Ready to bite the bullet with a Windows 11 upgrade? About time. Microsoft’s latest operating system has been out since 2021 and has a ton of tangible benefits over its predecessor. Plus, you’ve got nothing to lose because upgrading from Windows 10 is free.
This post will teach you how to prepare for a Windows 11 upgrade, including backups, compatibility, step-by-step instructions, and Windows 11 system requirements.
Why Upgrade to Windows 11?
As the latest iteration of Microsoft’s world-famous operating system, Windows 11 is better than Windows 10 in many ways.
The newer OS gets widespread acclaim for its clean, modern interface featuring rounded corners and vibrant, eye-pleasing icons. People also praise its performance, as Windows 11 is more resource-efficient and has a knack for prioritising foreground apps. That means it runs better on older, less powerful machines.
Unlike controversial OS upgrades of old (a la Vista and Windows 8), Microsoft hasn’t tried to reinvent the wheel. Users still get a familiar, intuitive interface with a taskbar and start button. The learning curve is about as flat as the Australian outback.
Users get productivity-boosting snap layouts that optimise screen space by resizing and repositioning windows. Tech-savvy types appreciate improved virtual desktop functionality, while remote workers rave about Microsoft Teams integration.
But the most compelling reason to upgrade? Security. On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop providing updates and security fixes for Windows 10. That leaves the outdated OS vulnerable to a myriad of hacks, malware, and cyberattacks. While your Windows 10 PC will still run post-October 14, we strongly recommend updating to the latest OS before then.
How to Check Your PC’s Compatibility for Windows 11
Microsoft allows any PC running Windows 10, version 2004 (or later) to upgrade to Windows 11 for free, provided it meets minimum hardware requirements.
The easiest way to evaluate compatibility is to download and install the PC Health Check app. Although the app had issues (and was temporarily withdrawn) when Windows 11 first came out, it’s now reliable and easy to use.
- Open the PC Health Check app and click Check now.
- The app will tell you whether your PC meets the minimum Windows 11 requirements.
- If it doesn’t, click See all results for more information.
Although less user-friendly, the open-source WhyNotWin11 app offers more detailed information on compatibility issues.
Should your PC require more RAM, consider upgrading. Geeks2U can help. Alternatively, purchase a new PC. You don’t want to rely on a computer without OS support.
Windows 11 System Requirements
Given it’s so lean, you don’t need a top-of-the-line machine. Here are the minimum system requirements for Windows 11.
| Minimum Requirement | |
| Processor | 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a 64-bit processor or SoC |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB or more |
| Firmware | UEFI, Secure Boot capable |
| TPM | Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 |
| Graphics Card | DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x driver |
| Display | HD (720p), greater than 9 diagonal inches and 8 bits per colour channel |
| Secure boot | Required |
| Microsoft account | Required |
| Internet Connection | Required for updates and some features |
Although sneaky ways to bypass these requirements exist, we don’t recommend them. You’re bound to encounter sluggish performance, security vulnerabilities, and system crashes. Upgrade or replace your outdated PC instead.
Doing A Backup Before A Windows 11 Upgrade
It’s super important to back up your data when upgrading an operating system. Should something go wrong and files become corrupted, you won’t lose your precious data.
Try one of the following data backup methods. Our Geeks will readily show you the ropes should you need assistance.
Cloud Storage Backups
If you have a speedy internet connection and a small amount of data to back up, a cloud storage service (OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc) offers a hassle-free solution. Simply upload the files you want to keep to the cloud.
The downside? The free versions of all these services have small data limits, so you may have to pay for a premium subscription.
External Storage Drive Backups
If you have a sufficiently large external storage drive lying around the house, this fast, user-friendly option is a no-brainer. Simply plug the device into an available USB slot and copy across the files you want to backup. The average external drive can store about 1TB of data, plenty for most people. Larger options up to 10GB are available.
The problem is that external storage drives are expensive if you don’t already own one, especially for a one-time use scenario. Maybe you can borrow one from your cousin?
Third-Party Data Backup Tools
Third-party data backup tools automatically copy specific files, safely stowing them in an encrypted cloud storage service, an external on-site drive, or both. Top options include Acronis True Image, ShadowProtect SPX Desktop, and IDrive, though there are many more.
While great for businesses, these premium platforms are overkill for most home users.
Steps to Upgrade to Windows 11
You don’t need to be a tech guru to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown.
- Ensure your PC is compatible with the minimum system requirements using the PC Health Check app.
- Backup your data.
- Click the Start menu.
- Click Settings, Update & Security, Windows Update, then Check for updates.
- If Windows 11 is available, click Install and follow the on-screen instructions.
- If you can’t see a Windows 11 update option, download and install the Windows 11 Upgrade Assistant and follow the on-screen instructions.
The upgrade process can take several hours, and your PC will self-restart multiple times. Do not manually restart or turn off the PC, even if it appears to have frozen. If you’re on a laptop, plug it into the mains.
Troubleshooting Windows 11 Installation Issues
If your Windows 11 installation fails, these troubleshooting solutions may help.
- Double-check your system hardware against the requirements and ensure you have enough available storage space (about 32 GB).
- Try using the Windows 11 Upgrade Assistant (if you haven’t already).
- Check Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 are enabled (this requires accessing the BIOS/UEFI settings).
- Navigate to Settings, Update & Security, and Windows Update and run the Windows Update Troubleshooter.
- Run the System File Checker to repair any potentially corrupted system files; a Deployment Imaging Service and Management (DISM) tool can help.
- Update your BIOS and drivers.
Of course, some of these solutions exceed the capabilities of the everyday computer user, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance.
Need Help? Geeks2U Is Here for Your Windows 11 Upgrade
Whether you need a hand upgrading your PC to meet minimum requirements, backing up your data, or troubleshooting installation issues, help is only a phone call away.
Contact us today, and we’ll send a Geek to you for a smooth Windows 11 upgrade experience. We also offer comprehensive computer setup services to get your freshly updated PC operating at its peak.
FAQs
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1. What are the Windows 11 system requirements?
Windows 11 requires a 1GHz CPU with 2 cores, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, UEFI firmware, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0.
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2. How can I check if my PC is compatible with Windows 11?
The Microsoft PC Health Check app is the most reliable way to determine whether your PC is compatible with Windows 11.
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3. What steps should I follow to upgrade to Windows 11?
Do a Windows 11 compatibility check, backup your data, and select Windows Update in the Settings menu.
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4. Why is it important to back up before a Windows 11 upgrade?
If the Windows 11 upgrade fails, you could experience corrupted system files and suffer from data loss.
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5. How do I fix Windows 11 installation issues?
Try running the update through the Windows Upgrade Assistant instead of the Settings menu.
