As Microsoft prepares for the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, users are encouraged to take proactive steps to ensure a smooth upgrade process. The latest version, Windows 11 24H2, is available for download directly from Microsoft, allowing users to create a bootable USB stick for installation. Even if an immediate upgrade isn’t planned, having this USB stick ready can facilitate a future transition at your convenience.
Before proceeding with the upgrade, it is advisable to retrieve your Windows 10 serial number or product key. This information will be essential during the installation or update process to Windows 11.
Who’s eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11?
Microsoft continues to offer a complimentary upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for eligible devices. This opportunity remains available as long as the device meets the minimum system requirements and utilizes the appropriate upgrade tools, such as the Windows 11 Installation Assistant or Windows Update. However, users should be aware that utilizing certain tools may result in the loss of support for Windows 11.
It is important to note that official support for Windows 10 will cease after October 14, 2025. Following this date, Microsoft will discontinue free security updates, technical support, and bug fixes for Windows 10. For those who wish to maintain their Windows 10 experience, Microsoft offers a paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, providing critical security updates for an additional year at a cost of .
The future of the free upgrade option post-October 2025 remains uncertain, as Microsoft has yet to issue an official statement regarding its continuation. Therefore, users are strongly encouraged to upgrade before the end of support to benefit from the current conditions.
Windows 11 comes with specific hardware prerequisites, including TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and compatible processors from Intel’s 8th generation or equivalent AMD models. Microsoft has firmly stated that these requirements will not be relaxed, meaning older devices will not receive official support. While there are unofficial methods to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, these approaches may lead to stability issues and a lack of updates.
For users with devices that do not meet the necessary requirements, purchasing a new PC pre-installed with Windows 11 is recommended. Microsoft provides various programs and tools to facilitate this transition.
How to check if your PC can be updated to Windows 11 24H2
To determine if your Windows 10 system is eligible for the update, Microsoft offers a free PC Integrity Checker app. Simply launch the tool and click “Check now.” If your PC does not meet the requirements for the update, the app will provide an explanation. In cases where TPM 2.0 is not activated, it can often be enabled in the BIOS settings. However, if your PC lacks this chip entirely, alternative options will be discussed below.
Generally, Windows 11 operates as stably and efficiently as Windows 10—often even more so—though this can vary depending on hardware compatibility. Running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware is a risk that users must consider.
Updating Windows 10 to Windows 11 24H2
To initiate the upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 24H2, visit the “Download Windows 11” website and click on “Download now” under the “Windows 11 Installation Wizard.” If your hardware is compatible, the update process will commence smoothly, preserving all applications, settings, and data.
Prior to the update, it is prudent to back up your computer using the free Microsoft Disk2VHD tool, ensuring that the backup is stored on an external device. This tool creates a virtual hard drive containing all data from your existing drive, safeguarding against potential data loss.
Once the installation begins, click “Next” under “Install Windows 11.” The installation wizard will check for updates and may restart your PC. This process can take several minutes. After confirming the license terms, the update check will run again until the installation wizard is fully updated. Ensure that your PC is connected to the Internet during this process.
In the “Ready for installation” window, confirm that “Keep personal data and apps” is selected. If it is not, you can adjust this by clicking on “Change the items to keep.” Proceed by clicking “Install” to start the update. After successfully upgrading to Windows 11 24H2, check for the latest updates through the Windows settings under “Windows Update.”
Updating Windows 10 to Windows 11 24H2 without compatible hardware
If the Windows 11 Installation Wizard indicates that your PC cannot be updated, there are still options available. Begin by downloading the free Rufus tool, which can be run without installation. You will also need a USB stick with a minimum of 8 GB of storage, noting that all data on the stick will be erased during formatting.
Launch Rufus and confirm your intention to proceed with the update. The tool will connect to the Internet to download the Windows 11 installation files. If you accidentally cancel this option, you can reconnect later in the Rufus settings.
Select the USB stick you wish to use under “Drive,” then click “Selection” under “Start type,” followed by “Download.” Choose “Windows 11” under “Version,” and click “Next.” Under “Release,” select “24H2,” then choose “Windows 11” as the “Edition,” select the language, and opt for “x64” for Architecture before clicking “Download” to save the ISO file.
Once Rufus has downloaded the installation files, or if you have added the ISO manually, click “Start.” The tool will enable all options that could hinder the installation of Windows 11, including the setup of Windows 11 with a local user account. Select the necessary options and confirm the prompt to format the USB stick.
Attention: All data on the USB stick will be erased during this process
This USB stick can then be used to update PCs running Windows 10 to Windows 11 24H2 or to reinstall Windows 11 24H2. In Windows 10, access the USB drive in Explorer and click on “Setup.exe” to begin the installation. Please be patient, as it may take some time for the installation wizard to initiate. The PC will then be updated as previously described.
Author Thomas Joos brings over 40 years of experience in the IT industry, specializing in networks, security, business software, artificial intelligence, and operating systems. His extensive portfolio includes more than 100 publications, and he offers consulting services in security and network infrastructure.
