Microsoft has closed the long-standing loophole that allowed the activation of Windows 11 using Windows 7 and Windows 8 keys.
This loophole has been in use for several years, enabling users to upgrade from Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10 or 11 without paying any price.
When multiple Windows 7 keys were tested on a clean installation of Windows 11 (22H2), it was observed that although the keys allowed the OS to be installed, they failed to activate it.
Microsoft has closed the long-standing loophole that allowed the activation of Windows 11 using Windows 7 and Windows 8 keys. This method has been in use for several years, enabling users to upgrade from Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10 or 11 without paying any price.
According to a report by The Verge, Microsoft initially unveiled its intentions to implement the changes to prevent Windows 7 and Windows 8 keys from activating Windows 11 last month. However, during that time, it was observed that these keys were still successfully activating the operating system, leaving uncertainty about when the blocking measures would be put into effect.
Also read: Microsoft says don’t worry, it will protect Copilot AI users from copyright lawsuits
Now, Microsoft has confirmed to The Verge that as of this week, Windows 7 keys are completely blocked from performing clean installations of Windows 11.
Also read: Windows 11’s new Settings homepage offers personalised experience: Here’s how
When multiple Windows 7 keys were tested on a clean installation of Windows 11 (22H2), it was observed that although the keys allowed the OS to be installed, they failed to activate it.
“We can’t activate Windows on this device because you don’t have a valid digital license or product key,” reads the error message while attempting to activate a Windows 7 key on Windows 11.
If you’ve previously upgraded a computer from Windows 7 or Windows 8 to Windows 11 or used one of these older keys, your activation status won’t change. Your digital license should still be valid. However, if you were considering using this loophole in the future, it’s now necessary to purchase a genuine Windows 11 key.
Last month, Microsoft addressed the concerns about copyright issues related to its AI-powered Copilot services with a new commitment. The new commitment assures customers that they can use Copilot and its output without worrying about copyright claims. If any legal challenges arise, the tech giant will take responsibility for the potential legal risks involved. This step aims to provide clarity and confidence to users in the ever-evolving landscape of AI tools and creativity.
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Ayushi Jain
Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile
