Step 1 – Check if your PC supports Windows 11
Before upgrading, confirm your computer meets Windows 11 requirements (including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot on most systems). The easiest way is to use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool, which will tell you if your device is eligible.
Step 2 – Back up important files (recommended)
Upgrades usually keep your personal files, but it’s still best to back up anything important in case something unexpected happens. Save key documents and folders to cloud storage or an external drive.
Step 3 – Install all Windows 10 updates first
Having the latest updates installed reduces the chance of errors during the upgrade.
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
Click Check for updates
Install everything available
Restart if prompted
Step 4 – Make sure you have enough free storage
Windows 11 installation needs free space to download and apply files. If your drive is nearly full, delete temporary files, uninstall unused apps, or move large files to another drive.
Step 5 – Start the upgrade (recommended method: Windows Update)
If your PC is eligible, Windows 11 may appear in Windows Update.
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
Look for the Windows 11 upgrade option
Click Download and install
Follow the on-screen prompts
Your PC may restart multiple times during the process.
Step 6 – Alternative method (if Windows Update doesn’t show it yet)
If Windows Update doesn’t offer the upgrade but your device is compatible, you can use Microsoft’s Windows 11 Installation Assistant or an official installation tool to start the upgrade manually. Follow the tool instructions to upgrade while keeping your files.
Step 7 – Confirm the upgrade completed
After the final restart:
Go to Settings > System > About
Check that the version shows Windows 11
Step 8 – Install updates after upgrading
Once you’re on Windows 11, install the latest updates to improve stability and security.
Go to Settings > Windows Update
Install available updates
Restart if required