Can you download MSFS 2024 for free on Windows 10? See legal licence and subscription options, compatibility checks, and unsafe downloads to avoid.
No. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 runs on 64-bit Windows 10, but the full simulator is not a permanent free download. You must buy a licensed edition or use an eligible active subscription that includes it. Free aircraft and scenery are add-ons; they do not include the base simulator.
Is there a free Windows 10 version of MSFS 2024?
No permanent free Windows 10 edition or unrestricted full-game demo exists. An eligible PC Game Pass or Game Pass Ultimate subscription may provide access without a separate purchase, but the subscription itself is paid and access ends if it expires or the title leaves the applicable catalogue.
Occasional promotions may reduce the cost or provide temporary access, but they do not turn MSFS 2024 into freeware. Our explanation of the legitimate ways to access Microsoft Flight Simulator without buying it outright covers that distinction.
Does MSFS 2024 run on Windows 10?
Yes, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 supports 64-bit Windows 10 on compatible PCs. A 32-bit Windows installation is not suitable, and Windows 10 support does not mean every Windows 10 computer has enough processing power, memory, graphics performance or storage.
Check our Windows operating-system compatibility details, then compare the computer against our MSFS 2024 PC hardware guidance. Keep Windows and graphics drivers updated before installing.
How do I install MSFS 2024 legally on Windows 10?
Install it through an authorised PC launcher using an account with a valid purchase or eligible subscription entitlement.
- Choose your access method: buy a PC licence or confirm that your active subscription includes MSFS 2024.
- Use the correct account: sign into the account that holds that purchase or subscription. Using another account is a common reason the launcher displays a purchase button.
- Install it from your library: select the PC edition and allow the launcher to download the required application and initial packages.
- Complete updates before flying: leave enough free storage and maintain a stable internet connection while the simulator installs and verifies its content.
MSFS 2024 streams substantial world and aircraft data. Downloading the initial application therefore does not create a completely self-contained offline copy.
Why does the launcher show Buy instead of Install?
A Buy button normally means the active account has no recognised entitlement. Check that the purchase was made for PC, the subscription remains active, and both the launcher and simulator are using the intended accounts before downloading everything again.
If installation starts but stops repeatedly, check available storage, pending Windows updates and security software that may be blocking the launcher. Do not use an unofficial installer as a workaround.
Can I download free MSFS 2024 aircraft and scenery?
Yes, but free add-ons require an installed and licensed copy of the base simulator. Our freeware aircraft, scenery and utilities library contains add-on files rather than Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 itself.
Check that each package explicitly supports MSFS 2024. An MSFS 2020 add-on is not automatically compatible, and placing files in the Community folder cannot supply or unlock the base game.
Are cracked MSFS 2024 downloads safe?
No. Torrents, cracks, key generators and unofficial full-game installers can contain malware, steal account credentials or alter executable files. MSFS 2024 also relies on account entitlement, updates and streamed services, so an unauthorised copy may fail during sign-in, content loading or updating.