It’s a sad time for PC builders everywhere – but one we all probably knew would eventually come: Microsoft closed the “loophole” that allowed you to use a Windows 7/8 key to activate a copy of Windows 10/11. How important was this? Most people won’t care or notice. Even though a lot of people took advantage of this, the vast majority of system builders and pre-built buyers probably didn’t even know this trick existed.
So let’s call it a “big deal” for a very small segment of the PC builder community. What does it mean for those affected? It means that they’ll now be paying the full $120+ that Microsoft wants for a Windows 11 license on their new builds. Before the change, it was possible to re-use a 7 or 8 license you had laying around. Now you’ll need to pay for a new one.
Was It Legal To Re-Use A Windows 7 License?
For years and years this was one of those “insider” grey-area tricks that people would share with their friends & family. The trick was so well known that Microsoft had to know about it – but they either allowed it on purpose or didn’t really care. An entire industry sprouted up of people selling second-hand Windows 7 / 8 keys on sites like Ebay – where for $15-$20 you could get all you needed to activate Windows (legally?) and get updates for your PC. And once you activate Windows, you’re good to go as far as using it going forward.
A Shift in Windows Activation Policy
Now that the Windows 7 to 10/11 loophole is in the past, we may never see something like this return from Microsoft. That’s because most major manufacturer Windows 10 and 11 licenses are now hardware embedded. There aren’t any physical external key stickers or licenses to buy or sell on the secondary market. And the activation is now more closely tied to the hardware that it was intended for than before. What does that mean? This trick may have been put to bed for good.
While rumors swirled that Microsoft was loosening its policies towards charging for Windows and that some future version of Windows may eventually come out as Freeware – this move seems to put that rumor to bed. Rather than loosening it further, Microsoft has tightened its grip on the Windows 11 activation process. By putting an end to this loophole for Windows 11 along with changing the way keys are handled now – it seems like Microsoft’s intent for Windows 12 and beyond will be to generate revenue from it like they always have.
The thinking was always that Microsoft would have to turn to a free version of Windows to stave off threats from Linux, Android, MacOS going more mainstream, etc. but it seems like Windows has as much of a stronghold over the market as they ever have. Alternative options just don’t pose much of a threat to them.
How The Activation Loophole Worked
For years, tech enthusiasts and users alike have leveraged a loophole that permitted the activation of Windows 10 and 11 using older Windows 7 or 8 keys. This essentially allowed a free upgrade path from older Windows versions to the newer ones. However, Microsoft’s recent policy change has put a halt to this practice. The activation loophole was a simple process:
- Install Windows 10 or 11 as you would normally
- Enter your Windows 7 or 8 key where it asked for the new product key
- In most cases you would get an automatic activation. In some cases there would be an additional step of a ‘Phone’ activation where you would have to agree to conditions related to your key (you’re only using it on one computer, you recently changed hardware, etc.)
The Official Word
Although Microsoft hinted at this change in September of 2023, the actual implementation seemed unclear. The recent confirmation from Microsoft to various tech news outlets and people commenting all over the internet made it clear that Windows 7 keys can no longer be used for fresh Windows 11 installations. This change was likely pushed world-wide sometime in October of 2023.
Implications for Current Users
For those who have already utilized this loophole to upgrade their systems, there’s no cause for alarm. Your activation status remains intact, and your digital license will continue to function as usual. However, for users planning to capitalize on this loophole for future installations, the message is clear: it’s time to invest in a genuine Windows 11 license.
Community Reactions
The decision has sparked various reactions from the tech community. Some users express understanding, acknowledging that they haven’t financially supported Microsoft’s OS endeavors in years. Others, however, feel the pinch, especially those who relied on this method for system upgrades and fresh installations.
A Look at the Bigger Picture
While some may view this as a mere revenue-generating move, it’s essential to consider the broader perspective. Microsoft’s decision ensures a more consistent user experience, reduces software piracy, and aligns with the company’s vision for a more secure and reliable operating system.
There’s always people on both sides of the argument when a “loophole” is closed. If anything, it was very generous of Microsoft to allow SO much time for 7/8 users to carry their licenses forward without having to purchase a new one. Legality and ethics aside, if you were going to upgrade using your old license you probably expected to pay something. The fact that it didn’t cost you anything for so long was more of a gift from Microsoft than anything else. After all these years, it looks like that is no longer an option and that seems fair.
Final Thoughts
As the tech landscape evolves, companies like Microsoft must adapt their policies to reflect current market dynamics and user needs. While the closure of this loophole might be a minor inconvenience for some, it underscores the importance of staying updated with genuine software for a seamless and secure computing experience.
Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com. You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.
When I’m not writing about tech I’m playing with my dog or hanging out with my girlfriend.
Shoot me a message at ericchan@gadgetmates.com if you want to see a topic discussed or have a correction on something I’ve written.
