Ready to move from Windows 10 to Windows 11? For many PCs the upgrade is free, and your files and apps come with you. If you need a license, a genuine Windows 11 key is inexpensive and activates instantly. Here’s how to do it, step by step.
Step 1: Check If Your PC Is Eligible
Windows 11 requires a compatible 64-bit CPU, 4 GB+ RAM, 64 GB+ storage, and TPM 2.0 with Secure Boot. The easiest way to check is Microsoft’s free PC Health Check app, or look in Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update for an upgrade offer.
Step 2: Back Up Your Files (Just in Case)
An in-place upgrade keeps your files, but it’s always smart to back up important data first — to an external drive or cloud storage like OneDrive.
Method 1: Free Upgrade via Windows Update
- Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
- If your PC is eligible, you’ll see “Upgrade to Windows 11 is ready” — click Download and install.
- Follow the prompts and let your PC restart to complete the upgrade.
This keeps your existing activation if your Windows 10 was already activated.
Method 2: Windows 11 Installation Assistant
If you don’t see the upgrade offer yet, download Microsoft’s Windows 11 Installation Assistant from the official Windows 11 download page and run it to upgrade manually.
Do You Need a License?
If your Windows 10 wasn’t activated — or you’re doing a clean install of Windows 11 — you’ll need a genuine product key to activate. A Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro key from our store is inexpensive, genuine and delivered instantly. Not sure which edition? See Windows 11 Home vs Pro.
What If My PC Isn’t Compatible?
Often the upgrade is blocked simply because TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot is turned off in your BIOS/UEFI — enabling them can make your PC eligible. If your hardware genuinely doesn’t meet the requirements, you can stay on Windows 10 with Extended Security Updates as a short bridge, or move to a newer PC. See our guide on what to do now that Windows 10 support has ended.
After Upgrading: Activate Windows 11
Once you’re on Windows 11, follow our activation guide to enter your key and confirm activation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the upgrade really free?
For eligible Windows 10 PCs that are already activated, yes. If you need a license, a genuine Windows 11 key is inexpensive.
Will I lose my files and apps?
No — an in-place upgrade keeps everything. (Back up anyway, to be safe.)
How long does it take?
Usually 30–90 minutes, depending on your PC and internet speed.
Can I go back to Windows 10?
Yes — within 10 days of upgrading you can roll back from Settings → System → Recovery.