How to Upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11: 4 Proven Methods

With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, many users are looking to upgrade to Windows 11. However, the strict system requirements can make this challenging for some PCs. This guide covers four reliable methods to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, whether your computer meets the official requirements or not.

Method 1: Upgrade via Windows Update (For Supported PCs)

The simplest way to upgrade a compatible Windows 10 PC is through Windows Update:

Step 1: Press Windows + I to open Settings, then navigate to “Update & Security”.

Step 2: Click “Check for updates”. If your PC is eligible, you’ll see a message saying “Upgrade to Windows 11 is ready”.

Step 3: Click “Download and install” to begin the upgrade process.

Step 4: Follow the on-screen prompts. Your PC will restart several times during installation.

This method preserves all your files and installed programs. However, it’s always wise to back up important data before any major OS upgrade.


Method 2: Use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant

If Windows Update isn’t offering the upgrade, try Microsoft’s Windows 11 Installation Assistant:

Step 1: Visit the official Microsoft Windows 11 download page.

Step 2: Download and run the Windows 11 Installation Assistant.

Step 3: Click “Accept and install” when prompted.

Step 4: The tool will download Windows 11 and guide you through the installation.

This method also keeps your files and apps intact. It’s a good alternative if Windows Update isn’t working for some reason.


Method 3: Upgrade Unsupported PCs with Rufus

For PCs that don’t meet all the Windows 11 requirements, the Rufus tool can help bypass these checks:

Step 1: Download the official Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s website.

Step 2: Download and install Rufus from the official website.

Step 3: Launch Rufus and select your Windows 11 ISO.

Step 4: Choose a USB drive (at least 8GB) to create the installation media.

Step 5: In Rufus settings, enable “Remove requirement for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot and TPM 2.0”.

Step 6: Create the bootable USB drive.

Step 7: Once complete, run setup.exe from the USB drive on your Windows 10 PC.

Step 8: Follow the on-screen instructions to perform an in-place upgrade.

This method allows you to upgrade while keeping your files and programs. However, be aware that Microsoft doesn’t officially support this approach.


Method 4: Clean Install on Unsupported PCs

For a fresh start on an unsupported PC, you can perform a clean installation:

Step 1: Follow steps 1-6 from Method 3 to create a bootable USB with modified Windows 11.

Step 2: Backup all important data from your PC.

Step 3: Restart your PC and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F12, or Del during startup).

Step 4: Change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive.

Step 5: Save changes and exit. Your PC should boot from the USB drive.

Step 6: Follow the Windows 11 installation wizard, choosing “Custom: Install Windows only” when prompted.

Step 7: Select the drive where you want to install Windows 11 and proceed with installation.

This method gives you a clean Windows 11 installation but erases all data on the selected drive. Make sure you have backups of all important files before proceeding.


While these methods can help you upgrade to Windows 11, remember that using workarounds on unsupported hardware may lead to stability issues or missed security updates in the future. Always weigh the benefits against potential risks when deciding to upgrade an unsupported system.