Should I Upgrade to Windows 11? Here's The Answer!

Should I Upgrade To Windows 11?

Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. After that, there will be no more security updates, bug fixes, or technical support.

Your computer will still work, but using Windows 10 beyond that date could become risky, as it won’t receive new security protections and vulnerabilities will increase.

Also, while Microsoft hasn’t given a specific end date for the free Windows 11 upgrade, the offer could end at any time without notice. When it does, users may need to buy a Windows 11 license or a new device that comes with it pre-installed.

Requirements for Updating to Windows 11

Before deciding whether I should upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10, you need to ensure that your device has the minimum system requirements of Microsoft. These requirements help in making sure that Windows 11 is running efficiently, safely, and providing the performance gain that it promises.

Computer Requirements

The table below outlines the key hardware components your system must have to support the upgrade.

Check Your PC’s Compatibility with Windows 11

To determine should I switch to Windows 11, the initial step is to check if your PC meets the system requirements.

Microsoft takes care of that with the PC Health Check App, which is a free download that takes minutes to scan your device and determine whether it can be upgraded. All you have to do is download the app from the official Microsoft site, scan it, and check the compatibility results.

Preparation for Switching to Windows 11

After making sure that your computer meets the minimum requirements to run Windows 11, you will need to do adequate preparation to ensure an easy and successful upgrade.

1. Enable TPM and Secure Boot

Windows 11 includes security features that are required, such as TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0 and Secure Boot. These features are often included in many modern computers but are disabled by default in either the BIOS/UEFI settings.

Steps to enable TPM and Secure Boot:

• Restart and enter “BIOS/UEFI” (press F2, F10, F12, Delete, or Esc during startup).

• Locate “TPM” settings (Security/Advanced/Trusted Computing menu).

• Enable “TPM” to find “Secure Boot” settings.

• Set boot mode to “UEFI”.

• Enable “Secure Boot”, then save and exit.

2. Back Up Your Data

The most important preparation activity is the creation of a thorough backup. Although Windows 11 updates are usually secure, some unforeseen problems may arise and a backup will help you not to lose valuable documents, photos, and files.

Steps to back up your data:

• Select storage (cloud storage or external drive)

• Use windows backup: “Settings - Update and Security - File backup”.

• Choose to back up files to cloud drive or using “File History”.

3. Ensure a Stable Internet Connection

Windows 11 also needs an active internet connection when being installed, especially to download updates and drivers. A stable connection eliminates interruption, which may lead to the failure of installation.

4. Free Up Space for Windows 11

Windows 11 needs a minimum storage capacity of 64GB, yet you will need much more to operate comfortably and to update in the future. By clearing space before upgrading, a space crunch does not occur since there is inadequate storage space to install.

Steps to free up space for Windows 11 installation:

• Open “Settings → System → Storage”.

• Click to see every category and uninstall unnecessary programs or files.

• Also, you can clear temp files by pressing “Windows + R - %temp%”.

• Empty Recycle Bin is needed as well.

5. Uninstall Your Security Software

Go to “Settings → Apps → Uninstall third-party antivirus”, then restart. Windows Defender will protect you during and after the upgrade.

6. Allow Ample Time for the Upgrade

Schedule 2-3 hours when you won't need your computer. Keep laptops plugged in and don't interrupt the multiple automatic restarts.

How to Upgrade to Windows 11 Safely?

Your system is ready, and you are now prepared to make the actual upgrade to Windows 11. There are two primary upgrade methods in Microsoft. Both methods are safe and approved, and you can select the method that suits your case best.

1. Upgrade Your Computer to Windows 11 via Windows Update

If your PC meets the system requirements, the easiest way to move to update your computer to Windows 11 is through Windows Update. This method lets you upgrade directly from your current Windows 10 system without losing your files or apps.

Here's how to upgrade your computer to Windows 11:

• Press “Windows + I → Update & Security → Windows Update”.

• Click "Check for updates".

• Click "Download and install" to accept license terms.

• Wait for installation and there will be multiple restarts during the process.

• Complete setup with privacy settings and a Microsoft account.

Note:

Your files, applications, and settings will be preserved. Windows keeps a copy of Windows 10 for 10 days for rollback if needed.

2. Install Windows 11 with Windows Update Assistant

If Windows Update doesn’t show the upgrade option, you can still install Windows 11 using the Windows Update Assistant. This tool helps you manually start the upgrade process while keeping your files and settings intact.

Here's how to install Windows 11:

• Visit the Windows 11 Installation Assistant website to download it.

• Run the installer and click "Yes" for permissions

• Review compatibility check results

• Accept the license terms and click "Accept and install."

• Wait for download.

• Click "Restart now" or schedule a restart.

• Complete installation then configure initial setup preferences.

• Verify installation and check for updates.

How to Recover Lost Data After Windows 11 Update?

If you notice missing files after upgrading to Windows 11, you’re not alone. data loss can occasionally occur during system updates due to installation errors, interrupted processes, or compatibility issues. Fortunately, tools like Tenorshare 4DDiG can help you get those files back easily.

With 4DDiG, you can recover lost or deleted documents, photos, videos, and other files from your computer’s internal drive or even external devices. It scans deeply to locate recoverable data affected by the upgrade process and lets you preview files before restoring them. Let’s see how to use it to recover lost files after Windows 11 update.

• Launch 4DDiG Windows Data Recovery software after downloading and installing it on your computer. Now, click "Hard Drive" from the left panel and select the local drive where you want to perform data recovery (You can recover 500MB of data for free, and if you share this software on social media, you get extra 1.5GB).

  

• 4DDiG scans the drive automatically and allows you to preview your results based on different file path and file type filters. Click the "Recover" button in the bottom right corner.

  

• Finally, save the file on your desired storage by choosing it and clicking “Save Now”.

  

FAQs About Windows 11 Upgrade

Final Say

The question “Should I upgrade to Windows 11” ultimately depends on your situation. However, upgrading sooner is often the more intelligent choice since the transition will be necessary eventually. With stronger security, improved performance, and a modern design, moving to Windows 11 is well worth it.

It is also essential to note that if there is any data loss after the Windows 11 update, you can always rely on 4DDiG Data Recovery to retrieve all the lost files.