Upgrade From Windows 10 to Windows 11 on Any PC

How to Upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11

Introduction to the Upgrade Process

• The video provides a comprehensive guide on upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11, applicable for any PC, regardless of compatibility.

• It highlights the end-of-life date for Windows 10 as October 14th, 2025, with an option for a one-year extension.

Preparing Your Current System

• Users must ensure their Windows 10 is fully updated, specifically to version 22H2, before attempting the upgrade.

• Upgrading is free for eligible PCs; however, users can still upgrade non-compatible systems at their own risk regarding security updates.

Checking Compatibility and Requirements

• Users can check hardware compatibility through the Windows Update area or by using Microsoft's tools available online.

• To extend support for Windows 10 by one year, users need an activated version of Windows and a Microsoft account.

Data Backup and ISO Download

• Emphasizes the importance of backing up all data before proceeding with the upgrade process to prevent potential data loss.

• Users are instructed to download an ISO file from Microsoft's website as part of the installation process.

Installation Considerations

• When downloading the ISO file, it’s crucial that users select a region that matches their PC settings to retain applications during installation.

How to Upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11

Preparing for the Upgrade

• Ensure regional settings match when upgrading to Windows 11; select "English International" for the UK to avoid issues with saving applications.

• Download the correct ISO file after confirming regional settings, and locate it in your downloads folder.

Mounting the ISO File

• Right-click on the downloaded ISO file and select "Mount" to access its contents.

• Create a shortcut of the setup.exe file on your desktop for easy access during installation.

Modifying Setup Properties

• Change properties of the shortcut by adding inverted commas around the target path and appending /productserver at the end.

• This method allows installation without needing to open a command prompt, streamlining the upgrade process.

Installation Process

• After double-clicking on setup.exe, confirm User Account Control prompts to initiate installation.

• Opt not to download updates during installation for a quicker setup; updates can be handled post-installation.

Finalizing Installation

• Ensure sufficient disk space (25–40 GB recommended); insufficient space will halt the upgrade process.

• Confirm that files, settings, and apps will be retained during upgrade; Windows 11 will activate automatically if upgrading from Windows 10.

Post-upgrade Considerations

• The installation may display as "Windows Server," but it is actually installing Windows 11 based on existing OS version.

• Expect multiple reboots during installation until reaching the desktop interface of Windows 11.

Cleanup and Updates

• After successful upgrade, delete any shortcuts created and unmount or delete the ISO file used for installation.

• Perform all necessary updates once upgraded; consider debloating options available through additional resources.

Rollback Options

• Users have a default rollback period of 10 days if they wish to revert back to Windows 10; this can be extended up to 60 days via command prompt.

Windows 10 Rollback Options Explained

Understanding the Rollback to Windows 10

• Users can roll back to Windows 10 within 60 days by executing a specific command with administrator privileges, allowing ample time to evaluate Windows 11.

• The rollback option is available indefinitely; there is no strict deadline for users to revert. However, the one-year extension on Windows 10 starts from its end-of-life date, not from enrollment.

• Microsoft has indicated that only one year of extended support will be provided for Windows 10 after its end-of-life date, which may limit future options for users.

Compatibility Considerations

• Not all computers are compatible with Windows 11 due to hardware requirements set by Microsoft; older systems may not support the new OS at all.

• Users whose devices cannot run Windows 11 have alternatives: they can either purchase a new computer or continue using Windows 10 for an additional year before exploring other operating systems like Linux or Zero Patch.

Additional Resources and Community Engagement

• The speaker encourages viewers to check out their YouTube channel for more information on topics related to extending Windows 10 and its end-of-life status, highlighting numerous videos available on these subjects.

• Acknowledgment of community support through YouTube memberships and an invitation for further discussion on platforms like Discord are mentioned as ways to engage with the content creator.