Keep in mind that you’ll still need a legitimate, matching serial key to activate Windows 7. If you don’t have a Windows installation disc already, you can download a new copy of Microsoft’s operating system. If not, you’ll need to first create a Windows 7 reinstall disc either by loading the image onto a USB drive or by burning it to a DVD, which we outline below. If you have a copy of the disc that originally came with your computer or another copy of Windows on a CD or DVD, skip to the next page to learn about installation types. Having an extra copy of your data for safekeeping is never a bad idea should something go wrong during the installation process. Check out our guide on how to back up your PC if you prefer step-by-step guidance or our top picks of the best free backup software if you’re looking for several quality options on with which to make a backup copy of your data. Regardless of which type of Windows installation you choose, it’s always a great idea to back up your data before beginning the process. Given that Windows 7 is no longer being supported, this key is the only way to get a legitimate copy of Windows 7 from Microsoft. Make sure to have this on hand – If your PC’s restore or Windows 7 disk came in a paper or plastic sleeve, the key would likely be on that. Avoiding constant pop-ups from Windows asking you to validate the install with the key is also a nice bonus. This key allows Microsoft to check whether you have a legitimate, legal copy of Windows 7, although updates are no longer available. Once you’re done installing Windows 7, the OS will ask you to put in its CD/Serial key. We highly recommend that you upgrade to Windows 10 immediately. If you decide to disregard this advice, please note that we cannot be held responsible for any errors or issues that may occur. As such, Digital Trends does not recommend that our readers use Windows 7 on their devices. Unfortunately, Microsoft no longer offers official support for Windows 7 since January 14th, 2020, which leaves users with few options if their PCs go belly-up.

Win 7 installation media