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Can I still Use Windows 7? How to Stay on Windows 7 Forever?
Here’s how to continue using Windows 7 for as long as possible
5 min. read
Updated onOctober 3, 2024
updated onOctober 3, 2024
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Windows 7is somewhat the preferredOSchoice of many computer users across the globe.
It is durable enough to run low-end operations while also optimized to execute high-end functions with near-perfection.
Its flexibility makes it ideal for all classes of computers, and many people see it as the best Windows version, with little regard for the newer versions (Windows 11 included).
However, Microsoft has phased outWindows 7as of January 14, 2020. So, why are we still talking about it? There are still many loyal fans who would like to stay on Windows 7 forever.
Due to significant pushback from users worldwide, Microsoft made yet another concession; hence the Windows 7 end of life extended to 2023.
Fast forward to January 2023, the extension comes to an end. So what now: can you still use Windows 7, does Windows 7 still work? We shall try to answer all your questions, as follows.
Can I still use Windows 7?
Windows 7′ EOL is upon us, meaning there is no more official support (from Microsoft) for Windows 7PCs.
With this, security patches and system updates are stopped, leavingWindows 7PCsvulnerable and outdated.
What happens if you still use Windows 7?
Users are left with no choice but to upgrade theirOSto a newer version. Failure to upgrade would expose their Windows PCs to malware attacks, bugs, system lags, and other security issues.
But is there really no choice to be made? We don’t think so.
If you still want to keep runningWin7on yourPCfor as long as possible, without official support, you can, and we will show you how to do it. But first, we have a few things to clear out.
? Does Windows 7 still work? Yes, and you will be able to stay on Windows 7 forever or until it is no longer available, which leads us straight to the next big question.
? Can I still install Windows 7? As long as you have a product key, you can install it on a compliant PC.
? Is Windows 7 still good? There is no right answer here. Technically, it is outdated, and there are better options to pick from. However, those who decided to remain loyal to this now-historical version of Windows still appreciate its stability and ease of use. To test out the iteration,use an online Windows 7 simulator.
? Can you still use Windows 7 safely? This is also debatable, you can go the extra mile and add arobust antivirus that works with Windows 7as well as a lightweight VPN for privacy. However, the best way to keep out of trouble is to stay offline as much as possible.
In this guide, we are going to be showing you what you can do to stay on and useWindows 7forever, without installing Windows 10.
How can I continue using Windows 7?
1. Disable Windows 10 Upgrade
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On the displayed window, selectPolicies.
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UnderPolicies, click on theAdministrative Templatesoption.
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SelectWindows Updates.
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On the displayed window, double-tap on theTurn off the upgrade to the latest version of Windows through Windows Updateoption.
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Finish the configuration by tapping onEnable.
This is the first and most conventional process if you want to hang on toWin7on yourPC. MostWindows 7PCsby default auto-update to the latest version.
Hence, if this function is not disabled, yourWindows 7computer would automatically be updated to Windows 10.
To disable the Windows 10 upgrade option, there is a Group Policy setting that is designed to facilitate such configurations. And this would ensure yourPCblocks any form of version upgrade on yourPC.
However, the most convenient way of disabling upgrades is via the system configuration method. To disable and block Windows 10 upgrade using this method, follow the step-by-step guide provided above.
With this action, your Windows PC would maintain its original version for as long as possible.
However, when Microsoft pulls support, your device might become vulnerable to malware attacks, unauthorized access, and system malfunctions.
2. Continue using your Windows 7 after Windows 7 EOL (End of Life)
When Microsoft pulls out support forWindows 7, you can continue using the version, albeit at your own risk. To ensure you are not affected by the vulnerability that follows, do the following:
By adhering strictly to the above-stated points, you can continue usingWindows 7for as long as you want. However, you have to be extra careful while surfing the internet, as your unprotected system is now vulnerable to hacks.
3. Use a Virtual Machine
Virtual machinesallow you to imitate anOSon anotheroperating system. Hence, you can easily use this trick to bypass the impendingWindows 7EOL come January 2020.
There are numerous virtual machine programs out there; however, only a handful of them are durable. So, ensure you download and install a reliable one on your computer.
To continue enjoyingWindows 7after the EOL, follow the steps below:
No one can say exactly what Microsoft is cooking up; if they are planning to endWindows 7for good, they’d eventually phase it out with time.
For now, however, you can hang on to yourWindows 7especially if you’re clinging onto apps likeOneDrive for Windows 7or simply upgrade to the latest Windows 10 version.
Windows 7, according to official estimates from Microsoft, constitutes about 30% of all WindowsPCsacross the globe. This means that for every five WindowsPCs, at least one is runningWindows 7.
With this, it is one of the most reliable Windows versions out there, and users are especially impressed with its ease of usage and durability. That’s why we believeWindows 7 is the next Windows XP.
By this time,Windows 7users would be expected to upgrade to a newer version or risk having their system’s security and patch support withdrawn.
Keep in mind that if you choose to use Windows 7 you’ll need a reliable browser to with it, and we have a great guide on how to installThorium browsers on Windows 7, so don’t miss it.
If you’re using optical discs, we have a new article on how tocreate a Windows 7 installation disc, so don’t miss it.
So, if you still want to keep running yourPConWin7after the impending apocalypse, the guides herein would assist you. In this article, we have succinctly described how to stay onWindows 7forever.
Hope you find this helpful.
More about the topics:windows 10,windows 7
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
