

Microsoft actually lets users download Windows 10 completely free directly from their own website. If you desperately need to download Windows 10 for free and don’t have any installation media, you do not need to look for third party sources. Download Windows 10 ISO directly from Microsoft Alternatively, they may run ads on your system in the background to earn money from you. Some malware may track your key presses and steal your information, or they may use your PC power to mine cryptocurrency. Those that give away cracked software for free may tamper with the software and package it with malware or viruses.

Perhaps more worryingly, downloading Windows 10 for free from third party websites can be very dangerous. It’s up to debate whether or not downloading Microsoft software illegally will land you in trouble or with a big fine, but it’s certainly possible and Microsoft have the right to pursue legal action in this case. Is it Legal?ĭownloading a full version of Windows 10 for free from a third party source is absolutely illegal and we wouldn’t recommend it. Using a third party website to download Windows 10 for free is certainly against Microsoft’s policies and more importantly, it may present some legal troubles or other issues for you. Your source of information may have mentioned that they can get you the full Windows 10 operating system for free, without any watermarks or product key.

This is the only form of nag you’ll see - there are no pop-up windows, for example.You may have heard from a friend or colleague that they were able to download Windows 10 for free from a third party website, or maybe you read about it online. Activate Windows now.” link at the bottom of the Settings app. You’ll also see a “Windows isn’t activated. First, you’ll notice a watermark in the bottom-right corner of your screen. Eventually, Windows will start nagging you a tiny bit. Initially, you won’t notice a difference. These days, Windows just complains at you in a few minor, cosmetic ways. With Windows XP, Microsoft actually used Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) to disable access to your computer. However, an unactivated version of Windows 10 doesn’t have many restrictions. RELATED: How Does Windows Activation Work?Īfter you’ve installed Windows 10 without a key, it won’t actually be activated. Whatever version you choose, Windows 10 will install normally. When you select this option, you’ll be able to install either “Windows 10 Home” or “Windows 10 Pro.” Bear in mind that, if you plan to pay to upgrade to the paid version later, it’ll be cheaper to upgrade to Windows 10 Home, so you may want to install the Home version.
