Upgrading your PC to Windows 11 can give you a cleaner interface, newer productivity features, improved security capabilities, and access to the latest Windows experience. If you’re still using Windows 10 on compatible hardware, you may be wondering how to upgrade to Windows 11 without losing your files, applications, or personal settings.

The good news is that upgrading is usually straightforward when your computer meets Microsoft’s requirements. Windows Update is the preferred approach for many users, while Microsoft’s Windows 11 Installation Assistant and installation media provide alternative options when Windows Update doesn’t offer the upgrade.

Microsoft’s current Windows 11 download page identifies Windows 11 2026 Update, version 26H2, as the current release.

This guide walks you through the entire process, from checking compatibility and backing up your files to installing Windows 11 and troubleshooting common upgrade problems.

What Does Upgrading to Windows 11 Mean?

A Windows 11 upgrade moves your existing Windows installation to Windows 11 while, in a standard upgrade, preserving your personal files, applications, and settings.

This is different from a clean installation.

With an in-place upgrade, you normally keep your existing environment. With a clean installation, Windows is installed from scratch and existing applications and files can be removed.

For most people moving from a compatible Windows 10 installation, an in-place upgrade is the simpler option.

Is Windows 11 Free to Upgrade?

Yes. Microsoft states that eligible Windows 10 devices can upgrade to Windows 11 for free, provided they meet the minimum system requirements.

However, the upgrade download can be large, so users on metered or limited internet connections should take their data allowance into consideration.

A free upgrade does not mean that every Windows 10 PC qualifies. Your hardware must meet Microsoft’s Windows 11 requirements.

Windows 11 System Requirements

Before beginning the upgrade, check your PC’s hardware.

Microsoft’s current minimum requirements include:

Requirement	Minimum specification
Processor	1 GHz or faster, 2 or more cores, compatible processor
RAM	4 GB
Storage	64 GB or larger
Firmware	UEFI and Secure Boot capable
TPM	TPM 2.0
Graphics	DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver
Display	Greater than 9 inches, 720p or higher
Internet	Required for certain setup scenarios
Account	Microsoft account required for Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro for personal use during initial setup

These requirements come from Microsoft’s current Windows 11 system requirements documentation.

How to Check if Your PC Can Run Windows 11

One of the easiest ways to determine compatibility is Microsoft’s PC Health Check app.

It checks important hardware requirements and tells you whether the computer is eligible for Windows 11.

You can also check Windows Update because Windows evaluates device compatibility before offering the upgrade through the normal update process.

Check Windows Update

On Windows 10:

1. Open Start.
2. Select Settings.
3. Open Update & Security.
4. Select Windows Update.
5. Select Check for updates.
6. Look for a Windows 11 upgrade notification.

If Windows 11 isn’t offered immediately, don’t assume that your computer is necessarily incompatible. Microsoft may still be validating the upgrade for your particular device.

Check Your Windows Version Before Upgrading

Windows 11 upgrades through Windows Update require Windows 10 version 2004 or later.

To check your version:

1. Press Windows + R.
2. Type winver.
3. Press Enter.
4. Review the Windows version displayed.

If you’re using an older Windows 10 release, install the available Windows updates first.

Back Up Your Files Before Upgrading

Although a standard upgrade is designed to preserve your personal files and applications, you should always back up important data before installing a major operating system upgrade.

Microsoft also recommends backing up your files before installing Windows 11.

Back up important:

• Documents
• Pictures
• Videos
• Desktop files
• Downloads
• School or work projects
• Browser bookmarks
• Important application data

You can use cloud storage, an external drive, or another backup method you trust.

Think of the backup as a safety net. You may never need it, but you’ll be glad you created one if something unexpected happens.

Free Up Storage Space

Windows 11 requires at least 64 GB of storage capacity, but the upgrade process also needs working space for downloading and installing files.

Before upgrading:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select System.
3. Choose Storage.
4. Review the available space.
5. Remove unnecessary temporary files if needed.
6. Empty the Recycle Bin.
7. Uninstall applications you no longer use.

If you’re using Microsoft’s Installation Assistant, Microsoft currently states that the tool requires at least 9 GB of free disk space to download Windows 11.

Having additional free space is still preferable.

Install Pending Windows 10 Updates

Before upgrading, make sure your current Windows installation is fully updated.

Open:

Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

Select:

Check for updates

Install available updates and restart your computer if Windows requests it.

Microsoft notes that Windows 11 may not be offered through Windows Update until available updates for the current Windows version have been installed.

Disconnect Unnecessary Devices

Before starting the upgrade, disconnect devices you don’t need.

For example:

• External storage drives
• Unused USB accessories
• Printers you aren’t using
• Older peripherals
• Other removable devices

Keep essential hardware such as your keyboard, mouse, and display connected.

This isn’t always required, but reducing unnecessary hardware can make troubleshooting easier if the setup program reports a compatibility issue.

How to Upgrade to Windows 11 Through Windows Update

For most compatible Windows 10 PCs, Windows Update is the simplest method.

Step 1: Open Windows Update

Go to:

Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

Select:

Check for updates

Windows checks your system and available updates.

Step 2: Look for the Windows 11 Upgrade

If Windows 11 is available for your computer, you’ll see a notification indicating that Windows 11 is ready.

Microsoft’s upgrade process uses Windows Update to assess whether your particular device is ready for the Windows 11 upgrade.

Step 3: Select Download and Install

If the upgrade is offered, select:

Download and install

Windows begins downloading the required installation files.

The download can take some time depending on your internet connection.

Step 4: Let Windows Prepare the Upgrade

Windows may perform compatibility checks and prepare the installation.

During this stage, you can generally continue using the PC while Windows 11 downloads. Microsoft notes that the installation itself can take longer than an ordinary Windows feature update.

Step 5: Restart Your Computer

When Windows is ready, you’ll be prompted to restart.

Save your work and close your applications.

Then allow Windows to restart and complete the installation.

Your computer may restart several times.

Do not manually shut down the computer while Windows is installing.

Step 6: Sign In to Windows 11

After installation finishes, Windows displays the sign-in screen.

Sign in normally.

Windows should then load your upgraded Windows 11 desktop.

Step 7: Check Your Files and Applications

After signing in, check:

• Documents
• Pictures
• Desktop
• Downloads
• Installed applications
• Browser
• Printers
• Audio
• Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth
• Display settings

Most applications and personal data should remain available after a standard upgrade.

How to Upgrade to Windows 11 Using Installation Assistant

If Windows Update doesn’t offer Windows 11 but your computer is eligible, Microsoft’s Windows 11 Installation Assistant is another option.

Microsoft describes the Installation Assistant as an option for installing Windows 11 on the PC you’re currently using.

Step 1: Download the Installation Assistant

Go to Microsoft’s official Windows 11 download page and download the Installation Assistant.

The current Microsoft page lists the Installation Assistant as an installation option for compatible devices.

Step 2: Run the Tool

Open the downloaded Installation Assistant.

You need administrator privileges to run it.

Step 3: Let It Check Compatibility

The tool checks whether your computer meets the necessary hardware requirements.

If your PC passes the compatibility check, you’ll be given the option to proceed.

Step 4: Accept and Install

Select:

Accept and install

The assistant begins downloading and installing Windows 11.

Step 5: Restart the PC

When prompted, select:

Restart Now

Your PC will restart and continue installing Windows 11.

Microsoft notes that the computer may restart several times during the installation.

Important Installation Assistant Limitation

Microsoft currently states that the Windows 11 Installation Assistant works with x64 processors and does not run on Arm-based PCs.

If you have an Arm-based device, use the installation method appropriate for that hardware instead.

How to Upgrade Using Windows 11 Installation Media

Another option is Windows 11 installation media.

This can be useful when you need more control over the installation process or want to create installation media.

Microsoft states that installation media can also be used to upgrade an existing Windows installation.

Step 1: Create Windows 11 Installation Media

Use Microsoft’s official Windows 11 media creation process to create installation media.

A USB drive is commonly used for this purpose.

Step 2: Connect the Installation Media

Insert the Windows 11 installation USB into the Windows computer.

Step 3: Run Setup From Windows

If you’re upgrading your existing Windows installation, open the USB drive through File Explorer and run:

setup.exe

This starts Windows Setup from within your current Windows installation.

Step 4: Follow Windows Setup

Proceed through the setup screens.

When Windows presents the option for what to keep, carefully review the selection.

For an in-place upgrade, the default option is generally:

Keep personal files and apps

Microsoft also lists options to keep only personal files or keep nothing.

If your goal is to upgrade without deleting your programs and files, make sure you select the appropriate option before continuing.

Upgrade vs. Clean Install: What’s the Difference?

Understanding this difference can prevent accidental data loss.

Installation type	Personal files	Apps	Best for
Windows Update upgrade	Usually kept	Usually kept	Most users
Installation Assistant	Usually kept	Usually kept	Compatible PCs not offered upgrade
Installation media from Windows	Can be kept	Can be kept	Advanced upgrade scenarios
Clean installation	Removed	Removed	Fresh Windows installation

If you want to preserve your current Windows environment, don’t accidentally boot from installation media and choose a fresh installation.

Microsoft warns that booting from installation media to perform a fresh installation can erase the existing installation and files.

What Happens to Your Files After Upgrading?

With a normal in-place upgrade, Windows migrates your existing files and settings to Windows 11.

Microsoft says the default upgrade experience moves files and data to the new Windows installation. It still recommends backing up important files first.

After upgrading, check your usual folders.

You should find your personal data in locations such as:

• Desktop
• Documents
• Pictures
• Videos
• Downloads

You should also verify that important applications open normally.

What Happens to Your Programs?

Most software that worked with Windows 10 is expected to work with Windows 11, although compatibility can vary by application.

Microsoft recommends checking with software publishers when compatibility is important.

Some applications can also be removed during the upgrade if Windows identifies them as incompatible or likely to cause problems.

If Windows removes an application, check the software publisher for a Windows 11-compatible version.

What Happens to Drivers After Upgrading?

Windows 11 installs or updates many drivers automatically, but some hardware may require manufacturer-specific drivers.

After upgrading, check:

• Graphics
• Network adapter
• Audio
• Bluetooth
• Touchpad
• Printer
• Webcam

If something isn’t working correctly, visit the hardware manufacturer’s support resources and look for drivers designed for your Windows 11 version and device.

Update Graphics Drivers

Graphics drivers are particularly important because they affect:

• Screen resolution
• Gaming
• Video playback
• Multiple monitors
• Hardware acceleration

If your display looks unusual after upgrading, check Windows Update and your graphics hardware manufacturer’s driver support.

How Long Does a Windows 11 Upgrade Take?

There isn’t one exact installation time.

The total time depends on:

• Internet speed
• PC performance
• Storage speed
• Available disk space
• Windows version
• Hardware compatibility
• Number of updates required

Microsoft notes that downloading and installing Windows 11 generally takes longer than a typical Windows 10 feature update.

Plan the installation for a period when you don’t need the computer for an important task.

What to Do After Upgrading to Windows 11

Once Windows 11 starts successfully, don’t immediately assume everything is finished.

Spend a few minutes checking the system.

1. Run Windows Update

Open:

Settings > Windows Update

Check for additional updates.

2. Check Activation

Go to:

Settings > System > Activation

Make sure Windows is activated correctly.

3. Check Your Files

Open File Explorer and verify your important folders.

4. Test Your Internet

Make sure Wi-Fi or Ethernet works normally.

5. Test Audio

Play a sound and verify the correct output device is selected.

6. Test Bluetooth

If you use Bluetooth accessories, reconnect them.

7. Open Your Important Applications

Launch the programs you use most often.

This can reveal compatibility issues quickly.

What If Windows 11 Doesn’t Appear in Windows Update?

There are several possible reasons.

Your PC may:

• Not meet Windows 11 requirements
• Need additional Windows updates
• Have a compatibility hold
• Need a restart
• Have insufficient storage
• Be managed by an organization
• Still be undergoing Microsoft’s compatibility validation

Microsoft recommends allowing Windows Update to determine when the upgrade is ready for your particular device.

If the computer is eligible but Windows Update hasn’t offered the upgrade, you can consider the Installation Assistant.

What If Your PC Doesn’t Meet Windows 11 Requirements?

Don’t assume that every Windows 10 PC can officially upgrade to Windows 11.

The most common requirements that prevent an upgrade include:

• Unsupported processor
• Missing TPM 2.0
• Secure Boot requirements
• Insufficient RAM
• Insufficient storage

Microsoft’s supported requirements are designed around security, reliability, and compatibility.

If your PC doesn’t qualify, check whether a hardware upgrade is practical or whether replacing the device is a better long-term solution.

Avoid making unsupported system modifications simply to force an upgrade unless you fully understand the compatibility and security consequences.

Can You Go Back After Upgrading to Windows 11?

Microsoft says that after upgrading from Windows 10, you have 10 days to move back to Windows 10 while keeping the files and data that were migrated during the upgrade. After that period, returning requires a different process involving backups and a clean installation.

Keep this in mind if you’re uncertain about the new operating system.

However, Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, so returning to Windows 10 in 2026 means using an operating system that no longer receives Microsoft’s normal free security updates and support.

Common Windows 11 Upgrade Problems

Error: This PC Can’t Run Windows 11

This usually means that one or more requirements aren’t satisfied.

Use PC Health Check to identify the compatibility issue.

Upgrade Gets Stuck

If installation appears frozen for an unusually long time, don’t immediately force the computer to shut down.

Give the installation sufficient time, especially on slower hardware.

If the installation genuinely fails, restart only when Windows provides a safe recovery path and review the error message.

Not Enough Storage

Free up space before trying again.

Remove unnecessary temporary files, unused applications, and large files you no longer need.

Application Compatibility Problems

Update the affected application.

If no compatible version exists, check with the software publisher for Windows 11 support.

Hardware Stops Working

Run Windows Update first.

Then check the device manufacturer’s Windows 11 driver support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10?

Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, select Check for updates, and look for the Windows 11 upgrade. If your compatible PC is offered Windows 11, select Download and install and follow the prompts.

Is upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 free?

Yes. Microsoft provides the Windows 10-to-Windows 11 upgrade free for eligible devices that meet the minimum system requirements.

Will I lose my files when upgrading to Windows 11?

A standard in-place upgrade is designed to keep your personal files and applications. Nevertheless, Microsoft recommends backing up important files before starting the upgrade.

How do I know whether my PC supports Windows 11?

Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check app or Windows Update to assess compatibility. Important requirements include a supported processor, 4 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, UEFI/Secure Boot capability, and TPM 2.0.

Can I upgrade to Windows 11 without Windows Update?

Yes. Microsoft provides other installation options, including the Windows 11 Installation Assistant and installation media.

How long does upgrading to Windows 11 take?

The time varies according to your internet connection, computer hardware, available storage, and installation conditions. Microsoft notes that the Windows 11 installation generally takes longer than a typical Windows 10 feature update.

What should I do before upgrading to Windows 11?

Back up important files, check compatibility, install pending Windows updates, make sure enough storage is available, and ensure that important applications and hardware are compatible with Windows 11.

Can I upgrade an unsupported PC to Windows 11?

Microsoft’s supported upgrade path requires the computer to meet the Windows 11 minimum requirements. If a device doesn’t meet them, forcing an unsupported installation can leave the PC in an unsupported configuration and may create compatibility or security concerns.

Conclusion

Knowing how to upgrade to Windows 11 makes the transition from Windows 10 much easier. For a compatible PC, the simplest approach is usually Windows Update: check for updates, download Windows 11 when Microsoft offers it, and let Windows complete the installation.

If Windows 11 isn’t appearing in Windows Update but your computer is eligible, Microsoft’s Installation Assistant provides another option. Installation media is also available for users who need an alternative installation method.

Before starting, back up your important files, verify your hardware, free up sufficient storage, and update your current Windows installation. After the upgrade, check Windows Update, activation, drivers, applications, and your personal files.

The most important rule is not to rush the process. A few minutes spent preparing your PC can prevent hours of troubleshooting later.

Key Takeaways

• Windows 11 upgrades are free for eligible Windows 10 PCs.
• Check your hardware before beginning.
• Windows 11 requires compatible hardware, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot capability.
• Back up important files before upgrading.
• Windows Update is the simplest upgrade method for many users.
• Microsoft’s Installation Assistant is another option for compatible PCs.
• Installation media can also perform an in-place upgrade.
• Choose Keep personal files and apps when you want to preserve your existing Windows environment.
• A clean installation is different from an in-place upgrade and can erase existing data.
• Check drivers, applications, activation, and Windows Update after installation.
• Microsoft currently lists Windows 11 version 26H2 as the current release.