How to upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10

How to upgrade to Windows xi from Windows 10

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Windows 11 launched on October 5 every bit a free update for anyone with Windows 7 and above. So long as your PC meets Microsoft'due south minimum Windows xi installation requirements, you lot can endeavour out the new operating system. Though Windows eleven has a new interface and features, it'southward less a revolution and more than of a refinement.

Even if Windows 11 isn't entirely necessary at the moment, it is worth trying out for those who are curious. It's a solid operating system that's sure to go better over time.

Microsoft currently has 3 options for installing Windows 11. We'll detail the Installation Banana option in this commodity, since information technology's the easiest way to update to Windows 11 and the one we recommend for almost users. Just follow the steps below and yous'll soon see what Windows 11 is all about.

Once you've upgraded, take a expect at our guide on how to speed up Windows 11.

Windows eleven review
The 7 all-time new Windows xi features
Plus: Windows eleven: What it means for gamers

How to download and install Windows 11: Brand sure your PC tin run Windows xi

ane. Download and run Microsoft's PC Health Bank check app to ensure your PC meets Microsoft'southward basic requirements.

Some users may non be able to install Windows 11 because their PC doesn't have a TPM ( Trusted Program Module ) ii.0 on their motherboard. This was the reason I couldn't run Windows 11 on my previous PC. Even if your PC does have TPM 2.0, it may not be enabled. Read our how-to guide to larn how to enable TPM on your PC.

It's besides a good idea to back up your system to an external storage bulldoze or a deject server. I used Microsoft'due south OneDrive but you're complimentary to use whatsoever other online cloud backup service.

(Whatever you do, don't become your Windows 11 installation file from third parties. Some artificial Windows 11 installers are really malware.)

2. Download the Windows 11 installation assistant from Microsoft. Equally stated above, Microsoft offers multiple ways of installing Windows xi, and using the assistant is the simplest selection. So head over to Microsoft's Download Windows eleven page and select Windows eleven Installation Assistant.

three. Open the .exe file and follow the on-screen instructions. After that, accept the EULA (End User Licensing Agreement) to brainstorm the installation process.

4. Wait for Windows xi to install. This may take up to a few hours. Feel complimentary to grab upward on Squid Game or continue playing Metroid Dread while you wait for the installation to finish.

5. Follow the subsequent prompts and kickoff enjoying Windows 11.

Once the installation is complete, yous should find all of your files and applications in the aforementioned place yous left them before the update. Some may sport a new await (those rounded edges on apps and folders look squeamish, don't they?) only everything should function as you remember. You may need to fight against your own muscle memory when using Windows xi (it's hard not dragging your mouse to the left to select the Start card) but it won't be long earlier you're blazing through the new operating system like a pro.

More: The best Windows 11-ready laptops so far

Tony is a computing author at Tom's Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on Twitter. His non-nerdy pursuits involve attending Difficult Rock/Heavy Metal concerts and going to NYC bars with friends and colleagues. His work has appeared in publications such every bit Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.