Windows 10 Frequently Asked Questions

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Tim Tetrick

Now that Windows 10 has released, I wanted to share a few of the frequently asked questions (and answers!) that I am getting from partners so far.

Can I use the free upgrade offer to do a clean install?  

You cannot use the free upgrade offer to perform a clean install on the first attempt. You must first upgrade from the qualifying version of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1.  This can be done via the Get Windows 10 app (Windows Update) or by using the Media Creation Tool to create your own installation media using either a USB flash drive or DVD.

Can I reinstall Windows 10 (including doing a clean install) on my computer after upgrading?  

Yes. Once you’ve upgraded to Windows 10 using the free upgrade offer, you will be able to reinstall, including a clean install, on the same device. You won’t need a product key for re-activations on the same hardware. If you make a meaningful change to your hardware, you may need to contact customer support to help with activation. You’ll also be able to create your own installation media, like a USB drive or DVD, and use that to upgrade your device or reinstall after you’ve upgraded. To learn more, click here.

I have multiple machines to upgrade. Can I download the update once and use that to update all of my machines?

Yes, you can use the Media Creation Tool to create your own installation media.  This eliminates the need to download the installation files for each machine.

What about the Enterprise version? Since that is not included in the free upgrade offer, how can I get access to Windows 10 Enterprise?

Microsoft Partners with an MAPS (Microsoft Action Pack Subscription) or a silver or gold competency get IUR (Internal Use Rights) benefits to Windows 10 Enterprise.  To access your internal use rights software, go to https://www.microsoft.com/msppdd/.  For more information and details on IUR benefits, including number of license grants across MAPS and silver or gold competencies, go to https://mspartner.microsoft.com/en/us/pages/membership/internal-use-software.aspx

Thanks for reading and hope this was helpful!  You can find additional Windows 10 FAQs at https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/Windows-10-faq.