Time’s running out—Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, meaning no more security updates, bug fixes, or feature enhancements. Without updates, your PC is vulnerable to viruses and hackers. If you’re still using Windows 10, now is the perfect time to plan your upgrade to Windows 11. It ensures your PC stays secure and up to date, adds slick features like Copilot for work or gaming, and is compatible with the latest apps and technologies. This article explores everything you need to know to upgrade to Windows 11 smoothly — from checking system requirements to installing the upgrade using Microsoft’s recommended tools.
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Why You Need to Upgrade Your Windows 10 PC
The “end of support” for Windows 10 means that Microsoft will no longer provide free security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance for the operating system. Continuing to use it beyond that point can expose you to security risks and software limitations.
Upgrading from Windows 10 to a newer version, like Windows 11, ensures continued security and access to the latest features. Upgrading also offers benefits like faster performance, improved interface, and better hardware support.
- 🛡️ Ongoing security updates from Microsoft
- ⚙️ Compatibility with newer hardware and software
- 🚀 Better performance and productivity features
- 🎨 A modern design and enhanced user experience
Check PC Compatibility for Windows 11
Windows 11 needs specific hardware like TPM 2.0 and a recent CPU, or it won’t install. Run the official “PC Health Check” to ensure your device meets Microsoft’s minimum hardware requirements:
- At least 4GB of system memory (RAM).
- At least 64GB of available storage.
- One of Windows 11’s officially approved processors (CPUs), with at least two cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or SoC, Currently, we found three lists for AMD models, Intel models, and Qualcomm models.
- A graphics processor that is compatible with DirectX 12 and Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) 2.0 or greater.
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) support,
- The PC should be Secure Boot capable. (UEFI firmware with Secure Boot)
If you don’t know what device configuration you have, you can take the help of the Windows 11 PC Health Check app.
Back Up Your Important Files
Windows 11 upgrade is easy, but before you begin any upgrade, create a backup to avoid losing files in case something goes wrong.
- Windows Backup: Use built-in backup in Settings > Accounts > Windows Backup
- OneDrive: Sync important folders (Desktop, Documents, Pictures) to the cloud
- External Drive: Use File History or copy files manually to an external USB or HDD
💡 Tip: You can also create a System Image or Restore Point for extra safety.
In addition, make sure your PC has enough storage space (at least 20–30 GB free) and is running the latest Windows 10 version. Use Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense to remove temporary files and free up space.
Disconnect external devices that include the printer, scanner, USB flash drive or external HDD and more. Temporarily disable or uninstall third-party antivirus applications from your PC.
Download Windows 11
Downloading Windows 11 from Microsoft’s official site ensures a clean, safe upgrade, avoiding dodgy sources. It’s free for Windows 10 users, works with decent Wi-Fi, but needs ~10GB free space. Clear temporary files if your drive’s full.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
- Look for “Upgrade to Windows 11 is ready.”
- If free upgrade is available for your device, Click Download and install
- Accept the license terms to start downloading Windows 11 update files from the Microsoft server.
- The download and installation may take some time, depending on your Internet connection speed and system configuration.
- Once the process completes, restart your computer. Wait a few moments, and the brand new Windows 11 will present with new and exciting features and improvements.
For Windows 11 devices:
If you are an existing Windows 11 user, you can download and install Windows 11 24H2 by heading to Settings > Windows Update, turning on Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available, and clicking Check for updates.
Use Installation Assistant
Microsoft’s Installation Assistant guides you through upgrading to Windows 11 if Windows Update fails; it’s perfect for older PCs. It’s straightforward and official but needs a stable internet connection.
- Open the Download Windows 11 page and click the Download Now button under the Windows 11 Installation Assistant section.
- Locate the Windows11InstallationAssistant.exe, right-click on it select run as administrator,
- Click yes if UAC prompts for permission, and wait for the Assistant to check your system for Windows 11 compatibility.
- The license screen prompts, and you must click on Accept and Install to proceed.
- Next, it will start downloading update files from the Microsoft server and then verify the update files downloaded completely.
- Finally, it will start installing, and once done, it will prompt to restart the device.
🔐 This is ideal if Windows Update doesn’t show the upgrade prompt.
How to Set Up Windows 11
Setting up Windows 11 after upgrading personalizes your PC, from logins to apps, for a smooth start. It’s quick and lets you tweak settings, but it needs your Microsoft account. Skip bloatware during setup to keep it clean.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account after upgrading.
- Choose Express settings or customize privacy options.
- Pin apps like Edge or Notepad to the taskbar.
- Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any additional updates
- Install your favorite apps from the Microsoft Store.
- Reinstall or update drivers if anything isn’t working correctly
- Re-enable antivirus or third-party tools if they were disabled
Important Note:
- Not all Windows 10 PCs are compatible with Windows 11 — if yours isn’t, consider replacing it before October 2025.
- Microsoft may continue offering Windows 11 as a free upgrade for a limited time, so don’t wait too long.
- If you’re using unsupported hardware, you can still install Windows 11 with the following workarounds, but you may not receive updates or support.
