How to get your free Windows 10 upgrade now

Microsoft promised a free Windows 10 upgrade to legit and licensed Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 customers. The updates will appear on these millions upon millions of machines on a staggered rollout basis. Microsoft says 'Your notification to upgrade could come as soon as a few days or in a few weeks.' Which is just not acceptable, but there's a way to trick the system into updating ASAP.

Good thing about this method is that it works even if you haven't signed up for a 'reservation' to receive the free update (just means that you'll need to download a larger file). Hit jump on a quick how-to to getting Windows 10.

Steps:

1. Ensure you've updated your current PC's Windows install to the very latest versions. Same with any hardware drivers you may have. I have a Sony VAIO ultrabook and made sure all the latest drivers were updated.

2. Create a system image backup and repair disc. Ensure all your valuable files are backed up somewhere else and then put them on a USB thumbdrive as well. Don't proceed unless you've completely backed up everything and can restore your system in the event of a crash.

3. Head on over to Microsoft's Download Windows 10 ISO website and choose your corresponding version of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 (i.e. 32Bit or 64Bit). Once that's settled click a 'download tool now' button for that.

4. There are a number of steps post download depending on what the user wants to do. The most expedient way is on the What do you want to do? screen choose “Upgrade this PC now.” Windows 10 Setup will download and then you can perform the in-place upgrade normally. Watch the magic happen, it takes around 40 minutes.

5. Post update, run Windows Update as there will always be some updates. Check Device Manager to ensure all possible drivers are updated or available and  create a recovery drive(Cortana/Start Search, recovery drive) before you jump in to using the system.

6. Enjoy Windows 10, you've waited long enough.

Sources: Thurrot.com, Ars Technica