Microsoft has finally put an end to an exploit that allowed users with old Windows 7 or 8 license keys to upgrade to the latest version of Windows 11 for free.
The company had allowed this backdoor upgrade path for years beyond its initial 2015 offering. But now Windows 7/8 keys no longer activate Windows 11.
The old free update loophole is now closed
Since 2015, Windows users can upgrade to new versions such as Windows 10 for free for one year. Silent extensions extended this to allow upgrades from Windows 7/8 to 11.
But Microsoft partners confirmed last month that Windows 7/8 keys no longer allowed activation of Windows 11, closing the long-standing loophole.
The loophole persisted years after the initial offer
Microsoft’s initial Windows 10 upgrade offer in 2015 was for one year, but hidden extensions allowed upgrades until now.
Users have been exploiting the 7/8 to 11 route to avoid Windows 11’s $130 price tag for years after support ended.
Motivation to finish the internship
Now that Windows 7 and 8 are completely outdated and without security updates, Microsoft is motivated to push updates to supported versions.
Allowing users to access Windows 11 indefinitely through older, unsupported licenses undermines this. So Microsoft closed the legacy upgrade option.
It is still possible to upgrade Windows 10 to 11
Importantly, users can still upgrade valid Windows 10 licenses to Windows 11 for free.
Microsoft has only closed the backdoor upgrade path since Windows 7/8.
Windows 11 adoption hampered by controversial features
Many who avoid Windows 11 upgrades cite features they don’t like, such as widespread AI assistants, rather than cost.
With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, Microsoft aims to encourage more users to migrate to Windows 11.
Analysis: Microsoft seeks to control the adoption of Windows 11
By closing the 7/8 loophole, Microsoft regains control over Windows 11 updates to drive revenue and usage. But persuading consumers to adopt this model remains difficult.
Move users to current versions
Avoiding indefinite free updates from 7/8 to 11 should incentivize users to purchase new licenses and run supported versions of Windows.
But the controversial aspects of Windows 11 still deter many from upgrading. Microsoft must address the feedback to convince users.
Balancing business interests
As it seeks to maximize Windows 11 adoption and revenue, Microsoft must avoid angering users with perceived greed.
If Windows 12 offers compelling improvements, it may be wise to offer another affordable upgrade path.
Evolving the Windows business model
Microsoft may need to innovate its operating system licensing model in the long term to adapt to new user behavior and preferences.
Subscriptions or freemium models might be better suited to modern dynamics than one-time purchases. A turn may be coming.
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Categories: Technology
Source: vtt.edu.vn