Forum Discussion
Will upgrading from Windows 10 to 11 delete my files and apps?
Will upgrading from Windows 10 to 11 delete files? No !!! I understand your concern about upgrading your Windows 10 laptop to Windows 11, especially since you have important data and applications on your device.
Generally, upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is designed to be an in-place upgrade, which means:
Your personal files, such as documents, photos, videos, and other data, should remain intact.
Installed applications and programs are usually preserved and should continue working after the upgrade.
However, there are some important points to keep in mind:
- Ensure your device meets Windows 11 hardware requirements. If your PC isn’t compatible, the upgrade might not proceed, or you might encounter problems.
- Sometimes, certain applications or drivers may not work correctly after the upgrade, but this usually doesn’t lead to data loss. Still, backing up helps avoid any worries.
- Clean Install vs. In-Place Upgrade:
The standard upgrade process from Windows 10 to 11 is designed to keep your files and apps.
A clean installation (which erases everything) is usually done if you choose to reinstall Windows manually, not the typical upgrade.
To upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 won't delete file, the best way is via the official update process should not delete your files or installed apps. Still, back up your data beforehand to be safe.