How to Upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 Without Data Loss
With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, now is the ideal time to upgrade. This guide shows you how to do it safely, keeping all your files and applications.
Summary: Upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11
- The upgrade is FREE for Windows 10 users with a genuine license
- Your files, apps, and settings are preserved (except clean install)
- Key requirements: TPM 2.0, compatible CPU (8th gen Intel/Ryzen 2000+), 4GB RAM
- Estimated time: 30 min - 2 hours depending on your PC
Table of Contents
Windows 11 System Requirements
Windows 11 has stricter requirements than Windows 10. Here are Microsoft's official minimum requirements:
Processor
64-bit, 1 GHz or faster, 2+ cores. Intel 8th gen+ or AMD Ryzen 2000+
RAM
4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)
Storage
64 GB minimum
TPM
TPM version 2.0 (critical requirement)
Firmware
UEFI with Secure Boot enabled
Display
HD (720p), 9 inches or larger, 8 bits per color channel
You can check the complete list of compatible processors on the official Microsoft documentation.
How to Check Your PC Compatibility
Microsoft offers a free tool to check if your PC meets Windows 11 requirements:
Using PC Health Check (Recommended)
- 1
Download PC Health Check
Download it from aka.ms/GetPCHealthCheckApp
- 2
Install and run the app
Follow the installer instructions.
- 3
Click 'Check now'
The app will analyze your PC and display the results.
- 4
Review the results
You'll see which requirements you meet and which you don't.
Common Compatibility Issues
- TPM 2.0: Many PCs have it disabled. You can enable it in BIOS/UEFI.
- Secure Boot: Must be enabled in UEFI settings.
- CPU: CPUs older than 8th gen Intel/Ryzen 2000 are not officially supported.
What to Do Before Upgrading
Before starting the upgrade, follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:
1. Create a backup
Back up your important files to an external drive or cloud. Although the upgrade preserves your data, it's always better to be safe.
View backup guide2. Update Windows 10
Install all pending Windows 10 updates before upgrading to Windows 11.
3. Check disk space
You need at least 64 GB of free space. We recommend having at least 20 GB extra for installation.
4. Note your product key (optional)
Your license will transfer automatically, but it's good to have the key handy just in case.
5. Plug in your PC
If using a laptop, keep it plugged in throughout the entire upgrade process.
Method 1: Upgrade via Windows Update (Recommended)
This is the safest and simplest method. Windows Update handles everything automatically.
- 1
Open Windows Settings
Press Windows + I or search for 'Settings' in the Start menu.
- 2
Go to Update & Security
Click on 'Update & Security'.
- 3
Look for Windows 11 update
If your PC is compatible, you'll see a message to upgrade to Windows 11.
- 4
Click 'Download and install'
The download will begin. You can continue using your PC while it downloads.
- 5
Restart when prompted
Your PC will restart several times during installation. Don't turn it off.
Advantage: This method preserves all your files, applications, and settings. It's the safest option.
Method 2: Windows 11 Installation Assistant
If the upgrade doesn't appear in Windows Update, you can use Microsoft's Installation Assistant:
- 1
Download the Installation Assistant
- 2
Click 'Download Now' under Installation Assistant
A small executable file will download.
- 3
Run the assistant as administrator
Right-click and select 'Run as administrator'.
- 4
Accept terms and follow instructions
The assistant will verify compatibility and start the download.
- 5
Wait for installation and restart
The process can take from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Method 3: Clean Install with ISO
WARNING: Clean install ERASES all data from your PC. Only use this if you want to start fresh or if other methods fail.
For advanced users who want a completely fresh installation:
- 1
Download the Media Creation Tool
- 2
Create a bootable USB or download the ISO
You need a USB drive of at least 8 GB.
- 3
Boot from USB
Restart and press F12, F2, or Del (depending on your PC) to access the boot menu.
- 4
Follow the installation wizard
Select 'Custom installation' for a clean install.
After clean install, you'll need to activate Windows 11. If you don't have a license, visit our Windows 11 activation guide.
Common Issues and Solutions
Update doesn't appear in Windows Update
Microsoft rolls out the update gradually. If it doesn't appear, use the Installation Assistant (Method 2).
Error 'This PC doesn't meet requirements'
Verify that TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are enabled in BIOS/UEFI. Check your motherboard manual for specific instructions.
Installation stuck at a percentage
Wait at least 2-3 hours before assuming there's a problem. If it persists, restart and try again.
Black screen after upgrading
Wait 15-20 minutes as Windows may be configuring things in the background. If it persists, force restart (hold power button for 10 seconds).
For more solutions, check our activation troubleshooting guide.
What If Your PC Isn't Compatible?
If your PC doesn't meet Windows 11 requirements, you have several options:
Option 1: Stay with Windows 10 + ESU
You can continue using Windows 10 and purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU) for $30/year after October 2025.
More about ESUOption 2: Enable TPM/Secure Boot
Many PCs have TPM 2.0 disabled by default. Access BIOS/UEFI and look for options like 'TPM', 'PTT' (Intel), or 'fTPM' (AMD).
Option 3: Consider a new PC
If your PC is more than 6-7 years old, it may be time to consider a new computer that comes with Windows 11 preinstalled.
Note: There are methods to install Windows 11 on unsupported PCs (TPM bypass), but Microsoft warns that these systems may not receive security updates and could experience compatibility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my files when upgrading to Windows 11?
No, if you upgrade via Windows Update or Installation Assistant, all your files, apps, and settings are preserved. Only clean install erases everything.
Is upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 free?
Yes, the upgrade is completely free for Windows 10 users with a genuine license. Your Windows 10 license automatically transfers to Windows 11.
Can I go back to Windows 10 after upgrading?
Yes, you have 10 days after upgrading to roll back to Windows 10. Go to Settings > System > Recovery and select 'Go back'. After 10 days, you'll need to reinstall Windows 10 manually.
How long does the Windows 11 upgrade take?
The upgrade typically takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on your internet speed, PC performance, and amount of data you have.
Will my programs work on Windows 11?
Most programs compatible with Windows 10 work on Windows 11. However, some very old software or specialized drivers may need updates. Check with the manufacturer if you have concerns.
Related Windows 10 Guides
Ready to Upgrade?
If your PC is compatible, upgrading to Windows 11 is free and preserves all your data. If you need a Windows 11 license, we offer genuine keys at affordable prices.