#Pirate windows 10 pro reddit upgrade#

You can still get critical security updates, though you may not be able to get optional updates or other software, such as Microsoft Security Essentials. You can reset it, but it will continue to turn black until you activate Windows. So what exactly happens if you run a non-genuine current version of Windows?Īs Microsoft describes the situation on its Genuine Windows page, you'll see frequent messages warning you that your copy of Windows may not be genuine. Pirated versions of Windows have especially been prevalent in China where around 75 percent of PC software is not properly licensed, Reuters said, citing recent studies. As such, the company obviously loses a chunk of change anytime a non-licensed version of Windows is installed. PC sales may be in a slump and Windows 8 demand has been lackluster, but Windows continues to be one of Microsoft's core revenue generators, both on the consumer and corporate sides. If a device was considered nongenuine or mislicensed prior to the upgrade, that device will continue to be considered nongenuine or mislicensed after the upgrade. It is not properly licensed, or supported by Microsoft or a trusted partner. Nongenuine Windows is not published by Microsoft.

#Pirate windows 10 pro reddit upgrade#

A spokeswoman for Microsoft clarified the upgrade process to CNET, indicating that the version of Windows 10 doesn't magically become licensed if you upgrade from an unlicensed version: With Windows 10, although nongenuine PCs may be able to upgrade to Windows 10, the upgrade will not change the genuine state of the license. Windows pirates may need to wipe those smiles off their faces.