Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. While that date might seem pretty far off, now is the perfect time to start preparing for the transition. Whether you’re a personal user or managing a fleet of business devices, moving to Windows 11 ensures you stay secure and up to date.
Why Upgrade to Windows 11?
Besides getting ongoing security and feature updates, Windows 11 gives you:
- A modern user interface
- Enhanced security features such as hardware-based isolation, TPM 2.0, and Secure Boot
- Optimization for newer hardware and better battery performance for laptops
Step 1: Check Compatibility
Before upgrading to Windows 11, you’ll need to make sure your device meets the Windows 11 minimum requirements:
- A compatible 64-bit processor that’s at least 1 GHz with 2 cores
- 4 GB RAM
- 64GB storage (does not have to be free storage)
- TPM version 2.0
- UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability
- DirectX 12-compatible graphics with a WDDM 2.0 driver
If your device meets or exceeds these requirements, you’re all set to upgrade to Windows 11. The easiest way to check if your device is Windows 11 compatible is by using Microsoft’s PC Health Check Tool to automatically assess your system.
Step 2: Back Up Files
Before any major OS update, it’s best practice to back up your files to an external drive or cloud service (OneDrive or Google Drive). While there shouldn’t be any data issues during an upgrade, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Step 3: Update to Windows 11
Once you’ve followed the steps listed above, you’re all set to update to Windows 11!
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
- If you’re device is eligible, you’ll see an option to Upgrade to Windows 11
- Click Download and Install
- Follow the on-screen prompts and keep in mind that your device will restart multiple times
This process can take between 30 minutes to a couple hours depending on your internet connection and hardware. If your device is closer to the age threshold, you might see the message below instead of the option to upgrade to Windows 11. If that’s the case, you’ll just need to use the Windows 11 Update Assistant to upgrade your device.
Step 4: More Updates
After upgrading, check if your computer requires any driver updates. This can be done by following these steps:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced Options > Optional Updates
- Select the driver updates you want to install, and click Download & Install
After installing any remaining driver updates, make sure that all your software was successfully carried over to Windows 11. Most software should carry over, but in a few cases you might need to install a new version.
What if My Device Isn’t Compatible?
If your device fails to meet Windows 11 minimum requirements, you have a few options before the end of support date:
- Purchase a new device with Windows 11 preloaded
- Upgrade your hardware to meets the requirements
- Enabling TPM in the BIOS settings
- Upgrading your CPU
- Upgrading your RAM