How to upgrade 7 Pro to 10 Pro

Frank 60 Reputation points
2026-09-15T17:02:13.9866667+00:00

I have 7 Pro on a computer but when I bought it 10 was current, but I preferred 7 for work purposes. Within the last few month apps aren't opening, scanner doesn't respond, etc. It came with 10 pro but purchased 7 pro and had that installed. I would like to install 10 without upsetting all the installed programs. I have the cd's for 10. Can I just insert the discs and let the computer update to 10? Thanks

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Install and upgrade
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Answer accepted by question author
Marcin Policht 108.9K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
2026-09-15T18:48:36.3666667+00:00

Yep - but you should not boot from the Windows 10 DVD and install it, because that can overwrite Windows 7 and your installed programs. Since you want to keep your programs and files, start Windows 7 normally, insert the Windows 10 installation disc, and run setup.exe from the disc.

During setup, choose Upgrade and make sure it offers “Keep personal files and apps.” Do not proceed if that option is unavailable. Windows 7 Professional can be upgraded to Windows 10 Pro, so the edition is compatible. Your existing programs and personal files should remain in place after the upgrade.

Before doing this, take a full backup or disk image of the Windows 7 installation. Some older programs, drivers, or hardware that worked under Windows 7 may not work correctly under Windows 10, particularly the scanner. Also make sure you have the Windows 10 product key if your discs require one. If the computer originally came with Windows 10 Pro, it may have a digital license that activates Windows 10 automatically on that same hardware.

One other consideration - Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. In September 2026, a fresh Windows 10 installation is no longer receiving normal free security updates, although Microsoft's Extended Security Updates options may apply. If the computer supports Windows 11, I would check that before committing to Windows 10.

If the above response helps answer your question, remember to "Accept Answer" so that others in the community facing similar issues can easily find the solution. Your contribution is highly appreciated.

hth

Marcin

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