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QuentinNash's avatar
QuentinNash
Iron Contributor
May 23, 2025

How can I upgrade Dell laptop to Windows 11?

I am seeking assistance with upgrading my Dell laptop to Windows 11 and would like to understand the proper process to ensure a smooth transition. I am unsure about the specific requirements my devic...
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Barbarank's avatar
Barbarank
Iron Contributor
May 23, 2025

If you're unable to upgrade Dell laptop to Windows 11, the most common reason is that your PC doesn't meet Microsoft’s strict hardware requirements. Windows 11 mandates ​​TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, UEFI mode, and a compatible 64-bit processor. Hence, many older Dell laptops and desktops (pre-2018) lack these features. Even if your Dell laptop runs Windows 10 smoothly, it might not support TPM 2.0 or have an incompatible CPU (e.g., Intel 7th Gen or older). Run ​​PC Health Check​​​​ to confirm.

Another possible issue is ​​outdated firmware or drivers​​. Dell laptops often need a ​​BIOS update​​ to enable TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot. If these settings are disabled in BIOS, Windows Update won't offer the upgrade. Additionally, if your system has ​​pending Windows 10 updates​​, the Windows 11 option may not appear. Ensure your OS is fully updated (​​Settings > Windows Update​​) and that your BIOS is configured correctly.

If your hardware is compatible but the upgrade on Dell laptop from Windows 10 to Windows 11 still fails, ​​corrupted system files or registry issues​​ might be blocking it. Run ​​DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth​​ and ​​sfc /scannow​​ in Command Prompt (Admin) to fix errors. Alternatively, bypass Windows Update by using the ​​Windows 11 Installation Assistant​​ or performing a ​​clean install via USB​​. However, if your PC is unsupported, upgrading isn’t recommended due to potential security and stability risks.

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