Upgrading Windows 10 to Windows 11 is kinda straightforward, but it’s not always perfect. Sometimes, the upgrade goes smoothly — check compatibility, hit update, and you’re all set — but other times, weird compatibility issues pop up or the upgrade just won’t show in Windows Update. If your PC isn’t meeting the hardware requirements or if certain drivers aren’t ready, the process can be stuck or cause some hiccups. This guide should give a few solid ways to troubleshoot those problems so you’re not left scratching your head. Plus, a couple of tips to make sure things go as smoothly as possible and you don’t lose your files in the process. Expect some steps to go more smoothly than others—Windows has a way of making things a little complicated, especially if you aren’t paying close attention.
How to upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11
Method 1: Using the official Windows Update tool
If Windows 11 isn’t showing up automatically in your updates, first check what’s going on — for some reason, sometimes it just doesn’t pop up immediately, even if your device is compatible. The first thing to do is go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Then, click Check for updates. If Windows 11 is available, it should show up here with an option to download and install. Just click that, and let it do its thing. On one setup, it downloaded and installed pretty smoothly — on another, it stalled because of driver issues or some compatibility flag that flagged the system as incompatible. Usually, it’s just a matter of waiting, or sometimes a reboot helps clear things up.
Why this helps
This method relies on the built-in update system, which is designed to detect potential issues and manage the install. It’s the simplest way if you’re just waiting for Windows to roll out the upgrade to your device. Expect a seamless process most of the time—that’s the goal, anyway. On some setups, it’s like Windows just refuses to show the upgrade at first, even if all signs point to compatibility. Might be worth running the Windows Update Troubleshooter if nothing shows up after a few days (Microsoft support site)).
Method 2: Using the PC Health Check tool for compatibility
Sometimes, you think your PC is ready, but Windows disagrees. Kind of weird, but running the official PC Health Check app can help clarify what’s wrong. This tool scans your system and tells you exactly which hardware or software component is holding things back. If it says you’re incompatible because of TPM or Secure Boot issues, fixing those might get you in the upgrade queue.
Why this helps
Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary, and not everyone is aware of TPM, Secure Boot, or virtualization requirements. Running this tool helps cut through the confusion. When the check shows what’s wrong, you can often fix specific issues — like enabling TPM in BIOS or turning on Secure Boot. Expect this to be a good step if your upgrade option suddenly disappeared or you’re getting weird compatibility flags.
Method 3: Creating a bootable USB with the Windows 11 installer
If all else fails or Windows Update refuses to play nice, a clean install might be the way. You can download the Windows 11 ISO from the official Microsoft Windows 11 download page and use either Rufus or the Windows Media Creation Tool to make a bootable USB stick. Plug it into your PC, reboot, and boot from the USB drive — usually by pressing F12, F2, or Del during startup, depending on the manufacturer. From there, you can wipe the drive and do a fresh install, which often sidesteps upgrade issues caused by driver conflicts or corrupted system files.
Why this helps
Because sometimes, Windows just doesn’t want to upgrade in-place, especially if the system’s been around since Windows 10’s initial release or has a lot of custom stuff. A clean install can fix underlying issues and give you a fresh start. Expect a little more time investment upfront, but it can be worth it if upgrades keep failing or your system is buggy.
Extra tips to keep everything smooth
- Double-check your disk space — at least 64GB free for a smooth install.
- Disable or uninstall non-essential apps or security software temporarily; some can block or delay the install.
- Update your drivers manually, especially graphics, chipset, and network drivers, before starting.
- Keep your PC plugged in — interruptions during install can cause issues.
- If possible, disconnect extraneous peripherals—printers, external drives—sometimes they interfere too.
Summary
- Check your device’s hardware specs and run the PC Health Check.
- Backup your files — because better safe than sorry.
- Try the Windows Update method first — patience is key.
- If that doesn’t work, create a bootable USB and do a clean install.
- Fix driver and BIOS issues beforehand if needed.
Wrap-up
Upgrading isn’t always a smooth ride, and sometimes Windows throws weird roadblocks. But knowing a few tricks helps get around the most common ones. That PC Health Check is useful if you’re unsure, and a clean install via bootable USB can fix stubborn issues. Just remember to back everything up first, and don’t rush the process. Hopefully, these tips save some time and frustration — works better than stumbling in the dark!