How to Upgrade to Windows 11 for Free – Step Guide

Introduction

Windows 11 is Microsoft's new and modern operating system that offers a new user interface, better security, gaming features, and productivity tools. If you're currently using Windows 10 or earlier, you can upgrade for free—as long as your PC meets Microsoft's hardware requirements.

 

1. Compatibility Check (System Requirements)

 

Before upgrading, it is important that your PC meets the minimum specs of Windows 11:

Processor: 1GHz or above, with 2 or more cores (64-bit)

RAM: At least 4GB (8GB is better)

Storage: 64GB free drive space (SSD recommended)

TPM 2.0, UEFI, Secure Boot: These security modules are a must

Graphics: DirectX 12 support with WDDM2.0 driver and 9‑inch 720p display

 PC Health Check tool

You can scan for compatibility by installing Microsoft's PC Health Check tool; If it passes then upgrade is possible

 

2. Install from Windows Update

If you are using Windows 10 then this is the easiest method:

Navigate to Settings, then Update & Security, then finally Windows Update.

Click "Check for updates." If the device is compatible, the upgrade option "Download and install" will show.

If the update is not showing:

First, apply any current Windows 10 updates and reboot your computer.

Then check Windows Update again.

Click on Download and install. The operating system will begin to download and install the necessary files.

When the installation finishes, restart the computer to finish the upgrade.

Windows will reboot multiple times. Lastly, you will see the Windows 11 lock screen—just sign in, and the upgrade is complete.

 

3. Windows 11 Installation Assistant

If the upgrade is not available through Windows Update (the rollout is phased), use Microsoft's Installation Assistant:

Get the new Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft's official website.

Run the tool; it also checks PC health for compatibility.

If the PC is compatible, click Accept and install.

The download and install process will begin. When complete, Restart now.

Windows 11 will start after the PC automatically reboots.

 

4. Clean Install or USB Media method

If you want a fresh installation or want to install on multiple PCs:

Microsoft's Media Creation Tool is able to used for creating a bootable USB drive of 8GB or greater.

Launch the Media Creation Tool, choose a USB flash drive, and then click Next.

Once USB is ready, insert it in your PC, select Boot menu, and run setup.exe to clean install or in-place upgrade.

There is also an option to download ISO file: download ISO from Microsoft site and burn USB/DVD with Rufus or built-in burner.

 

5. Unsupported Hardware Options

If your PC does not meet official requirements (such as TPM 2.0 is missing), manual bypass is also possible—but this comes with security risks, so it is not recommended.

Bypass can be done by doing Registry tweak or using Rufus tool, but avoid it if you are inexperienced.

 

6. Backup and Post‑Upgrade Tips

Backup: Make sure to backup your important data (Documents, Photos) before the upgrade (external drive/OneDrive).

Windows10 Roll‑back: If you face any problem after the upgrade, you can go back to Windows 10 by going to Settings → System → Recovery → Go Back for 10 days.

Storage Cleanup: After the upgrade, the "Windows. Old" folder is created. It is cleaned up within 10 days, otherwise delete it by disk cleaning.

7. Features and Benefits

UI: Centered Start Menu, translucent windows, widgets.

Security: TPM 2.0, Secure Boot strengthens protection.

Performance: Better memory management, Direct Storage, gaming features like Auto HDR.

Multitasking: Snap layouts, virtual desktops for efficient productivity.

Android Apps support (via Amazon Appstore).

 

8. Free Upgrade Deadline

Microsoft has not set a strict deadline for free upgrade to Windows 11; still, Windows 10 support is ending after October 14, 2025, so it is timely to upgrade now

You can view more useful content by visiting the home page of our website.

FAQs - How to Upgrade to Windows 11 for Free

Q1: Is upgrading to Windows 11 free?

Yes — if your device has a valid Windows 10 license and meets the hardware requirements, the upgrade is free through Windows Update or Microsoft’s tools.

Q2: How do I know if my PC is eligible?

Use the PC Health Check app from Microsoft. It scans for key hardware requirements: TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, CPU, RAM (≥4 GB), storage (≥64 GB), and graphics compatibility.

Q3: What happens to my files and apps?

Files and apps are preserved during the upgrade. Still, it’s strongly recommended to back up important data using tools like OneDrive. Some apps may be removed if they're incompatible—reinstall them post-upgrade.

Q4: How long will I be able to rollback?

You can revert to Windows 10 within 10 days after upgrade, preserving your files. After that, you'd need to manually back up data and perform a clean install.

Q5: Is there a deadline for the free upgrade?

There's no fixed deadline, but Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025. Following that, it will no more get security upgrades. Microsoft still reserves the right to modify its offer later.

Q6: What if my PC doesn’t meet the requirements?

It won't be offered officially via Windows Update. You may still install via media methods or bypass registry/TPM checks—but this is unsupported and may result in no future updates or compatibility issues.

Q7: What if I don’t like Windows 11?

Use the built-in rollback option within 10 days. After that window, returning requires a clean install and backup. Many people prefer to wait and test the waters before making a final decision.

Q8: Do I need a new computer?

No. Most Windows 10 PCs built in the last 5 years meet requirements. If not, check for software/firmware upgrades or consider purchasing new, though it's usually unnecessary.