Microsoft shuts down free Windows 11 upgrade path via Windows 7 keys

This loophole had allowed users to upgrade from Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 11 at no cost.

Microsoft has officially closed the loophole that allowed Windows 7 and Windows 8 keys to activate Windows 11, meaning users will need to purchase a legit Windows 11 key for activation.

So, when attempting to activate Windows 11 using a Windows 7 key, users receive an error message stating, "We can't activate Windows on this device because you don't have a valid digital license or product key."

Existing Windows 11 installations or upgrades from Windows 7 and 8 will not be affected, as they already have a valid digital license. However, users looking to utilize this loophole in the future will need to purchase a legit Windows 11 key to activate the operating system.