Windows 11 Frequently asked questions
Windows 11 has all the power and security of Windows 10 with a redesigned and refreshed look. It also comes with new tools, sounds, and apps. Every detail has been considered. All of it comes together to bring you a refreshing experience on your PC. Some Windows 10 features are not available in Windows 11, see Windows 11 Specifications.
If your accessories worked with Windows 10 and meet the Windows 11 requirements, they should work with Windows 11. If you want to be sure, please check with your accessory manufacturer.
Windows Update will provide an indication if PC is eligible or not. Check by going to Settings > Windows Update.
Yes! Windows 10 continues to be a great version of Windows. We have committed to supporting Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.
Windows Update will provide an indication if and when your PC is eligible, or you can check by going to Settings/Windows Update.
It’s free. But only Windows 10 PCs that are running the most current version of Windows 10 and meet the minimum hardware specifications will be able to upgrade. You can check to see if you have the latest updates for Windows 10 in Settings/Windows Update. Note that in areas where the internet is metered, ISP fees may apply.
An update can consist of bug and security fixes and new features in a version of Windows. They tend to roll out throughout the year. An upgrade is when you change versions—for example, moving from Windows 10 to Windows 11, or moving editions from Windows Home to Windows Pro.
The free upgrade offer does not have a specific end date for eligible systems. However, Microsoft reserves the right to eventually end support for the free offer.
Yes. You do not have to upgrade to Windows 11. We will continue to support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.
No. Windows 11 and Windows 10 require approximately the same amount of disk space. During the upgrade process, however, extra space is required. Windows will clean up this extra disk space about 10 days after the upgrade is complete.
Windows 11 is the newest version of Windows. However, we will continue to support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.
By default, all your files and data will transfer. However, we recommend backing up your files before installation. Learn more about OneDrive PC folder backup.
Yes. After you have installed the Windows 11 upgrade, there is a 10-day period where you can move back to Windows 10 while keeping files and data that you brought along with you. To go back to Windows 10, select Start> Settings> System> Recovery> Go back. After the 10-day period is over, you will need to back up your data and do a “clean install” to move back to Windows 10.
Downloading and installing Windows 11 will most likely take longer than a typical Windows 10 feature update. You can use your PC while you’re downloading Windows 11 and you also have the option to schedule the installation to happen at a specific time when you aren’t planning on using your PC. Once it is downloaded and ready to install, you will be guided through the installation process, which includes a series of screens and prompts. There will be at least one restart. By default, all your files and data will transfer. However, we recommend backing up your files before installation. Learn more about OneDrive PC folder backup. Note that in areas where the internet is metered, ISP fees may apply. If your organization manages your PC, please contact your company’s IT department about getting Windows 11.
If your PC meets the minimum hardware specifications, the Windows 10 Home edition in S mode can upgrade to the Windows 11 Home edition in S mode. If your Windows 10 PC is running the Pro edition in S mode, you will need to switch out of S mode to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro. Windows 11 Pro edition is not available in S mode.
Windows Update will provide an indication if PC is eligible or not. Check by going to Settings > Windows Update. Many PCs that are less than five years old will be able to upgrade to Windows 11. They must be running the most current version of Windows 10 and meet the minimum hardware requirements.
Learn about Windows 11 for your business.
The free upgrade is for the same edition as you have on your Windows 10 device. If you have Windows 10 Home edition, you will be upgraded to Windows 11 Home edition.
Devices eligible for the upgrade to Windows 11 do not have any special geographic limitations and can be offered for sale in all markets where Windows is sold.
There will be a few ways to identify a device eligible for the upgrade to Windows 11. We have currently developed a system to include markers for: device boxes, packaging, printed fact tags, in-box flyers, printed catalogues, in-store signage, product webpages, web banners, retail demonstration experiences, and print and digital ads. You can also check to see if it meets the minimum hardware requirements.
Windows 11 offers enhanced performance, comprehensive security, and a new design. New features like snap layouts, widgets, and chat give you the ability to find what you need and to connect with who you need to quickly. To learn more about the easy-to-use Windows 11 features, click here.
Check Settings > Windows Update to see if your PC meets the minimum system requirements and to confirm that the upgrade is ready for your PC. Once the upgrade is ready, we recommend that you initiate the free upgrade to Windows 11 right away. This allows you to experience the benefits of Windows 11.
Microsoft 365 and Windows 11 are optimized to work together and give you the best customer experience. To learn more, view the Microsoft 365 page.
PC Health Check is an app on your PC that helps you understand the health of your computer better. It will also let you know if your computer meets the minimum system requirements to upgrade to Windows 11. And if your computer is not eligible for the upgrade, it will show you why. See this article for more information on how to run PC Health Check.