Can a Pirated Windows 8.1 Be Upgraded to Windows 10?
The upgrade of pirated Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 is a topic that has generated much controversy and confusion. While it may be technically possible to perform such an upgrade, the legitimacy of your Windows 10 installation after the upgrade is a different matter altogether.
Official Microsoft Stance
According to Microsoft, you can upgrade a pirated installation of Windows 8.1 to Windows 10. However, it is important to note that the upgrade process does not legitimize or change the status of your original pirated license.
Microsoft's spokesperson: 'Although non-Genuine PCs might be able to upgrade to Windows 10, the upgrade will not change the genuine state of the license. Customers that are improperly licensed before the upgrade will be improperly licensed after the upgrade,' they stated.
Microsoft provides a tool for Windows 10 users to obtain a legitimate license through the Windows Store. This tool is available whether you are an upgraded or newly purchased user of Windows 10.
Automatic Upgrade and Licensing Issues
Automatic Upgrade Phenomenon: Some users have reported that their Windows 8.1 installations, which were pirated, automatically updated to Windows 10. The system continued to function normally.
These experiences indicate that the automatic upgrade mechanism is less stringent in terms of legal validation. However, the use of the pirated version afterward remains illegal.
Manually Upgrading via the Media Creation Tool: To ensure a legitimate Windows 10 installation, it is recommended to use the official Microsoft Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive and perform the installation manually. This method allows you to obtain a genuine license.
Conclusion and Recommendation
While pirated Windows 8.1 can technically be upgraded to Windows 10, it is highly recommended to avoid such practice. Pirating software is illegal and unethical, and it can lead to severe consequences such as data loss, security vulnerabilities, and legal action.
It is always better to purchase a legitimate license for Windows 10 to ensure your system is secure and compliant with the law. If you already have a pirated Windows 8.1 installation, consider lawfully acquiring a license for Windows 10 and using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool to install and activate it correctly.
Remember, the importance of a legal and legitimate software environment cannot be overstated.
Use Microsoft Media Creation Tool and create a bootable USB from it. Then install the windows 10 from the USB drive.
By doing so, you will not only enjoy the full features and benefits of Windows 10 but also comply with the terms of use and avoid potential issues.