Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. If you're still on it, the first question is whether your PC can run Windows 11. If it can, upgrading from a genuine, activated copy of Windows 10 is free. Here's how to check and what to do either way.
1. Windows 11 minimum requirements
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1 GHz or faster, 2+ cores, on Microsoft's list of supported 64-bit CPUs |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB or more |
| Firmware | UEFI, Secure Boot capable |
| TPM | Version 2.0 |
| Graphics | DirectX 12 compatible |
| Other | HD display over 9 inches; Home edition needs internet and a Microsoft account during setup |
The usual blockers are the CPU, TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. Roughly speaking, CPUs from about 2018 onward (such as Intel 8th gen and AMD Ryzen 2000 series and newer) are on the list, but always check your exact model against Microsoft's official list. You can find your CPU model with our PC specs tool or in Settings > System > About.
2. Check everything with PC Health Check
- Download the PC Health Check app from Microsoft's website and install it.
- Open it and select Check now in the Windows 11 section.
- If it says your PC meets the requirements, you're good to go. If not, it tells you which item failed.
3. Check TPM and Secure Boot yourself
- TPM: press Win + R and type
tpm.msc. Look for Specification Version: 2.0. "Compatible TPM cannot be found" means it's off or missing. - Secure Boot: press Win + R, type
msinfo32, and check Secure Boot State. If BIOS Mode says Legacy, you'd need to switch to UEFI.
4. Turn on TPM in the firmware
Many PCs have a TPM that's simply switched off. In the BIOS/UEFI settings it's often called Intel PTT (Intel) or AMD fTPM (AMD). The menu location varies by maker, so check your motherboard or laptop manual.
Switching from Legacy to UEFI mode can stop the PC from booting if the disk uses the older MBR layout. If you're unsure, back up first and follow your manufacturer's instructions, or ask a technician.
5. Upgrade for free
- On Windows 10, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- If you see the Windows 11 upgrade offer, select Download and install.
- No offer? Use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft's Windows 11 download page.
Your files and apps stay in place, but back up anyway. For 10 days after upgrading you can go back via Settings > System > Recovery > Go back.
6. If your PC can't upgrade
- Extended Security Updates (ESU): personal Windows 10 PCs can enroll in the consumer ESU program to keep getting security updates. Per Microsoft's current ESU page, enrollment and coverage run through October 12, 2027. You can enroll at no extra cost by syncing your PC settings with Windows Backup, by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or with a one-time purchase. Look for Enroll now in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Installing on unsupported hardware is possible with workarounds, but Microsoft doesn't recommend it and doesn't guarantee updates.
- If you buy a new PC, see the backup section of our Windows 11 install USB guide for moving files.
FAQ
Does the upgrade cost anything?
No, as long as your Windows 10 is genuine and activated.
Will I lose my files?
A standard upgrade keeps files and apps. A backup is still a smart precaution.
Can I keep using Windows 10?
It will keep running, but without ESU it no longer gets security updates, which makes it riskier to use online.