As the clock ticks down to the end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, Microsoft is making a compelling case for users to transition to Windows 11. While some may have hesitated due to concerns about technical glitches or the complexities of the upgrade process, the time has come to embrace the new operating system.
Step 1: Make Sure Your Files Are Safe
Before embarking on this upgrade journey, safeguarding your files is paramount. The upgrade process, while generally smooth, carries the risk of unforeseen complications. To mitigate this, create backups of your essential documents and cherished photos. Without these backups, you could face the unfortunate reality of permanent data loss.
For local storage, consider investing in an external solid-state drive or hard drive. You have two options for backing up your files:
- Manually copy folders and files from your PC to the external drive using File Explorer.
- Perform a system-wide backup that captures not only your files but also your Windows settings. To do this, access the start menu, type “backup” in the search bar, select “Windows Backup,” and follow the prompts. Ensure you designate your connected external drive as the backup destination.
For those who share my cautious nature regarding data loss, I recommend creating two backups using separate drives. If a second external drive isn’t available, consider utilizing OneDrive, Microsoft’s cloud service, which offers at least 5GB of free storage. Simply run Windows Backup again, selecting OneDrive as the destination for your system-wide backup. Once completed, disconnect your external drives and store them securely.
Step 2: Download Windows 11
With your files safely backed up, it’s time to download Windows 11. There are two primary methods for updating your computer:
- The straightforward approach involves installing Windows 11 over your existing Windows 10. Navigate to the Start menu, select “Settings,” then “Update & Security,” and finally click the upgrade button for Windows 11. This method typically preserves your settings, applications, and files.
- If you’re concerned about compatibility issues on an older PC, consider a “clean” install of Windows 11 from a remote drive. This method completely erases your internal drive before installation, minimizing the risk of legacy files causing conflicts. For this, you’ll need a blank USB flash drive with at least 8GB capacity. Download Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool from their website and follow the instructions to create a bootable version of Windows 11.
Step 3: Run The Installation
To initiate the installation, restart your computer while holding the shift key to access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). Select the option to boot from the USB drive. The Windows Setup page will guide you through the installation process. When prompted, you can choose to preserve your existing files, programs, and settings. For a clean install, select “Custom: Install Windows,” which will wipe your Windows 10 setup clean.
Don’t forget to plug in your external drive during the installation. If you performed a full Windows Backup earlier, you’ll have the opportunity to restore it at this stage. If you opted for a manual file transfer during the backup, simply copy those files back to your computer through File Explorer once the installation is complete.
Step 3A: You Could Try Linux Instead
For those who remain hesitant about transitioning to Windows 11, it’s crucial to recognize that continuing to use Windows 10 beyond its end-of-support date poses significant security risks. Without regular updates, your system becomes vulnerable to malware and other threats.
While installing macOS on a Windows machine has become increasingly challenging, Linux presents a viable alternative. This open-source operating system, rooted in Unix, is renowned for its stability. However, switching to Linux does come with trade-offs, particularly if you rely on Windows-only applications. You may need to explore alternatives, such as using Microsoft Office 365 through your web browser instead of a desktop app.
For newcomers, I recommend starting with user-friendly distributions like Linux Mint or Ubuntu. Both are free to use and supported by a vibrant community dedicated to maintaining security and functionality. If Linux piques your interest, consider exploring guides on how to install it.
