

(I'm not sure if this upgrade was always possible. I remember that app was saying that "this version of Windows is not supported". I think I was under the impression that this wasn't possible because the "Windows 10 Update Assistant" tool doesn't work on Windows 8.1 Enterprise. (One of the comments here was suggesting otherwise.)Īlso I don't remember exactly when but I did have a step in the process where the Windows 10 installation media creation tool said "This version of Windows is not supported" or similar, but when I ran the setup file from the USB key, it recognized my enterprise version and offered to upgrade to Windows 10 Enterprise. an upgrade where personal data, settings, and applications are maintained. Note that the official docs on Windows upgrade paths confirm that a Windows 8.1 Enterprise to Windows 10 Enterprise full upgrade is possible, i.e. So if you're having this issue, I suggest giving the regular Windows 10 installer a try by running it in Windows 8.1 Enterprise.

I was actually taking the steps to do a fresh install of Windows 10 Home (because I no longer have an easy way to get an enterprise license), so I was pleasantly surprised to find an in-place upgrade worked without a Windows 10 Enterprise license. I clicked "Download tool now" at Microsoft's "Download Windows 10" page.) (Note that the tool I used was named MediaCreationTool1903.exe.

I was able to do this by creating Windows 10 installation media (generic non-Enterprise edition) onto a USB key and running the setup file in Windows 8.1 Enterprise. Even if you have automatic Windows Updates enabled, run it manually again just to be sure everything is good to go.I just successfully did an in-place upgrade of Windows 8.1 Enterprise to Windows 10 Enterprise.

Also, because you'll need to re-install your desktop programs, make sure you have a list of all of the license keys for purchased software.Another step I recommend is verifying your Windows 7 system is up-to-date. Either create a local backup on an external drive, an offsite solution, or better yet, use both options. While your folders and files will ideally come with you during the upgrade, if something goes awry, you need to have your pictures, documents, and other important data backed up. Here's a look at what you need to know, and the steps to take to make the process as easy and seamless as possible. The main thing to know is that, unlike upgrading Windows 8 to 8.1, your files and data will transfer, but you'll need to re-install all of your software applications. However, there are a few things you need to know before going ahead with the upgrade. If you're currently running Windows 7 and want to upgrade to Windows 8.1, the process is relatively easy using Microsoft's Upgrade Assistant utility.
