Can I install Windows 10 without key then add one later?

Vertigo · 1 Apr 2016 at 18:14

I need to install Windows 10 on a laptop but don't have a product key with me. I have a legit retail Windows 7 key which is eligible for the upgrade but I can't get at it for a little while.

Can I download the full ISO from somewhere and install it without a key, as Windows 7 allowed you to, then apply my Windows 7 key later to activate it?

teenwolf · 1 Apr 2016 at 18:16

Vertigo · 1 Apr 2016 at 18:42

Can I download the full ISO legitimately from Microsoft somewhere?

Dano · 1 Apr 2016 at 19:18

Yes, media creation tool a little down the page: https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/software-download/windows10

Vertigo · 1 Apr 2016 at 19:37

Thanks

The main question is whether the full Windows 10 installer will allow you to progress without entering a product key. Windows 7 does but I'm sure I recall Windows 10 insisting on one and I can't find anything categoric on this point.

BuToNz · 1 Apr 2016 at 20:17

Windows 10 does let you skip it.