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GarrettSlate
Iron Contributor
Jul 15, 2025

Re: In-Place upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10 If PC not compatible

If your PC meets the Windows 11 system requirements, upgrading from Windows 10 is straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to upgrade Windows 11 from Windows 10 for free.

Step 1: Use File History or an external drive to back up critical files (just in case).

Step 2:Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install all pending updates.

Step 3:Go to Settings > Windows Update.

Step 4 :If eligible, you'sll see: "Upgrade to Windows 11 is ready" β†’ Click Download and install.

Step 5: Accept terms, wait for download (~3.5GB), and let the PC restart (~20-40 mins).

Post-Upgrade Checklist
βœ” Update Drivers (NVIDIA/AMD, chipset, etc.).
βœ” Re-enable Secure Boot & TPM in BIOS (if disabled earlier).
βœ” Check App Compatibility (some old software may need reinstall).

Troubleshooting Tips
πŸ”Ή "This PC can’t run Windows 11" β†’ Ensure TPM 2.0 & Secure Boot are enabled in BIOS.
πŸ”Ή Stuck at download? β†’ Use the Media Creation Tool instead.
πŸ”Ή Activation Issues? β†’ Windows 11 uses the same license as Win 10 (should auto-activate).

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