I have quite a few systems to upgrade so I downloaded the ISO of Windows 10 Home and used Rufus to put it on a USB stick. Now when I try to run the Setup from the USB in Windows 7/8/8.1 I am being asked for a product key and I cannot skip the step. Is there something that I missing?
Afaik that one is missing the crucial activation checks ... . If the upgrade path is legit and the system is properly activated, you can always skip all key prompts.
OP, which editions of Windows do you currently have installed on your computers? If you have Windows 8.1 Single Language, you'll need the corresponding iso: Windows 10 Single Language, not the Multiple-Editions one. When you use the RIGHT iso, it doesn't ask for keys during the upgrade process.
I got to this answer too late, I did the media creation tool upgrade which takes very long instead. I just noticed afterwards the laptop was Windows 7 Pro and I was trying Home and Home single language. I will make sure I have the right ISO on my next upgrades.
How about Windows 8.1 Enterprise activated with MAK? Can it be upgraded directly from Windows 10 ISO? If so, which version is applicable Thanks
You could use mediacreatetool once to create the proper versions of USB installers. I upgraded quite a few systems on launch day with a mediacreatetool USB drive without issues. I upgraded a few stubborn systems via mediacreatool / upgrade this unit.
I've managed to do the upgrade on a couple windows 8.1 systems using the Windows 10 ISO (not single language). Once completed and activated I do a clean install using the same ISO on a USB stick. Problem is it will not activate after the clean install. I read a few places that you must use a valid microsoft account for this to work. Is this correct?