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Milliken's avatar
Milliken
Iron Contributor
Jun 30, 2025

Can I still upgrade my Windows 10 to 11 for free 2025?

I want to upgrade my Windows 10 computer to Windows 11 but not sure how to do this as my computer is not official supported by Windows 11. The computer specs are pretty good:

  • Processor: Intel i7 265K
  • RAM: 32GB DDR5
  • Hard drive: 2TB of SSD space
  • Graphics: AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT

My question is: Can I still upgrade my Windows 10 to 11 for free in 2025 for un unsupported PC?

Thanks

5 Replies

  • Anlinbru's avatar
    Anlinbru
    Iron Contributor

    Upgrading to Windows 10 to 11 for free can provide a more modern, efficient, and secure computing experience. If your device is compatible, it's worthwhile to upgrade when the opportunity arises!

  • Brendaster's avatar
    Brendaster
    Iron Contributor

    Yes, if your device meets the hardware requirements, you should be able to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for free in 2025. Microsoft has maintained the free upgrade offer for eligible devices, and as of now, there is no official indication that this will change anytime soon.

    Steps to ensure a free upgrade in 2025:
    * Check Compatibility:
    Use the PC Health Check tool from Microsoft to verify if your device meets the Windows 11 requirements.

    * Keep Windows 10 Updated:
    Make sure your Windows 10 system is fully updated. Sometimes, the upgrade option becomes available after certain updates.

    * Wait for the Upgrade Notification:
    When Windows 11 is ready for your device, you'll see a notification or can check manually via Windows Update settings.

    * Upgrade When Available:
    Follow the prompts to upgrade directly through Windows Update, which will be free for eligible devices.

    Note:  
    If your device isn’t compatible, you might not receive the upgrade option officially.
    While some unofficial methods exist to bypass requirements, they are not recommended due to potential security and stability issues.

    As long as your device is compatible, you should be able to upgrade to Windows 11 for free in 2025. Keep your system updated and check for the upgrade periodically. If you'd like, I can guide you through checking your device's compatibility or preparing for the upgrade!

  • Wrentdr's avatar
    Wrentdr
    Iron Contributor

    To upgrade your Windows 10 to Windows 11 for free in 2025, follow these steps:

    1. Check Compatibility
    * Ensure your PC meets the Windows 11 hardware requirements:
    * Compatible 64-bit processor (dual-core or more)
    * 4 GB RAM or more
    * 64 GB storage or more
    * UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability
    * TPM 2.0 chip
    * Graphics compatible with DirectX 12 or later

    2. Backup Your Data
    * Always back up your important files before upgrading.

    3. Keep Windows 10 Updated
    * Ensure your Windows 10 system is fully updated:
    * Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
    * Click Check for updates and install any available updates

    4. Wait for the Upgrade Notification
    * When your device is eligible, Windows will notify you when the upgrade to Windows 11 is available via Windows Update.

    5. Manually Check for the Upgrade
    * Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
    * Click Check for updates
    * If Windows 11 is available, you'll see an option to download and install

    6. Upgrade Windows 10 to 11 for free
    * Click Download and install when prompted
    * Follow on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade

    The above is the answer to the question "Can I still upgrade my Windows 10 to 11 for free". Hope it can help you.

     

  • AtticusPayne's avatar
    AtticusPayne
    Iron Contributor

    "Can I still upgrade my Windows 10 to 11 for free " - From my experience and what I’ve read, doing a thorough clean-up of your drivers and troubleshooting before upgrading Windows 10 to 11 for free is actually a smart move—especially if you’re dealing with BSODs and driver conflicts. It’s like giving your system a good reset so everything’s fresh and less likely to cause issues during or after the upgrade.

    Is it dangerous? Not really, as long as you’re careful. Just make sure you:

    • Backup your important data (which you’re already planning to do).
    • Use trusted tools like DDU to clean out drivers—no worries there, it’s pretty safe if you follow instructions.
    • Download drivers directly from NVIDIA’s website, avoiding sketchy sources.
    • Create a system restore point before making big changes, so if something weird happens, you can roll back.

     

    In my own experience, I’ve done similar cleanups before big OS upgrades, and it’s saved me from headaches down the line. Plus, it helps avoid weird driver conflicts that can cause crashes post-upgrade.

    Since you’re planning to upgradeWindows 10 to 11 for free in 2025 (assuming Microsoft’s free upgrade window stays open or you’re eligible), doing all this prep now is actually a good idea—you want your system as clean and stable as possible when you hit that upgrade button.

  • Zachariahh's avatar
    Zachariahh
    Iron Contributor

    As of October 2023, Microsoft officially allows users to upgrade to Windows 10 to 11 for free if their devices meet certain hardware requirements. However, if your PC is not officially supported—meaning it doesn't meet the minimum hardware specifications set by Microsoft—you may face challenges during the upgrade process.

    Your hardware specs are quite strong, especially with a high-end CPU, ample RAM, and a powerful GPU. The main concern is whether your processor (Intel i7 265K) and other components meet Windows 11's minimum requirements. Microsoft officially states that supported CPUs include certain 8th generation Intel processors and newer, which means the i7 265K (which is an older CPU from the 2nd or 3rd generation) might not be officially supported.

    Can you still upgrade Windows 10 to 11 for free?  

    Yes, technically you can attempt to upgrade. Many users have successfully installed Windows 11 on unsupported hardware using workarounds, such as modifying the registry or bypassing hardware checks. However, this comes with risks: Stability issues, lack of official support and updates and potential security concerns.

    Before you upgrading  Windows 10 to 11 for free. Please use tools like the "PC Health Check" app or "WhyNotWin11" to verify your system's compatibility. If you decide to proceed, follow trusted guides from reputable sources to bypass the hardware check carefully. Keep in mind that in 2025, support policies or upgrade options could change.

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