I Have Windows 7, am I in Trouble?

In the past, a reader asked, “…once Microsoft is not doing Windows updates how safe is my computer going to be? Yes, I still have Windows 7.” Since many of our customers are in the same situation, we want to address the question – Is Windows 7 still a safe choice?

From speaking with our users, Windows 7 seems to be a fan favorite when it comes to Windows’ operating systems. Many of our Windows users have either Windows 10 or 7, with Windows 8 and 8.1 being the least popular.

If you are not sure which version of Windows you are currently using, check out our article here to find out.

FixMeTip: Your FixMeStick will continue to work on Windows 7 computers, even now that Microsoft has stopped supporting it!

What does this mean?

Microsoft ended mainstream support for Windows 7 on January 13, 2015. However, as of January 14, 2020, they “no longer provide security updates or support for PCs running Windows 7”.

This means even if security issues are found in the Windows 7 software, Microsoft will not fix these. This puts you at greater risk for viruses and malware so it is no longer safe to use your Windows 7 computer on the Internet.

Can I still use my computer?

Yes, your computer will still turn on, and you’ll still be able to use your programs and surf the Internet. However, applications such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox will eventually also stop supporting Windows 7. Microsoft Edge already doesn’t work on Windows 7.

Additionally, you might experience hardware issues, such as wireless keyboards and mice not pairing properly with your Windows 7 computer. Or new drivers to connect speakers or printers might not work properly.

Other programs like your antivirus will likely stop supporting Windows 7 too.

What steps should I take?

While it’s possible to install Windows 10 on your older device, Microsoft does not recommend it.

You can also purchase a brand new computer that comes with the Windows 10 software. But keep in mind this will cost at least $500 or more and is not environmentally friendly.

Researchers at the United Nations University report that since 2000, e-waste amounts have grown from 20 million to 50 million tonnes per year. They forecast the amount of e-waste will more than double by 2050, to reach approximately 111 million tonnes per year. How much do you know about e-waste? Take our quiz here to test your knowledge!

But we have a solution – the StartMeStick!

Save money and breathe new life into your old computer with the StartMeStick!

Simply plug in the StartMeStick and revive your own computer by using this fast, private, and secure operating system on a stick. Everything you do online you can do with the StartMeStick. It’s designed to never slow down, break down, or become infected. 

The StartMeStick can be used by anybody to win against frustrating computer issues, like an outdated operating system. The StartMeStick eliminates the need to replace computers when they slow down or stop receiving security updates. It is like brand new every time you use it! Learn more here.

Should I Upgrade to Windows 10?

Obviously, one of your options is to upgrade to a later version of Windows that is still supported like 8, 8.1 or 10. Microsoft offered their customers a free Windows 10 upgrade back in 2016, but this offer is no longer available.

Note: Microsoft does not recommend updating your Windows 7 computers to Windows 10 because Windows 10 will be slow and unstable on your older device.

Today, the cost to get the full version of the Windows 10 software is over $100 for a single computer license. You can also purchase a brand new computer that comes with the Windows 10 software. But keep in mind this costs hundred of dollars and new, affordable PCs are hard to come by right now!

The StartMeStick is an easy solution that allows you to keep your computer, save money, and reduce waste. Get yours HERE!

Does this happen with Apple?

Windows is actually more transparent in this process than Apple. Microsoft lets consumers know end-of-support dates well in advance of phasing out software.

However, with Apple, it’s more of a guessing game. Remember when they used to name their operating systems after big cats? Well, you didn’t receive a notification but security updates for Version 10.8 Mountain Lion are long gone.

Now, Apple names newer operating system versions after California’s scenic landscapes. The pattern Mac watchers have noticed is that Apple supports security updates for three operating systems at a time– which now means Mojave, Catalina, and Big Sur.

If you’re on Mojave or earlier (determine which OS you have here) you might want to do that update as long as the software supports your hardware (to check click here).

Know someone with Windows 7? Share this article with them to keep them informed!

144 comments

  1. Paul Paton -

    Thank you for the update re Win 7 support until 2020…I am still getting updates to my Win 7 Pro as of this day…

    • Chuck -

      Well it’s not 2020 yet Paul.
      What part if that did t you understand?

    • Byron Frederick -

      I’m still getting updates to my Win 7 Pro. Went through a reboot maybe 3 times before it came to life. I was begining to worry.

  2. Yonathan Sadok (Yoni) Kibru -

    Thank you…I have Windows 10 now. I don’t have Windows 7 anymore. Windows XP and Server 2003 recently reached their end of life.

  3. Anonymous -

    Sad that 7 will be dropped… it is a jewel of a program.

  4. Anonymous -

    Ok so i have the 7 pro does that get ditched as well

    • Linda -

      Hi there, we recommend you to check out this Microsoft page here to better answer this question.

  5. Anonymous -

    Please cancel my subscription with Fix Me Stick.
    Sincerely,
    Gail and Gerry Toop

  6. Anonymous -

    Well….you blew out my computer with your last shift to “10”…………..so please forward $385.00 (Cnd) and I will consider the upgrade….
    respectfully
    Lori

    • Linda -

      Hi Lori, to receive support for your FixMeStick, you can contact us at support@fixmestick.com. We are not affiliated with Microsoft. You’ll have to contact Microsoft support at this link here for support on Windows 10.

  7. James Seymour -

    Good Luck. Programers do not ask for much. It is making ends meet that is a stunt!

    • Cindy Chapman -

      I’m going to get a Mac instead of upgrading my windows 7. Will the FixMeStick still work with Mac?

      • Keegan Anfield -

        Hi Cindy,

        It depends what FixMeStick you have. If you send us an email to support@FixMeStick.com with the serial number from the side of your USB we can look into this for you.

        Best,
        Keegan

  8. Chuck -

    When they force me to use Windows 10 I will smash my computer and do without.

    • Dave Simpson -

      I hear that Chuck. I wonder how well anti spyware works on an operating system that as a secondary role, IS spyware. LOL

  9. Earl Merritt -

    So essentially Windows again creates a market for Windows 10 to those who use Windows 7. Win 7 was to us users better than Win 10 and Microsoft just makes us into patsies again like they did when they stopped Windows Pro XP. Anything to make money from us is the whole story behind Microsoft as far as I am concerned. Now I know why hackers stopped using windows some years ago. I think I may look into what the hackers use.

  10. Anonymous -

    I HAVE FIX ME STICK, THAT MEANS THAT I HAVE TO UPGRADE MY FIX ME STICK TO. BECAUSE I HAVE WINDOWS 7 . WILL IT BE A PROBLEM? THANKS FOR THE TIP

    • Linda -

      Hi there, your FixMeStick will continue to work on Windows 7 computers. It will receive virus updates automatically every time you start a scan.

  11. Carol Evans -

    I just bought Fix Me Stick that is suppose to last me a life time and now you’re shutting if off. How do I get my money back for this scam?

    • Linda -

      Hi Carol, your FixMeStick will continue to work on your Windows 7 computer, for the Lifetime of this computer. Sorry about the confusion. It’s Microsoft that is ending support for Windows 7 computers.

  12. Rich Pagoria -

    Is their a third party Windows 7 emulator available so I don’t have to learn yet another Windows.

  13. ANA sancha Victoria -

    if I pay the $100 fee for windows 10, will my mouse(built in) keyboard, etc work the same as with windows 7 or shall I have to use hands on screen to operate functions?
    PLEASE answer ……..
    thanks

    • Linda -

      Hi Ana, updating your computer to Windows 7 will not affect the functioning of your keyboard and mouse. For more information, you can contact Microsoft using this link here.

  14. SIS -

    Oh no!! I love WINDOWS 7!! Ugh, the thought of W10 …
    Darn shame.

  15. Anonymous -

    If they drop Win 7 support they should loose all intellectual property rights for it and it becomes public domain. Had win 10 and it was garbage, nothing worked well! Eventually an update deleted it. Yup……

    • Linda -

      Hi Ron, the FixMeStick works differently than regular antivirus programs. It will scan your computer when your main system is off, so it will find any viruses that are hiding on it. We recommend using it alongside an antivirus program of your choice. The antivirus program we like to use is McAfee.

    • Anonymous -

      Ron I have used Vipre since late 2013 it has worked great for me I am on the Internet all the time . Around I want to say it was I added FixMeStick . While I’m very glad I did it has only caught a couple of very minor things that got past Vipre . And my vipre is the old version . they also have wonderful US based tech support . And FYI I got both Vipre and FixMeStick at HSN(home shopping network because I got smoking deals that I could pay off monthly . 2 examples that they have are Vipre Avanced Security Antivirus Software lifetime(of the computer) licenses for 10 PCs $89.99 or 3 payments of $30.00 free shipping and FixMeStick Plus Lifetime(computer) Virus Removal for 6 PCs or Apple Macs and as you can tell just from here they have Great Support and I’m very sure it is US based $99.99 or 3 payments of $33.33 s&h $5.50 To get payments you need a bank debit card or bank linked paypal .I give both of these 5 stars . use the code NEW2019 for $10 off first order Hoped this helped you if not it helps somebody .

      • Linda -

        Hi Ron, thanks for your support in FixMeStick! We actually run our services out of our headquarters in Montreal up in Canada, including our tech support.

  16. Wayne Hubbard -

    I’ve had 7 for a long time now and it’s worked very well….my computer tech expert advises 10 now that they have enhanced security etc…so I will be switching in the next month.

    • Linda -

      Hi John, you can check out this page from Microsoft here to better answer your question.

  17. Bernadette -

    Your email message to me indicated that I have Windows 7….I use my FixStick at least once a month or more, but I no longer have Windows 7 and have updated to Windows 10….Doesn’t my current FixStick run accordingly w/Windows 10 when scanning my files?

    • Linda -

      Hi Bernadette, FixMeStick works on both Windows 7 and Windows 10 computers! If you run into any problems using it, you can email us at support@fixmestick.com.

  18. Joe Calafell -

    Hi there,
    I’ve learned to use Linux ( Mint ) and now can’t even remember how to use Windows ( anything ) anymore and love the Linux based operating system. It’s not a hard learning curve, and a very straightforward system to install, and to use. The best part is NO VIRUSES to speak of. It installed very simply on my Windows laptop, and I doubt that I’ll EVER go back to Windows ( bye bye Bill Gates ) .

  19. Jay Michael Mullin -

    I have Win 10 on my two laptops, one of which I have removed the battery and put to sleep, the other is on the kitchen table to play card games. I DETEST Windows 8 & 10; it has been a constant problem. I will stay with Win7 on my deskktop and do a weekly FIXMESTICK! I’m 79 and can NOT see switching to another OS. When it fails, it fails and the entire chain of programs, sellers, and e-mail will drop into the sea and I will go back to the 1980s! BTW, I did buy the Windows 10 [with disc] and have never installed it.

  20. Robert Allen -

    windows vista… what will happen with it? The same or different? Thanks!

    • Linda -

      Hi Robert, Microsoft already ended support for Windows Vista two years ago!

  21. Garland -

    I think the Linux is a better choice than microsoft at this point, however I would have thought that some one would have come out with a straight up UNIX operating system since Hewlett Packard has used it for years. HP makes computers, so why not put out a straight up Hewlett Packard Unix operating system? Probably because you would never need another computer again! Linux is ok’ but it mimicks Unix in almost every way. With a straight up Unix operating System however you won’t get that little message, (“are you sure you want to…) ; it will just execute the command! What are you thoughts on this? HP can do it, but I just don’t understand why they won’t!

  22. Kathleen Spear -

    Thanks, FIXMESTICK. I haven’t read about this anywhere else. I have Windows 10 but I know friends who have Windows 7. The email you sent was easy for me to understand and I appreciate you explaining what needs to be done and who doesn’t have to do anything.

    • Linda -

      You’re welcome, Kathleen, and thanks for your feedback! 🙂

  23. Gordon Heffler -

    Look, I use W7 now and still have an operating XP pc as well….this upgrade required to 10 is absolute hype by MS. I use my pc’s not to surf but as audio/video machines and XP was the greatest OS for that…then MS dumbed down W7 so that everything became much harder to control audio and video and now they are threatening us again with this W10 which everyone knows is crap. MY XP and W7 has had updates turned off for years and both still function perfectly (not connected to internet) and now since everyone under the age of 30 seems to want to go internetting on their phones…a pc not going on internet and no updates works fine! (If it ain’t broke why fix it or maybe die trying to fix it) MS keep your idiot proof W10 that will not work properly for audio video in house as I have 3 spare W7 machines sitting in the closet and intend to use them for the rest of my time on the planet! Keep your safe browsers and updates as I for one dont need them…now or after Jan 2020…my machines will be still operating well into the 2030’s even if I am not!

  24. Sue -

    I really liked windows 7. I have tried windows 10 and hated it. I think I am going to a chromebook.

  25. Anonymous -

    I’m glad I upgraded to windows 10 when I did. I will continue to run fix me stick. Thank you.

  26. Andy -

    I REFUSE to upgrade to Windows 10!!!! After Win 7 support ends how longwill I be able to download the previous updates if I need to reinstall Win 7 (such as after a harddrive replacement)? Thanks

  27. Becky Muraro -

    I am with Chuck I will smash my computer. Windows 10 sucks! I like my photo gallery with Windows 7 so I have to use Windows 7. I guess I will live in danger because billionaire Gates will not cover all his customers that have bought his products for years. This is bull!

  28. doran -

    been nice knowing ya… I’m not going to use windows 10 … ever.

  29. Mizuson -

    Have W-7. Had W-10 and trash caned it. If MS won’t support W-7 any longer guess I’ll go back to the telephone and pen & paper.

  30. Michael -

    Thank you for the reminder, had already received notice from Microsoft. Was just wondering if my present FixMe Stick will still work on a computer with Windows 10 (which I am going to buy), or will I have to buy another one?

    • Linda -

      Hi Michael, the FixMeStick works on Windows 10 computers. In fact, the majority of our customers have Windows 10 and we even made a video on how you can start a scan on there. You can watch the video linked here.

  31. Gayle Heffernan -

    What does it mean in your post that Google Chrome will eventually drop their browser from WIn 7 users?
    As well, if Microsoft stops supporting security issues do you need an antivirus etc program such as McPhee to safeguard your computer if you still want to run Win 7?
    Thank you

    • Linda -

      Hi Gayle, that’s a good question. Google Chrome might stop updating their browsers for security and other fixes on Windows 7. But currently, they have not announced any plans to do so. And yes, once Microsoft stops supporting security updates to Windows 7, you will have to depend on antivirus software like McAfee to stay protected.

  32. Terri -

    I’ve had amazing support from the good folks at FixMeStick whenever there was need. So I really appreciate these notices. These notices also boast of the quality support everyone is privy to thanks to FixMeStick operations.

    I use Win 8.1. Love it. Had an HP Win 7 machine, still have it actually. But it was a nightmare. Loved XP. Was an amazing program. Love my Win 8.1 almost just as much. Love the fact that my systems with the Win 8.1 was also touchscreen. Huge plus, especially for zooming pages really large when necessary. Hated being forced to do with Win10 trojanized update. Killed out the touchscreen in my laptop. Reverting back to Win 8.1 did not fix it. Microsoft did not want to help & they new this was an issue. Still enjoy my laptop otherwise. But neither my desktop or laptop have ever worked as well after that MS “update” fiasco. Couldn’t get rid of Win10 fast enough. Sooo miss how my previously wonderful machines worked before Win10 was forced on us. ugh. That forced trojanized win10 update converted a lot of folks to Apple as a result. Can’t fault them for it. Was MS’s fault. For now, I make due with what I got to work with. Thankfully, NOT Win 10, but still.

    Die hard Apple fans say there’s nothing better. I’d like to give them a try but have to wait till funds present themselves. O well. Not a Google fan by any means either. Easiest way to get hacked, no matter how “private” you have your settings. Google used to offer support for their services. Was easy to talk to somebody. Not anymore. Now they offer NO support. Very sad. Forum support is not the same as “Direct” support, something Google used to provide. Microsoft used to as well. Now you’re lucky IF you can get “Forum” support. ugh. So have my Android as restricted as possible – phone, text & Kindle reads. That’s it. … So while MS’s Explorer Browser might not be safe, Google’s Browsers are even worse. So wisdom dictates finding a “Secure Browser” outside the realm of MS & Google, like Firefox, and make that your default browser. There are a couple others like DuckDuckGo as well, which you can find within the Firefox settings. Just research safest & most secure web browsers. And if possible, stay away from getting a Gmail account. Once you have an issue with your Gmail, it’s virtually impossible to fix it, IF you are even able to delete it. But then you still have to go through all your other online accounts to update both their login & password information, and change your phone number as well. If they gain access to your Gmail then they have access to ALL your accounts & personal systems, including your modem router. :0(

    • Linda -

      Hi Terri, thanks for sharing these tips and your experiences with Windows updates and Gmail! It’s great to see that you are taking many preventative measures to keep yourself safe online!

    • Dave Simpson -

      I despise Google as well, but over 90% of all internet searches go thru them, They own every piece of the pie, Chrome, Android, G-mail, Yahoo.com, YouTube to list a few. Look up Alphabet(Googles “parent corp”). But I guess owning 90% of a worlds market share isn’t a monopoly!!! Ya right.

  33. Dex -

    Does fixmestick work on an apple iPhone and if so how 6s phone

    • Linda -

      Hi Dex, unfortunately, the current version of the FixMeStick was not designed to support tablet or smartphone use. You can only use it on Windows or Mac computers.

  34. Dave Simpson -

    I love Windows 7 pro, as I did XP pro and all it takes to hate Windows 10 is to value your American constitutional rights and to understand that once you agree to the EULA of Windows 10, you forfeit some of those rights, rights to privacy in your own home, and right to due process of the courts as to search warrants and such. I suggest to anyone, read every page of the End User License Agreement, it’s all written out right there.
    As to Fix Me Stick , I love it and I have much faith in it. It has saved me a pc once for sure. I use it in tandem with system mechanics, and I like the fact it operates differently than most all others deep in the core of operations when the programs are dormant. Very clever I think personally. Great product. If you use it often, hopefully you will never know how much you WOULD have needed it. Thank you FIX ME STICK.

    • Dave Simpson -

      p.s. Linda, wow you are so busy commenting and helping everyone, thank you for being another reason to like FIX ME STICK. 🙂

      • Linda -

        Hi Dave, thanks for being a FixMeStick customer and for letting us know about the EULA statements in Windows 10. I’m sure it will make many people think twice before they skip through the EULA next time. If you require assistance using your FixMeStick in the future, definitely reach out to us and we’ll be very happy to help!

  35. Anonymous -

    I through that the fix me stick cover this that it would protect my computer for the life of my computer why is it not?
    Sometimes does not sound right.

    • Linda -

      Hi there, if you have a FixMeStick with Lifetime licenses on it, you can use it for the Lifetime of your computers. If you are still unsure about this, you can send the serial number of your FixMeStick to support@fixmestick.com and one of our agents can check this information for you.

  36. Lynn Johnson -

    I have had a problem with Chrome ‘extensions’ and now it seems to be looping and caught in malware. I was hoping that the FIXMESTICK would clean that up, but I have run it twice and it does not help. Can you help me with this?

    Lynn

    • Keegan Anfield -

      Hi Lynn,

      Thanks for reaching out! Sometimes FixMeStick won’t remove these things because we accidentally gave them permission to be there (often because they come bundled with other things). If you send us an email to support@fixmestick.com someone can remote connect and manually remove it for you.

      Best,
      Keegan

  37. Anton -

    As of today (5th August 2019) it is still possible to upgrade to Windows 10 for free. As long as you have a valid Windows 7 (or later OS) licence it will install using that licence. Windows 10 can be downloaded directly from Microsoft for free so don’t consider alternative download locations.

  38. Trina -

    I LOVE Windows 7. Tried Windows 10 and absolutely hated it. Took laptop to Best Buy and had them put 7 back on. I am really upset. I understand win 7. Obviously to get people to buy win 10 or use it, they had to take away win 7. Tells you that win 10 is not worth the money. I am old school, and mainly do family research, do google things. I really tried to understand win 10, but too confusing for me. (am I getting old? 🙁 ….)

  39. Laurie Mark -

    If I buy a Chromebook will my life-time for 3 computers still work on it?
    (I have Windows 7 right now on an old HP laptop)
    Thank you,
    Laurie

    • Linda -

      Hi Laurie, thanks for your interest! Unfortunately, the FixMeStick does not work on Chromebooks.

  40. Sharon -

    Hi, I have a windows 7 computer and use Internet Explorer. Would it be possible to have someone switch me over to Firefox? I’m not sure how to do it myself.

    • Linda -

      Hi Sharon, to better assist you with this, simply email us at support@fixmestick.com with the serial number on the side of your FixMeStick and we’ll assist you from there. Thanks!

  41. Colin Starratt -

    I purchased a FixMeStick in a promotional deal that lets me use it on 3 computers for life. I have now selected 3 of our various computers and laptops and initiated the FMS on them. If I am forced to change my desktop’s operating system to W10 or purchase a new computer with W10 in it, will this affect my use of my FMS? If so, how can I switch to the new OS or computer without having to pay fees forever after? The one-time payment was the main reason I decided to purchase the FMS.

    • Linda -

      Hi Colin, you can continue to use your FixMeStick on your Windows 7 computers. If you find that your FixMeStick stops recognizing your computers after you update them to Windows 10, send us an email at support@fixmestick.com and we’ll look into it for you.

    • Linda -

      Hi Sue, switching to Linux is definitely possible but may take some work for those who are not good with tech. Alternatively, you can try running a StartMeStick, our latest product that is built on Linux.

  42. Joanne -

    Thank you for the FixMeStick explanation. I prefer windows 7 computer. I am happy using FixMeStick & shall use more often! Using GOOGLE internet.

  43. Peter H -

    I have a used computer with WIN 7, but it’s never been updated. 1) How long does it take to go thru all the updates? 2) Is there a disk that has all the updates? 3) I don’t have the license number for WIN 7, will that stop me from getting updates over the ‘net? Comments appreciated! TY folks!

  44. Paul Wilson -

    Please provide more information on how I can obtain more protection.

  45. Anonymous -

    I’ve been on Windows 10 for the past year. Still will not work on my PC. I have submitted several complaints alredy. When my subscription ends I may not renew.

  46. Fred Olds -

    I have upgraded to windows 10 but retained my saved stuff in windows 7. I’ve run my FixMeStick many times and it has worked well so far. Do I need to do something more?

    • Linda -

      Hi Fred, thanks for reading our blog! Since you have Windows 10 now, you will not be affected. All we recommend is using your FixMeStick once a month to check if you have any viruses hiding on your computer.

  47. Lynn Plesetz -

    Thanks FMS for all this info. I was not aware that MS was not going to do updates on Win 7 after Jan 2020. I too love my old Dell w Win 7 that I’ve had for years. Still runs good although a little slow. I get my Wi-Fi through Cox and they provide McAfee security. Should I contact them to make sure my computer will still be secure. Do not have the $$$ to upgrade to a newer computer and after reading comments sounds like Win10 is junk. Also thought if I did get a new computer would get a Chromebook. My understanding was they are secure and don’t need an anti virus protection. Will start doing a weekly scan and hope doing that and with the McAfee from Cox my computer will be safe. I have Firefox on it also but use Google for searches. Maybe should switch to another search engine. Hope you can advise thanks.

  48. Gerry Fitzgerald -

    For everybody’s info… A disc copy of Windows 10 costs $129 at the Microsoft Store. My hard drive crashed and that’s what it cost me. As for the FixMeStick, I run it once a week and I love it!

  49. Granny Fucious -

    I didn’t take time to read through all the Q&A’s. My question is… If I get Windows 10, will I be able to transfer all the Windows 7 photos and documents that I have saved to SanDisk and thumb drives to Windows 10? I tried 10 on an HP computer purchased from Home Shopping and could not have hated it more. Fortunately, Home Shopping has a good return program so after seeing how awful 10 was, I was able to return the PC with no restocking fees, or any charges. Also horrible was that the new HP only came with “trials” of several Microsoft software items which after 6 months you have to pay for, or they won’t work on your new PC. And, there were continual Microsoft “pop ups” offering bigger, better, new items, and these were constantly in my face…I disabled them and they came right back every time. I have never hated anything more, and did log on to Microsoft links and reviews and told them all about it.
    Sorry for the rant, but my question is – will my photos and documents integrate into 10 if I have to get it?

    • Linda -

      Hi there, thank you for sharing your experience on Windows 10. To answer your question, as long as your computer has functioning USB ports, you should be able to plug in your thumb drives and transfer your photos from your thumb drives to your Windows 10 system. Windows 10 also has built-in applications that will allow you to open, edit, and view these photos.

  50. Tom Kanna Ki -

    Will the “Startmestick” work on a Dell Microsoft XP system. Would like to use it to do searches and stuff but it doesn’t work, and use it only for local processing.

    • Linda -

      Hi Tom, StartMeStick should work on this computer. Simply follow these instructions:
      1. Turn off your computer and plug in StartMeStick.
      2. Turn on your computer and immediately start tapping on the F12 key to bring up the Boot Device Options.
      3. Use your arrow keys on the keyboard to select StartMeStick (it can also be called USB Harddrive) and press the ENTER key.
      If this is not working, contact us using this form here and we’ll look into it for you.

  51. Constance Simpson -

    When I purchased my Fix Me Stick it indicated it was good for two computers. I only installed it on the one I had, that was several years ago. When I replace my computer can I just install the second program from the Fix Me Stick I have to the new computer?

    • Keegan Anfield -

      Hi Sally,

      Since you have a Lifetime FixMeStick you can just install on the new computer when you get it.

      Let us know if you have any other questions!

  52. Trudy -

    I currently use my FixMeStick on a,Windows7 laptop. Will I have to get a new FixMeStick when I go to Windows10 or can I use the same one?

    • Keegan Anfield -

      You can use the same one! It is compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8/8.1 and 10!

  53. Dennis -

    My FixMeStick stopped working a few months after I installed it. Your techs offered some ineffective troubleshooting then concluded it must have been some program I installed that was preventing it from working. The system does not recognize it and continues to keep requesting to be plugged in to this day.

    • Keegan Anfield -

      Hi Dennis,

      We’re sorry you’ve had any issues using your FixMeStick. It looks like your have a Lifetime FixMeStick and the last update is from 2017. We’ve made a lot of improvements to FixMeStick since then. If you’d like to send us an email to support@FixMeStick.com we can see if our latest software is compatible with your system now.

      Looking forward to helping you.

      Best,
      The FixMeStick Team

      • Elizabeth Kerepesi -

        Thanks for all the information. When Microsoft offered the free upgrade to Windows 10 from Windows 7, I tried. First of all I hated it, my Microsoft office 2010 is not compatible with it, true they offer office 365 that is a monthly subscription. I have purchased office 2010, I paid for it already I have several cds pictures and documents saved with that system when I used Windows 10 it was not compatible with several programs. How many times I have to upgrade and copy everything to be able to see my old pictures. I am a low income pensioners, I can not afford these extra charges. Now everything is on computer but they constantly changing and want extra money from us poor people Mr. Bill Gates want to be richer and richer I am sorry but I had to went my problem.

        • Keegan Anfield -

          Hi Elizabeth, sorry for your troubles. If you want to keep your old computer you might want to consider the StartMeStick. It turns any computer into a fast, secure, and private one. Therefore you can keep your old computer for Microsoft office and other pre-installed programs but if you want to be secure online you simply plug in the StartMeStick and are good to go. You can check it out here: http://www.StartMeStick.com.

    • Keegan Anfield -

      Hi Mary,

      If you have Windows 7, the StartMeStick might be something that could help you. It’s also great if you have a new computer but want to make sure you’re private and secure online. You can get more information here: http://www.StartMeStick.com or email us at support@StartMeStick.com.

      All the best,
      The FixMeStick Team

  54. Joseph -

    I have had FixMeStick for quite some time now and have never run into any issues.. Works perfectly on my Windows 7, and old XP Pro. I have a windows 10 USB install stick that I purchased, however for some unknown reason, windows 10 does not install my my computer. I get a message that “there is something wrong with your computer”. Interesting message and no other explanation for what this means. LOL Clearly this is a Microsoft issue, and this tells me that I had better keep my Windows 7 Professional and the old XP Pro (for my weather programs). I will continue to use FixMeStick, and thus far have not found any viruses or trojans on my systems. I love FixMeStick and usually run it once each month. I also run Malwarebytes which works great. Thank you FixMeStick!

    • Linda -

      Hi Joseph, thanks for sharing your experience on Windows 10 with us! For your reference, if you need to contact Microsoft you can look up their phone number based on your location here. And of course, if you ever run into any issues with your FixMeStick, feel free to contact us!

  55. Steveguy -

    I have used my Fix-Me-Stick for awhile now and it seems to work for me always. I can’t believe that some of these messages are connecting FMS with Microsoft, I am in my 80’s and moved dirt all my life and even I know that a connection between the two is ridiculous. Thanks for the updates. H.N.Y. !

  56. Anna -

    I had windows 7 and was able to upgrade to windows 10 today for free. Took about 1 hr. It saved all my files and programs. Very easy. Go to cnet.com.

  57. Tigerzateal Irizarry -

    Hi I had a question you guys have sending me the fix me stick in the start me stick but it’s saying it’s for laptops or desktops it looks like is there anything for tablets

    • Linda -

      Hi Tigerzateal, I can confirm that FixMeStick and StartMeStick will only work on laptop and desktop computers and they will not work on tablets. Sorry about the inconvenience.

  58. Anonymous -

    Thanks for the update now where do I go to get the Start me stick and what is the cost. When I bought the fixmestick I got it at Walmart. Paid $59.00 and every dime of it has been worth it. Just bought this HP and it runs like a turtle.

  59. Mingin Irn -

    The solution is simple. Keep Windows 7, as I will do. but make your computer into a “dual os,” by adding Linux 19.3. When the “dual os” is setup, during the computer “booting process,” a “screen” will appear, allowing you to either load Windows 7 or Linux as your os. Therefore, Windows 7 can still be used to run applications such as “Microsoft Office,” but for other implementations requiring security measures, such as “internet activities,” the Linux os can be used. A computer’s internal storage can be divided “equally” in a “dual os” scenario. I’m former Military Intelligence and from my experiences and knowledge I’ve acquired during my life experiences, I wanted to suggest an “unorthodox ideology” that even though you have WINDOWS 7… all is NOT LOST… and there is ALWAYS A WAY… “AROUND THE SYSTEM.” (Heck, I’m an Author & maybe I should write about this in one of my books.)

    • Keegan Anfield -

      That’s a great suggestion! The StartMeStick is an Linux based system on an external device. It’s similar to the solution you suggested above but made simple for non-technical people. You can check it out here: http://www.startmestick.com.

  60. Ellen McCullough -

    I have already paid for a Lifetime StartMe Stick from QVC but I am on a waiting list. Payment is not taken until dispatch. Is there anything I can do in the meantime to be able to use same as my previous one has been non active since 13/01/2021?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Ellen,

      Good question! If your current StartMeStick subscription is expired, you can always renew the subscription to get some use out of the stick.

      In this case, I’d recommend reaching out to us at support@fixmestick.com where can we can look into your subscription options!

  61. Anonymous -

    I could never get FixMe Stick to work and i have Windows 10 I would never buy it again

    • Jonathan -

      Hi there,

      I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been running into difficulty with your FixMeStick!

      If you’d like to give it another go, I always suggest reaching out to us at support@fixmestick.com, where we can help you find a solution!

  62. Jon -

    I see it’s been a long time since someone set you people a message on this. I have a windows 7 and I’m still using in a lot. Bought a windows 10 in November of 2019 and I bet I have less than 30 hours on it. I just hate windows 10 and want to keep using my trusty windows 7. Can I still use the Start me stick to keep using my windows 7. Thank you for any help that you can give me.

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Jon,

      The StartMeStick is designed to be a close replication of Windows 7 (which is definitely a fan favourite when it comes to old operating systems). The StartMeStick can be used on Windows 7 computers, effectively providing users with a secure and fast way to use their older computers without fear of being having their systems compromised!

      If you’re curious, you can read up on the StartMeStick here

  63. Dan Shelby -

    What does StartMeStick do that FixMeStick doesn’t do and vise versa? e.g., why get both of them?

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Dan,

      Good question!

      The StartMeStick is a plug-in operating system that revitalizes computers that may no longer be fully functional. The FixMeStick, on the other hand, is a virus removal device that removes viruses from your normal operating system.

      Further, the StartMeStick resets to factory settings after each use, meaning it never slows down, and it doesn’t collect the junk that causes frustrating errors, crashes, freezes, and slowdowns on your regular operating system.

      If you’re interested, you can read more on the StartMeStick here or you can read about the FixMeStick here

  64. Rosemary -

    I got the emails that we all had to upgrade to Windows 10. As a senior I hate these upgrades and the need to continuously learn how to operate the computer. However, I too my netbook to a pc doctor who charge me $100 to upgrade to invisi10. Immediately I couldn’t find files and thus far have ‘lost’ half of my photos, about a decade’s worth that were really important. I have run fixmestick as I bought the one with the lifetime use, but nothing seemed to change. I now have just bought your latest startmestick…..will this return my computer to its previous state as I would like to retrieve my photos. Or do I have to go to pc doctor again for them to download my old files????

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Rosemary,

      Unfortunately, while the StartMeStick is a great solution for reviving your old computer to get it up and running again, it won’t be able to restore your computer to its previous state. In this case, I would either recommend contacting our support team at support@fixmestick.com for further help, or potentially bringing it into the PC doctor to see if your old files can be retrieved!

  65. Tal Noble -

    StartMeStick sounds like a wonderful idea. One problem however. I looked throughout your extensive presentation and I did not find anything that indicates that with StartMeStick I can still use my Windows 7 with my Google Chrome for up front operations. Will StartMeStick keep this all working for me as it is now?

    TalDNoble@GMX.com

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Tal,

      Good question! Essentially, the StartMeStick works as a portable operating system. While using the StartMeStick, you won’t be using Windows 7, but rather the StartMeStick OS. You’ll still be able to use our Chromium web browser for your web browsing needs, and you can import your Chrome settings through the Google Sync option!

      If you have any further questions, I always suggest reaching out to us at support@fixmestick.com

  66. Kayleigh Montoya -

    I was phoned by Kalsoft about my computer running slow which at the time was. I was completely taken in by them and I paid £160 for 3 years cover which came out of my account by paypal to a company called kalsoft tech with a ref number 35314369001 I looked on the web and to me being a novice thought they were fine. They even gave me a phone number (the same as many have already stated) and a email address that I could conform that all was fine and correct like the phone number no reply when contacted.

    What a fool I was in my defence ill at the time with this dreadful sickness bug and not really paying much attention to what I was doing. Like many others they talked me on how to allow them to get into my computer with a pass key 569527 because my original subscription had run out on the 31/3/2011. After doing what they asked and paying the money they then took over my computer for about 2hrs with them controlling it doing weird and wonderful thing at the end an engineer popped up on the screen saying they had finished and to sign them out because my computer was again safe and secure.

    Please could you advise me how I can tell if they still have control of my computer when it is on and running I have also done so many anti this and anti that checks I also cancelled my Internet Banking detail on th.e account that I used to hand over the money. What as happened to me is weighing heavier on my mind as I can not tell the rest of the family who thank goodness do not use my computer Why do these horrid people do these scams I know there are idiots like me out here.

    Thank you for your help in this matter

    • Jonathan -

      Hi Kayleigh,

      Thank you for reaching out to us!

      I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been running into this issue! In these cases, legitimate companies will never call you out of the blue with the aim of helping you – they are almost always scam calls that want you to pay for illegitimate software that ends up infecting your device.

      If you’ve turned off your computer, it will likely sign them out of the remote connection. However, I’d recommend running a FixMeStick scan to be sure that there a no lingering threats on your computer.

      If you’d like further guidance on what to do in this situation, I suggest emailing us at support@fixmestick.com where can take a closer look into the issue.

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