
You buy Windows 10 from a retail store (preferred for Windows XP users)
1. Insert the Windows 10 USB drive into the computer or insert the Windows 10 disc into the DVD drive.
2. Restart your computer.
3. Change the standard boot preferences to boot from a USB or DVD drive. You can do this by pressing the Esc key or the F1 key before the boot process begins. It may vary depending on your motherboard manufacturer.
4. Press any key Go ahead and select Next on the following screen.
5. Click Install.
6. If you wish to keep your existing operating system and files, select the first option. If you want to replace your system’s existing operating system with Windows 10, select Customize.
(See also: Windows 10 shares Wi-Fi passwords with your contacts – here’s how to disable it)
If you choose the second option, you will need to install Windows 10 on an existing partition or delete one and create a new one first. In either case, you’ll find options on your screen. Click Next When you are done.
Your computer has started installing Windows 10. This process may take a while, so please be patient.
You are using Windows 10 Developer Preview
You don’t need to do anything. Microsoft will automatically download the latest updates to your system and migrate you to the latest version of Windows 10.
How did you download and install Windows 10? Was your experience smooth or did you encounter problems? Let us know in the comments. For more tutorials, visit our how-to section.
