Windows 10

Windows 10 is the version of Microsoft's operating system between Windows 8.1 and Windows 11. Released on July 29, 2015, Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 users can upgrade for free. The system introduces new features like Fluent Design, the Continuum interface, search improvements, facial recognition with Windows Hello, DirectX 12 and more.

Downloading and installing Windows 10

To install Windows 10, you can first download the Windows 10 ISO from Uptodown. This ISO file is essential if you want to perform a clean installation. You can run it directly from a previous version of Windows or burn it to a DVD or USB memory stick for a clean installation even on a PC without an operating system.

How to activate Windows 10 and obtain a license

You can use Windows 10 without a Windows 10 key. However, if you do not activate it, a message will appear at the bottom right of the screen to say that your copy of Windows 10 has not been activated. What's more, you won't be able to modify some customization settings of the operating system, such as changing the wallpaper. To enjoy full functionality, you will need to purchase an official Windows 10 license from Microsoft.

Personalize your desktop with Windows 10 wallpapers

After activating Windows 10, you can customize the wallpaper however you like. Change the wallpaper as desired, using a default image, personal photo or by downloading high-quality backgrounds from the Microsoft Store.

Screen capture and recording functions in Windows 10

On Windows 10, you can easily record your PC screen with the "Game Bar" tool. This feature allows you to capture videos of everything you see on your screen, ideal for making tutorials or recording your gaming sessions. What's more, you can take pictures of what is happening on the screen quickly via the screenshot function. You can also use third-party tools, like those created by NVIDIA, AMD or Intel.

Screen projection and connectivity in Windows 10

One of Windows 10's most outstanding features is the ability to transmit your screen to other devices. Click "Connect" to project your desktop to a Smart TV or any other compatible monitor. This makes it easier to give presentations in professional environments or display multimedia content on larger screens. Screen sharing offers a wireless way to stream your PC screen to another device.

Command Prompt (CMD) and PowerShell

Windows 10 includes Command Prompt (CMD) and PowerShell for advanced commands, just as other versions of Windows do. These commands offer you a way to modify and customize the operating system's behavior to your liking, including file management, network settings and system diagnostics.

System upgrades and maintenance

The deadline for Windows 10 security updates is October 14, 2025. After that date, this operating system will no longer receive security updates and therefore be exposed to vulnerabilities. Therefore, it would be best to upgrade to a newer version of Windows before that time. For example, you can enjoy a free upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11.

Format and install Windows 10 from scratch

You have the option to either upgrade from a previous version or install Windows 10 from scratch. You do not need to format Windows 10 to install it from scratch, you can simply start a new installation and keep the previous formatting, preserving your personal files to avoid having to copy them to another internal or external storage unit. One advantage of Windows 10 is that the minimum requirements are not as demanding as they are for Windows 11, including the TPM module.

Safety and security in Windows 10

Windows 10 incorporates robust security tools to protect your data and the integrity of your system. These include the firewall or the well-known Microsoft Defender that provide real-time antivirus and antimalware protection. The database is updated every few days with the latest signatures to ensure that no malware can enter your device.

Windows 10 versions

Home and Pro are the most widely used versions of Windows 10. The Home version offers all the operating system's basic functionalities, while Windows 10 Pro offers additional functions not found in the Home version. These include support for RAM configurations up to 2TB, remote desktop, group policies, virtualization support via Hyper-V, storage drive encryption with BitLocker, and other features. To get the Pro version, you will need to purchase a specific license.

Download the Windows 10 ISO and install an excellent operating system on your PC.