An OEM can also preload files onto the hard drive of a computer running Windows Vista or Windows 7.

The Windows DVD media (Windows Vista only) can be used so long as it's marked with the label 'Includes Windows Anytime Upgrade'. Users are required to complete the upgrade by installing the proper files associated with the edition unlocked with their downloaded license package using one of several methods. One can then complete the process by downloading the license software that is required for the process. The license download can be achieved direct by either going directly to the website address or by using the Windows Anytime Upgrade feature included in the Control Panel. For online purchases, there is no key to input, as the upgrade process is automatic and takes around 10 minutes. Upgrading to another version of Windows 7 currently requires the purchase of a license online, or by manual application of a license key which can be purchased at retail. The benefit of WAU is that if one decides that one wants Windows Media Center, Aero, or Windows Fax and Scan out of a computer that currently runs the Home Basic edition, one could complete the upgrade without needing to acquire a different installation disk and without requiring a reinstall of Windows. In practical terms, this means that the license purchased online effectively determines which version of the operating system customers can upgrade from and to. This is what is also used in differentiating between Windows XP Home and Windows XP Professional.

Microsoft's current marketing material states that all installation media will contain all the functionality of the highest SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) and that higher level functions will be disabled through winlogon.exe and pidgen.dll. Windows 7 Anytime Upgrade does not require physical media and installs the extra components of the Windows 7 edition from the Component-based servicing (CBS) store located on the system. Windows Vista Anytime Upgrade was a full in-place Windows reinstall that usually took considerable time and required the original Windows Vista DVD with the same service pack level as that of the installed edition. Windows Anytime Upgrade DVDs were only used for Windows Vista. The Windows 7 version of Windows Anytime Upgrade introduced many improvements, notably the upgrade time has been reduced to around 10 minutes, and upgrade license keys can be purchased at retail. X86 and 圆4 Windows Anytime Upgrade (WAU) is an upgrade method offered by Microsoft and selected licensed resellers for users who wish to upgrade any non-Ultimate edition of Windows Vista or Windows 7.

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