Upgrading from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 is highly recommended, as Windows 8.1 will reach end of support on January 10, 2023[1]. After this date, Windows 8.1 will no longer receive security updates or support. Upgrading to Windows 10 will allow you to continue receiving the latest security updates and support.
As an IT professional with over 10 years of experience, I recommend upgrading to Windows 10 for improved security, features, and ongoing support. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to upgrade from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 without losing your files or apps.
Table of Contents
Back Up Your Files
Before upgrading, it is crucial to back up your important files and data. I recommend using the built-in File History tool in Windows 8.1 to create a backup on an external hard drive or network location.
Here are the steps to set up and run File History:
- Connect an external hard drive with enough storage space to hold your files
- Search for “File History Settings” and open the File History app
- Click “Turn on” and select your backup drive
- Click “Advanced settings” and choose backup frequency and size
- Click “Save changes” and then “Back up now” to create the initial backup
This will save copies of your files on the external drive automatically. Keep this backup handy in case you need to restore files after upgrading.
Check Hardware Compatibility
Make sure your PC hardware meets the minimum requirements to run Windows 10:
- Processor: 1GHz or faster
- RAM: 1GB (32-bit) or 2GB (64-bit)
- Hard disk space: 16GB (32-bit) or 20GB (64-bit)
- Graphics card: DirectX 9 with WDDM driver
Use a tool like the Windows 10 Upgrade Assistant to scan your hardware and confirm compatibility.
Download Windows 10 Installation Media
Go to Microsoft’s Download Windows 10 website and click Download Now to get the Windows 10 installation media on your Windows 8.1 PC.
Run the MediaCreationTool22H2.exe file once downloaded to set up the Windows 10 installer.
Perform Clean Install or In-place Upgrade
You have two options to upgrade from Windows 8.1 to 10:
- Clean install: Erases everything and installs a fresh copy of Windows 10
- In-place upgrade: Installs Windows 10 over your existing Windows 8.1, preserving files, settings, and apps
I recommend trying the in-place upgrade first to avoid losing data. If that fails, do a clean install.
In-Place Upgrade
To do in-place upgrade, double click the MediaCreationTool22H2.exe file downloaded earlier. In the tool:
- Click Upgrade this PC now
- Click Keep personal files and apps
- Click Install to begin the upgrade
This will take time. Once done, you will be in Windows 10 with your files and apps intact.
Clean Install
If in-place upgrade fails or your system is too outdated, do a clean install:
- Boot from the Windows 10 installation media
- Click Custom: Install Windows only during setup
- Select drive to install Windows 10 and click Next
- Follow on-screen directions to complete the clean install
You’ll have to install apps and restore data from the File History backup after the clean install.
Activate Windows 10
Once the upgrade completes, Windows 10 will automatically activate online using your existing Windows 8.1 license key. You can also use the activation troubleshooter if any issues pop up during activation.
Install Drivers and Software
With Windows 10 upgrade complete, use Windows Update to install the latest drivers for your hardware. Reinstall any required software programs as well.
Conclusion
Upgrading from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 is simple using the steps outlined. I recommend trying the in-place upgrade to avoid data loss, and do a clean install if the upgrade fails. Back up your data beforehand and check hardware compatibility to avoid headaches. Overall, Windows 10 is faster and more secure than Windows 8.1, and I suggest upgrading as soon as possible before Windows 8.1 goes end of life.
Let me know if you have any other questions! I have over 10 years of experience as an IT professional helping people upgrade operating systems.
