Windows 10: Free update changes - Notifier can be deactivated

Since the 29th of July, the one-year deadline, in which users of Windows 7 and 8.1 can change free of charge to Windows 10. If a reservation was necessary in the course of the release, this will be canceled immediately. Anyone who overrides this window for the free update will get the new Microsoft operating system automatically – if not already done. Anyone who is interested in Windows 10 from now on can simply update via Windows Update or perform a clean install via ISO. If you are not interested in Windows 10, you will be given the option to deactivate notifications. This is further clarified by Microsoft on the Windows blog.


Windows 10 is currently offered as an optional update via Windows Update. In the beginning of next year, Microsoft wants to download the download to the "Recommended updates" level. However, Windows 10 will not come up to the "important updates", which should be mandatory for users. Microsoft stresses that the update to Windows 10 is voluntary. On the blog the Redmonder announce on the one hand that in the settings of Windows 7 and 8.1 future options will be present, the notifications for Windows 10 turn off. As a workaround until then Microsoft mentions the possibility to control Windows Updates completely manually. However, this is usually not recommended.


Tools such as the GWX stopper will no longer be necessary with the publication of the corresponding settings. And if you are not satisfied with Windows 10, you can use the already existing Windows 10 downgrade feature to return to your previous system within 31 days. The prerequisite is not to remove the backup of the old system. If you are satisfied, you can simply delete the Windows.old folder on the system partition.


If you are using an unauthorized version of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, you will soon be able to upgrade your system to a legal version of Windows 10. In this case, the update will not be free of charge. The price for the home variant should then be 135 euros and for the pro version 280 euros.