Upgrading from Windows 10 to 11
Media Creation & Installation
Creating installation media using the Media Creation Tool is a handy way to perform a clean install of Windows or upgrade another device. Here’s how … Let's
Upgrading from Windows 10 to 11
Key details to know about upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11:
System Requirements
To upgrade to Windows 11, your PC must meet the following minimum system requirements:
• Processor: 1 GHz or faster with at least 2 cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
• RAM: 4 GB or more.
• Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device.
• System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
• Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x.
• Display: >9” with HD Resolution (720p).
• Internet Connection: Internet connectivity is necessary to perform updates and to download and take advantage of some features.
Steps to Upgrade
1. Check Compatibility: Use the PC Health Check app to ensure your device meets the minimum system requirements.
2. Backup Your Data: It’s always a good idea to back up your important files before upgrading.
3. Windows Update:
o Open Settings.
o Go to Update & Security.
o Click on Windows Update.
o Click the Check for updates button.
o If Windows 11 is available, click Download and install.
4. Installation Assistant: If the update isn’t available through Windows Update, you can use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from the Microsoft website
5. Create Installation Media: For a clean install or to install on another device, you can create a bootable USB or DVD using the Media Creation Tool
Creating installation media using the Media Creation Tool is a handy way to perform a clean install of Windows or upgrade another device.
1. What is the Windows Media Creation Tool?
o The Media Creation Tool, provided by Microsoft, allows you to create your own installation media using either a DVD or a USB flash drive.
o If you already have a copy of Windows 11 (or any other supported version), you can use this tool to reinstall it on a device or upgrade to a different one.
2. Requirements for Using the Media Creation Tool:
o A computer that already runs Windows 11 (or the version you’re creating media for) and has a stable internet connection.
o Sufficient free space on the system drive of the computer running the tool to hold the installation files.
o A USB flash drive with at least 5 GB of available space (if you’re creating a bootable USB).
o Alternatively, if you prefer using a DVD, you’ll need a blank DVD and a DVD writer.
3. Steps to Create Installation Media: View How-to Video
o First, ensure your computer meets the requirements mentioned above.
o Visit Microsoft’s Download Windows 11 page to get started.
o You’ll see three options:
▪ Windows 11 Installation Assistant: This assists with upgrading your existing Windows 11 installation.
▪ Create Windows 11 Installation Media: Choose this option.
▪ Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO file): Useful if you want to create an ISO file for later use.
o Select the middle option, Create Windows 11 Installation Media, and click Download Now
o Run the downloaded .exe file.
o Accept the license terms, confirm the language and edition for Windows 11, and allow the program to make changes to your computer.
o Choose whether to create a bootable USB drive or an ISO file (which you can burn to a DVD).
o If using a USB drive, make sure it’s connected to your computer before proceeding.
4. Why Use the Media Creation Tool?
o It simplifies the process of creating installation media.
o No need to keep track of multiple installation discs or reenter product keys.
o Handy for upgrading multiple devices or reinstalling after hardware upgrades.
Remember, the Media Creation Tool is your trusty sidekick for Windows installations! Whether you’re setting up a fresh system or upgrading an existing one, it’s got your back.
If you have a bootable installation disc (whether it’s a DVD or a USB drive), you’re all set to install Windows. Let’s walk through the steps:
1. Insert the Installation Disc:
o If you have a DVD, insert it into your computer’s DVD drive.
o If you have a bootable USB drive, plug it into one of the USB ports.
2. Restart Your Computer:
o Restart your computer. As it boots up, pay attention to the screen.
o You’ll need to press a specific key (usually F2, F10, F12, or Esc) to access the boot menu. The exact key varies depending on your computer’s manufacturer. Look for an on-screen prompt that tells you which key to press.
3. Access the Boot Menu:
o When you see the boot menu options, select the one that corresponds to your installation media (either the DVD drive or the USB drive).
o This will temporarily override the normal boot sequence and allow your computer to boot from the installation disc.
4. Windows Setup Begins:
o Once you’ve successfully booted from the installation disc, Windows Setup will start.
o Follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll be prompted to choose your language, time zone, and keyboard layout.
5. Product Key (if required):
If you’re installing Windows from scratch (not an upgrade), you’ll be asked to enter your product key. This is the 25-character code that came with your Windows purchase. If you don’t have a key, see the instructions under the heading Install without a Product Key below.
o If you’re reinstalling Windows on a device that previously, had it activated, you might not need to enter the key again (especially if it’s a digital license tied to your Microsoft account).
6. Select the Installation Type:
o Choose between an upgrade (if you’re reinstalling Windows on the same device) or a custom installation (if you’re setting up Windows on a new device or replacing the existing installation).
o For a clean install, select “Custom.”
7. Partition and Drive Selection:
o If you’re doing a custom installation, you’ll see a list of available drives and partitions.
o Select the drive where you want to install Windows. You can create new partitions or use existing ones.
o Follow the prompts to format the drive (if needed) and proceed with the installation.
8. Wait for Installation:
o Windows will copy files, expand them, and install necessary components. This process may take some time.
9. Set Up Windows:
o After installation, your computer will restart.
o Follow the setup prompts to personalize Windows, create or sign in with a Microsoft account, and configure settings like privacy preferences.
Install
without
a Product Key
No worries! If you don’t have a product key, you can still install and use Windows 10 without any major roadblocks. Let’s walk through the steps:
1. Download Windows 10:
o Head over to the official Microsoft website and download the Media Creation Tool.
o This tool will help you create a bootable USB drive or download the Windows 10 ISO directly.
2. Create a Bootable USB Drive:
o If you’re using a USB drive, run the Media Creation Tool and follow the prompts to create a bootable USB drive with the Windows 10 installation files.
o If you’re on a Mac and planning to install Windows 10 in Boot Camp, you can download the ISO directly from the Windows 10 ISO download page
3. Boot from the USB Drive:
o Insert the bootable USB drive into your computer.
o Restart your computer and access the boot menu (usually by pressing F2, F10, F12, or Esc during startup).
o Choose the USB drive as the boot option.
4. Start the Installation Process:
o Windows Setup will begin. Follow the on-screen instructions.
o When asked to enter a product key, click the “I don’t have a product key” link at the bottom of the window.
o You can also provide a KMS client setup key if prompted (these won’t activate Windows but will allow you to proceed with the installation).
5. Choose Your Version of Windows 10:
o You’ll be able to install either “Windows 10 Home” or “Windows 10 Pro.”
o If you plan to upgrade to a licensed version later, it’s cheaper to install the Home version.
6. Complete the Installation:
o Windows 10 will install normally, and you’ll have a functional system.
o Keep in mind that an unactivated copy of Windows has a few cosmetic limitations, such as customization options for the desktop, menus, and taskbar.
7. Upgrade Later (Optional):
o If you decide to activate Windows later, you can purchase a license from the Windows Store.
o Prices range from $120 for the Home Edition to $200 for the Professional Edition.
Remember, even without a product key, you can still enjoy Windows 10. It’s like having a friendly neighbor who lets you borrow their lawnmower you get the job done without owning one!
Also, remember, the installation process might vary slightly based on your specific situation, but these steps cover the basics.
Enjoy Windows!
o Once everything is set up, you’ll be greeted with the Windows desktop. Congratulations!