How to upgrade to Windows 10 from a pirated version of the OS

In order to ease the Windows 10 upgrade process for non-Genuine Windows 7 or 8.1 users, Microsoft is planning to bring a one-click opportunity. This will help them to get a genuine version of Windows 10 via the Windows Store or by entering an activation code.

Microsoft said it would kick off the experiment with US Windows users before expanding it to other regions.

Until Microsoft launches the one-click programme, consider trying out the guide below to upgrade your pirated version to Windows 10 and buy a licence. Note that you should have used a cracking tool and have a legitimate Windows product key.

How to upgrade a pirated Windows version to Windows 10

Keep in mind that you should upgrade to a version of Windows 10 that corresponds to your older Windows. For instance, those on Windows 7 Home Premium or Windows 8.1 should upgrade to Windows 10 Home. Similarly, if you are running a Pro version, you should upgrade to Windows 10 Pro only.

Step 1: When you get a screen asking you to "Enter the product key to activate Windows", press the Skip button below.

Step 2: One more time a screen will appear saying "It's time to enter the product key", press the button below that says "Do this later".

Note: Some Reddit users earlier reported that after upgrading their cracked version of Windows 7 or 8.1 to Windows 10, they got a genuine activation of Windows 10. Even if you do get it, the activation might be corrected later.

Step 3: After the upgrade, to get your legitimate Windows 10 licence click the Start button then Settings and open it. Now navigate to Update & Security >> Activation.

Step 4: On the right side of the screen you will see a notification saying "to activate Windows, enter a different product key or go to the Store". Click on the "Go to Store" option.

Once you enter the Store, you can buy a proper Windows licence.