Can a win 8 drive be upgraded to win 10?

Yes, a **Windows 8 drive can be upgraded to Windows 10**, but there are a few key considerations:

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## ✅ Upgrade Paths

### 🔄 From Windows 8.1:

* **Direct upgrade to Windows 10 is supported**.

* You can **keep your files, settings, and applications**.

* Use the [Windows 10 Media Creation Tool](https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows10) from Microsoft.

### 🚫 From Windows 8.0 (not 8.1):

* **Direct upgrade is *not* officially supported**.

* You must **first upgrade to Windows 8.1**, and then to Windows 10.

* Windows 8.0 lacks support in the Media Creation Tool.

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## 📦 What You Need

* A working **Windows 8.1 license** (if you're on 8.0, upgrade free via Microsoft Store).

* An internet connection.

* A USB drive (8GB+) if you're creating installation media.

* Enough **free disk space** (at least 20 GB recommended).

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## 🧭 How to Upgrade Step-by-Step

### 1. **Check Current Version**

* Run `winver` in the Start menu to confirm if you're on Windows 8 or 8.1.

### 2. **Upgrade from 8.0 to 8.1** (if necessary)

* Open the **Microsoft Store** from Windows 8.

* Search for **Windows 8.1 Update**, and install it (free).

### 3. **Download Media Creation Tool**

* Visit: [https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows10](https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows10)

* Choose **“Upgrade this PC now”** or create a bootable USB/DVD.

### 4. **Run the Upgrade**

* Follow on-screen steps.

* Choose whether to **keep files and apps**, or do a clean install.

### 5. **Activate Windows 10**

* If your Windows 8.1 was activated and genuine, the upgrade **should auto-activate**.

* If not, you may need to enter your **Windows 8.1 product key** during or after installation.

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## 🔑 Licensing Note

Even though the **free upgrade period officially ended in 2016**, Microsoft still allows **Windows 8/8.1 product keys** to activate Windows 10 in most cases.

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## ⚠️ After Upgrade

* Update all drivers and run **Windows Update**.

* Reinstall antivirus or other third-party software if needed.

* Backup data **before starting** in case something goes wrong.

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Would you like a [bootable USB guide](f), help [finding your Windows 8 product key](f), or [backup steps before upgrading](f)?