Upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11 via Windows Update

Upgrading an eligible Windows 10 computer to Windows 11 is a free and seamless process through Microsoft’s built-in Windows Update service. This guide covers the essential preparation steps and provides a straightforward walkthrough to help you check your system eligibility, download the operating system, and successfully install Windows 11 without losing your personal files and applications.

1. Check System Compatibility

Before attempting the upgrade, ensure your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11, including a compatible 64-bit processor, at least 4 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, TPM 2.0, and UEFI Secure Boot capability.

You can verify compatibility by running the official PC Health Check app on your Windows 10 machine.

2. Back Up Your Data

Although Windows Update preserves your files, settings, and apps during the upgrade, it is strongly recommended to back up important documents, photos, and files to an external drive or cloud storage before proceeding.

3. Open Windows Update

  1. Click the Start menu on your taskbar.
  2. Select Settings (the gear icon).
  3. Click on Update & Security.
  4. Select Windows Update from the left-hand menu.

4. Check for the Upgrade

  1. Click the Check for updates button.
  2. If your PC is eligible and the update is ready for your hardware, a banner will appear stating: “Upgrade to Windows 11 is ready—and it’s free!”

5. Download and Install

  1. Click the Download and install button located within the Windows 11 upgrade banner.
  2. Read and accept the Microsoft Software License Terms by clicking Accept and install.
  3. Windows Update will download the necessary files in the background. You can continue using your PC during this phase.

6. Restart to Complete Installation

  1. Once the download and initial preparation are complete, you will be prompted to restart your computer.
  2. Click Restart now, or schedule the restart for a convenient time.
  3. Your computer will restart several times while applying the update. Ensure your device remains plugged into a power source throughout the entire installation.

Once the process finishes, you will be greeted by the Windows 11 lock screen with all your existing files, apps, and accounts intact.