Microsoft downloads Windows 10 even if you don't ask for it
Microsoft admits that Windows 10 is automatically being sent to users via Windows Update


Microsoft really wants you to run Windows 10 - so much so that it's downloading the upgrade to the new OS to users' machines without even asking them.
Windows 10 was first released at the end of July, and anyone wanting to upgrade from Windows 7 or 8 could do so for free.
AnInquirer reader reported finding the full download of Windows 10 in a folder on his PC, despite not asking for the upgrade or even "reserving" a copy, as Microsoft has been hassling many users to do via a pop-up.
The reader was sure of this as he has no plans to upgrade, but discovered a hidden folder taking up 6GB of space after his internet connection slowed to a crawl for a week.
The auto-download is no bug - Microsoft admitted it's intentional."For individuals who have chosen to receive automatic updates through Windows Update, we help upgradable devices get ready for Windows 10 by downloading the files they'll need if they decide to upgrade," the company told theGuardian.
That suggests anyone automatically running Windows Update will get the OS installation files, whether they plan to upgrade or not. While it's a time-saver for anyone who does decide to upgrade, as they don't need to wait for the download, it could be problematic for those on slow broadband or for those on devices such as convertible tablet/laptops with limited storage space.
This isn't the first controversy around Microsoft meddling to hit Windows 10, with complaints surrounding default privacy settings in the new OS after it was discovered Cortana was listening to everything you say, advertisers can track you across the OS and Microsoft online platforms, and more data is being sent for diagnostics than many realise.
Sign up today and you will receive a free copy of our Future Focus 2025 report - the leading guidance on AI, cybersecurity and other IT challenges as per 700+ senior executives
Freelance journalist Nicole Kobie first started writing for ITPro in 2007, with bylines in New Scientist, Wired, PC Pro and many more.
Nicole the author of a book about the history of technology, The Long History of the Future.
-
New chapter, same partners: Keeping the channel aligned with change
Industry Insights How to maintain strong channel partnerships amid evolving strategies and market change
-
Palo Alto Networks snaps up CyberArk in identity security push
News The acquisition marks the latest in a string for Palo Alto Networks
-
The NCSC just urged enterprises to ditch Windows 10 – here’s what you need to know
News The UK cyber agency says those that haven’t migrated to Windows 11 should do so immediately
-
Windows 11 finally overtakes Windows 10 in popularity – but what’s driving this surge?
News It’s been a long time coming, but Windows 11 is finally Microsoft’s most popular operating system
-
Dragging your feet on Windows 11 migration? Rising infostealer threats might change that
News With the clock ticking down to the Windows 10 end of life deadline in October, organizations are dragging their feet on Windows 11 migration – and leaving their devices vulnerable as a result.
-
Recall arrives for Intel and AMD devices after months of controversy
News Microsoft's Recall feature is now available in preview for customers using AMD and Intel devices.
-
With one year to go until Windows 10 end of life, here’s what businesses should do to prepare
News IT teams need to migrate soon or risk a plethora of security and sustainability issues
-
Microsoft is doubling down on Widows Recall, adding new security and privacy features – will this help woo hesitant enterprise users?
News The controversial AI-powered snapshotting tool can be uninstalled, Microsoft says
-
Microsoft patches rollback flaw in Windows 10
News Patch Tuesday includes protection for a Windows 10 "downgrade" style attack after first being spotted in August
-
Companies “wary” of Windows 11 migration challenges as Windows 10 EOL draws closer
News A recent study shows that only a fraction are running Windows 11, despite a rapidly-approaching end of life deadline