How to Upgrade Windows on Your PC: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on August 20th, 2024. 

Updating your PC's operating system can seem daunting, but it's often a lot smoother and more manageable when broken down into precise steps. One great example of this is upgrading to Windows 11, which introduces a host of new features that can notably enhance your user experience. 

Rather than diving headfirst into the process, it’s wise to take a more measured approach that ensures everything goes off without a hitch. By methodically making your way through the upgrade, you minimize potential issues and can enjoy a seamless transition, gaining access to modern advancements in security, performance, and interface design. 

Preparing Your PC for the Upgrade 

Before diving into the Windows upgrade, it's important to check if your current system meets the Windows 11 system requirements. This involves confirming that your PC has a compatible processor, sufficient memory, and other specifications. 

For instance, Windows 11 requires a minimum of 4GB of RAM, but considering a RAM upgrade to 8GB or more can provide a much better experience. Also, your processor should be a 1GHz 64-bit processor, and you'll need at least 64GB of storage. 

Checking these requirements ahead of time will save you from potential compatibility issues down the line. If unsure, a quick visit to our service centre can help you verify your PC's specs and suggest necessary upgrades. 

Backing up your essential data is a key step before any computer upgrades. Ensuring your files, documents, photos, and other important data are safely backed up can prevent data loss during the Windows upgrade. 

You can use an external hard drive, cloud storage services such as Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox for this purpose. Most modern backup solutions are user-friendly, so no need to fret. 

Also, consider creating a system image, a snapshot of your current system settings and installed applications, which can be handy if you need to revert to your previous setup. Start the backup process well in advance to allow adequate time for large amounts of data to be copied securely. 

Next, make sure your current Windows 10 is fully updated. This guarantees that your operating system is equipped with the latest security patches and updates. To verify, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and click “Check for updates.” 

If there are any pending updates, make sure to install them. It's also a great time to update your drivers and resolve any existing system issues. Doing so can mitigate potential upgrade problems and enhance overall system performance. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 

Once your system is fully backed up and updated, it's time to download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. This official tool from Microsoft is designed to simplify the upgrade process, ensuring that everything is done correctly and efficiently: 

To find it, navigate to the Microsoft website’s Windows 11 download page. You'll see several options for how to upgrade, but the Installation Assistant is the most straightforward choice for existing Windows 10 users.  

• Click on the 'Download Now' button under the Windows 11 Installation Assistant section. The download should be relatively quick, but this of course depends on your internet speed. 
• After downloading, open the file and follow the on-screen prompts. The assistant will perform a compatibility check on your PC and confirm if your system meets the requirements for upgrading to Windows 11. 
• If all checks are clear, it will prompt you to begin the installation. It’s a largely automated process, designed to minimise user intervention and reduce the risk of mistakes. 
• During this step, it's important to have your PC connected to a power source to avoid any interruptions that might occur due to power loss. 

While the Windows 11 Installation Assistant does its job, it’s a good idea to keep your system idle, avoiding heavy usage like running demanding applications or games. This ensures that the upgrade process can proceed smoothly and efficiently. 

The time taken for the upgrade can vary based on the performance of your hardware and the speed of your internet connection, so patience is key. Grab a cup of tea, relax, and let the assistant work its magic. 

It will first download the necessary files, which might take some time depending on your connection. Once the files are ready, it will proceed with the installation, during which your PC will restart several times. 

Don't be alarmed by these resets; they are a part of the installation process. The interface will keep you informed of the progress, showing percentages so you know how far along it is. Should you encounter any prompts during the upgrade, read them carefully to make sure you understand what's being asked before proceeding.  

After the installation completes, Windows 11 will set up your PC, which involves a few more restarts and configuration steps. Upon finalising, you’ll be greeted with the new Windows 11 interface, which looks quite different but is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. 

Take your time to explore the new features. Customisation options and new layouts will enhance your productivity and digital experience. If you've backed up your data, now is the time to restore it. 

Verify that all your applications are functioning as expected. If any software seems to be incompatible, reinstalling or updating the application might resolve the issue. 

Post-Upgrade Tips and Troubleshooting 

After completing the Windows 11 upgrade, it's time to focus on post-upgrade tasks and troubleshooting to ensure your system is running smoothly. One of the first things you should do is to restore your files from your backup. 

If you have used an external hard drive, simply connect it to your PC and start transferring the data back to its original locations. For those who used cloud storage, download the necessary files from your preferred service. 

Verify that all your important documents, photos, and other data have been correctly restored. If you encounter any issues during this process, double-check the backup files for errors. 

Simultaneously, begin reinstalling any software applications that you frequently use. Not all programs will carry over automatically during the Windows upgrade; thus, you may need to reinstall them manually. 

Have your software installation files (setup.exe files) and any necessary license keys handy to facilitate this process. 

Customising your new Windows 11 settings can greatly enhance your user experience:  

• Start with personalising the desktop, taskbar, and Start menu to suit your preferences. 
• Right-click on the desktop to access 'Personalize' where you can change background images, themes, colours, and more. 
• The new centred Start menu might take some getting used to but remember you can shift it to the left from the taskbar settings if you prefer the older layout. 
• Go through Settings > System > Display to adjust the screen resolution and scaling, especially if you have multiple monitors. 
• In Settings > Personalisation > Themes, you can also select from a range of themes or create custom ones to give your desktop a unique look. 
• Windows 11 offers enhanced virtual desktops; you could set up different desktops for work, entertainment, and other activities. 
• The Widgets panel can be customised to show relevant information like weather, news, and calendar events. 

Spend some time exploring these settings to make the OS work for you. If you're unsure or need detailed guidance, our computer repair services are always here to assist. 

Despite thorough preparation, sometimes issues can arise post-upgrade. Common troubleshooting steps should start with ensuring all drivers are up-to-date. Head to Device Manager to check for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark, indicating driver issues. 

You can update these drivers manually or use trusted software to assist you. If you’re experiencing sluggish performance, consider tweaking performance settings via Settings > System > Power & battery and selecting 'Best performance.' Additionally, run the built-in troubleshooter found in Settings > System > Troubleshoot for common problems. 

For more specific issues like network connectivity or software compatibility, delve into the respective settings or reinstall problematic applications. However, if you face significant challenges that disrupt your work or daily use, professional help is advisable.  

Related: https://goodasnewpcrepairs.co.uk/blog/pc-startup-issues 

Final Words 

As you immerse yourself in the new world of Windows 11, maintaining your system's health becomes increasingly important. We've guided you through backing up your data, updating your system, and using the Windows 11 Installation Assistant for a seamless upgrade. 

All these steps ensure that your transition is smooth and that your PC continues to run efficiently on the latest operating system. However, should you need any additional support or wish to experience the benefits of a hardware upgrade, such as switching to a faster SSD, do not hesitate to reach out to us. 

At Good As New Computer Repair Specialists, ou services also include replacing your existing hard drive with a lightning-fast SSD and restoring all your files, making the most of your Windows 11 setup. We install the latest Windows 10 and 11 operating system for you on a lightning-fast SSD and replace all your files from HDD. Such upgrades can provide noticeable improvements in your system's speed and overall performance, making your computing experience even better. 

Investing in quality hardware and keeping up with the latest software updates doesn't just elevate your workstation; it safeguards your data and ensures long-term reliability. With our expertise in computer repairs and upgrades, we're committed to providing support tailored to each user's unique requirements. 

Contact Us Now! 

Feel free to contact us by phone at +077 0604 9468 or email us at [email protected]. Remember, a well-maintained and regularly updated PC is key to a hassle-free digital experience. Don't hesitate to reach out for professional advice and services that keep your system in top shape.