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Sephie's avatar
Sephie
Iron Contributor
Jun 27, 2025

Why keep personal files and apps option greyed out during windows 11 upgrade?

I heard it is totally possible keep all files and apps when upgrading to Windows 11 from Windows 10. However, when I tried to do this, the option keeps and apps greyed out and I can't choose it all. ...
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RitheswarReddy's avatar
RitheswarReddy
Iron Contributor
Jun 27, 2025

To upgrade to Windows 11 and keep your files and apps, you should perform an in-place upgrade using the official Windows 11 Installation Assistant or a mounted ISO file.

If the keep personal files and apps is greyed out, here is how to fix this:

1. Make sure your PC meets the Windows 11 system requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, supported CPU). You can use the PC Health Check tool from Microsoft.

2. Go to the official Microsoft website and download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant.

3. Launch the Installation Assistant and follow the on-screen instructions. It will:

  • Download Windows 11
  • Verify compatibility
  • Start the upgrade process


3. When prompted, choose to keep personal files and apps. The upgrade will proceed without erasing your data.

4. Restart and finish upgrade

5. Your PC will restart several times. Once completed, your desktop, programs, and settings will remain intact.

This will solve 'keep personal files and apps' option greyed out issue when upgrading Windows 10 to Windows 11.

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