How to Upgrade to Windows 11
Note: Microsoft ended all support, including critical security updates, for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Upgrading is now essential for a secure and supported computing environment.
This guide provides a comprehensive path for moving from Windows 10 to Windows 11. It’s designed to help you understand whether your computer can make the transition, choose the right installation method, and resolve common issues. Windows 11 offers a refreshed interface centered on productivity, with enhanced security features like mandatory TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, and improved performance for modern hardware.
You will learn how to perform essential pre-upgrade checks, select the best installation method for your needs, and take the right steps after the upgrade is complete to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Preparing for the Upgrade: Prerequisites and Compatibility
Before you learn how to upgrade to Windows 11, the most critical step is to confirm your PC meets the system requirements. Upgrading an incompatible PC can lead to an unsupported state or installation failure.
Core System Requirements Checklist
The table below summarizes the mandatory hardware requirements your PC must meet.
Using the PC Health Check App
The simplest way to verify compatibility is with Microsoft’s official PC Health Check app. Download and run the tool from Microsoft’s website. It will provide a clear “This PC meets Windows 11 requirements” message or detail which components are blocking the upgrade.
Enabling Key Security Features: TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot
Many compatible PCs have these features disabled by default. Here is how to check and enable them:
- TPM 2.0: Press the Windows key + R, type
tpm.msc, and press Enter. If you see a “Compatible TPM cannot be found” message, it needs to be enabled in your UEFI/BIOS settings. Access these settings via Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now > UEFI Firmware Settings. Look for options labeled “Security Device,” “TPM State,” “Intel PTT,” or “AMD fTPM”. - Secure Boot: This requires your PC to be in UEFI mode, not Legacy/CSM. Follow the same steps above to enter UEFI/BIOS settings. Navigate to the Boot or Security section to find and enable “Secure Boot.”
If you are unsure, consult your PC manufacturer’s support website for model-specific instructions.
The Essential First Step: Backing Up Your Data
Always back up your personal files before a major system upgrade. A full system image backup is ideal, but at a minimum, ensure your documents, photos, and other irreplaceable files are safe.
Microsoft provides a built-in tool called Windows Backup. You can access it via Start > Settings > Accounts > Windows Backup. It allows you to sync key folders (Desktop, Documents, Pictures, etc.) to OneDrive and save many system settings with your Microsoft account.
Related: How to Format Windows 11
Choosing Your Path: Three Methods to Upgrade
Once your PC is ready, you can choose your method for how to upgrade to Windows 11. The primary difference is the level of manual control versus automation.
Method 1: Upgrade via Windows Update (Recommended)
This is the simplest, official method. Microsoft will automatically offer the upgrade to compatible devices that are fully updated.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates.
- If your PC is eligible and the upgrade is ready, you will see an option to Download and install Windows 11.
- Accept the license terms. The download and installation will proceed, requiring several restarts.
Note: If you don’t see the offer, ensure all pending Windows 10 updates are installed and restart your PC. The upgrade may also be temporarily withheld due to a known compatibility issue with your specific hardware or software.
Method 2: Use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant
If your PC is eligible but Windows Update hasn’t offered the upgrade, you can use the Installation Assistant tool.
- Download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft’s official download page.
- Run the downloaded file. (If you encounter issues, try right-clicking it and selecting “Run as administrator”).
- The tool will check your compatibility. If your PC passes, click Accept and install.
- Follow the prompts. The assistant will handle the download and installation process.
Troubleshooting the Assistant: If it gets stuck or fails, try temporarily disabling third-party antivirus software. You can also run the System File Checker by opening Command Prompt as Administrator and typing sfc /scannow.
Method 3: Perform a Clean Install with Installation Media
This method is for advanced users who want a fresh start or need to install Windows 11 on multiple PCs.
- Use the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft to create a Windows 11 installation USB drive.
- With Windows 10 still running, insert the USB drive. An autoplay prompt should appear; select “Run setup.exe”.
- In the setup wizard, you can choose “Keep personal files and apps” to perform an upgrade, or select “Nothing” for a clean install (which deletes everything).
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Warning: If you boot directly from the USB drive to install, it will perform a clean install only, erasing your drive. Only use this option if you have a full backup and want to start fresh.
The following table compares the three methods to help you choose:
| Method | Best For | Complexity | Data Retention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows Update | Most users. Let Microsoft manage the rollout. | Very Easy | Keeps everything. |
| Installation Assistant | Users whose eligible PCs haven’t been offered the update yet. | Easy | Keeps everything. |
| Installation Media (Upgrade) | Advanced users, or when other methods fail. | Moderate | Can keep files & apps or files only. |
| Installation Media (Clean Install) | Users wanting a fresh start or maximum performance. | Advanced | Erases everything. Requires backup. |
Post-Upgrade Checklist
After successfully learning how to upgrade to Windows 11 and completing the installation, follow these steps:
- Run Windows Update Immediately: Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates. This will fetch the latest drivers and security patches specific to Windows 11.
- Check for Driver Issues: Open Device Manager (search in the Start menu). Look for any devices marked with a yellow exclamation point, which indicates a missing or problematic driver. Visit your PC or hardware manufacturer’s website for Windows 11-compatible drivers.
- Re-enable Security Software: If you disabled third-party antivirus software during the upgrade, re-enable it or confirm Windows Security is active.
- Explore New Features: Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the new centered Start menu, Snap Layouts for window management, and Widgets. You can find tips within Windows by going to Start > Tips.
Also read, How to Take a Screenshot on Windows 11
Troubleshooting Common Upgrade Issues
For detailed steps on resolving specific error codes, consult Microsoft’s official troubleshooting guide.
What If My PC Isn’t Compatible?
If your PC does not meet the Windows 11 system requirements, you have options:
- Continue with Windows 10: Be aware that it no longer receives security updates as of October 14, 2025, making it increasingly vulnerable.
- Consider New Hardware: For the best and most secure experience, upgrading to a new PC designed for Windows 11 is the recommended path.
- Not Recommended: Installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware is possible but strongly discouraged by Microsoft, as it may lead to a lack of updates, stability issues, and no technical support.
I hope this guide helps you move smoothly to Windows 11. If your PC isn’t eligible and you’re considering new hardware, what are your primary uses for the computer (e.g., gaming, business, or general home use)? This could help in deciding the specifications you might need.