Upgrading from Windows 10 to 11
The transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11
Is a relatively simple step for most people, and it is also free, provided you already have a legal copy of Windows 10. Microsoft allows a free upgrade to all users whose computers meet the new system's technical requirements. If you have an activated Windows 10 Home or Pro edition, you will receive the same edition in Windows 11 without needing to purchase a new license.
Before you start the upgrade
It is good practice to verify that your computer meets the minimum requirements. Windows 11 requires a modern 64-bit processor, TPM 2.0 support, and the Secure Boot feature. Most newer computers meet these conditions, but older machines may have issues. If your computer does not meet the requirements, the system will not offer you the upgrade, and you will not be able to transition for free.
The process itself is very similar to a standard update.
Simply open the settings menu in the system and navigate to the Windows Update section. If your computer is compatible, the option to download and install Windows 11 should appear there. The installation will proceed automatically, and your files and programs will remain intact. Nevertheless, it is recommended that you back up important documents, photos, and other data before the upgrade to ensure you lose nothing.
Your license does not change during the transition.
If your Windows 10 was activated, Windows 11 will activate automatically after installation. This also applies if you perform a clean installation in the future. You can use your existing digital key or product key from Windows 10 for activation, so there is no need to purchase a new one.
Overall, the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free, simple, and mostly trouble-free. If your computer meets the requirements, you can start anytime directly from your system settings.
How to Check for TPM 2.0 on Your PC for Windows 11 Installation
Before you begin the upgrade to Windows 11, it is wise to check if your computer meets the minimum requirements. One of these is support for TPM 2.0 technology. The following clear, step-by-step guide will show you how to easily find this information.
1. Verify TPM Using the tpm.msc Tool
This is the fastest and most reliable way to check if your computer has an available TPM and what version it is.
- Press the Windows + R keyboard shortcut.
- In the "Run" window, type
tpm.mscand press Enter. - The "Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Management" window will open.
- At the top, you will find the Specification Version information.
- If it says 2.0, your computer meets the requirement.
- If it says 1.2 or you receive a message that TPM is not available, it may be disabled or your device does not support it.
2. Check TPM in Windows Settings
Another option is to view the information directly in the operating system's settings.
- Open Windows Settings.
- Choose the Update & Security option.
- Click on the Device security section.
- Select the Security processor item.
- Here, the TPM version and its status will be displayed.
- If this section does not appear, it means that Windows does not detect your TPM or it is not active.
3. Check in BIOS / UEFI
Some computers have TPM disabled, and it needs to be activated in the BIOS or UEFI.
After entering the BIOS, look for the following items:
- For Intel processors: the setting is usually labeled PTT (Platform Trust Technology).
- For AMD processors: look for AMD fTPM.
After activating it, save the changes and restart your computer. You can then re-verify if Windows detects the TPM.
4. Verify Compatibility Using the Official Microsoft Tool
Microsoft offers the PC Health Check tool, which can check all the requirements needed for installing Windows 11. If you run it, it will immediately tell you whether your computer supports TPM 2.0 and other necessary technologies.
What If Your PC Only Supports Windows 10?
If you have a computer that only supports Windows 10, it is important to be aware that official support has ended. Windows 10 stopped receiving security updates on October 14, 2025. Using this system now is risky because new threats and vulnerabilities are no longer patched.
Nevertheless, there are several options for moving forward:
One option is to utilize the paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
This program is available even for regular home users and allows you to receive additional security updates after standard support has ended. If you do not want to invest in a new computer but need to stay with Windows, this is a safer alternative. Details on the program are available on the Microsoft support page.
Another option is to continue using Windows 10 without support. This path is not recommended, as the system will become progressively less secure over time. An unprotected system is vulnerable to viruses, ransomware, and other attacks, which can compromise your data and privacy.
Installing Windows 11 "unofficially" is also possible, but very risky.
Microsoft does not support such installations, and the system might stop receiving updates or cease to function after a major feature update. This solution is better suited for experimentation rather than everyday use.
A very good and secure alternative is transitioning to a modern Linux distribution. Linux is free, has low hardware requirements, and provides long-term security updates. For general use—internet browsing, office documents, movies, or e-mail—it is perfectly sufficient and often runs more smoothly than Windows on older hardware.
The final option is to purchase a newer computer that meets the Windows 11 requirements. If you need a reliable system with long support and plan for long-term use, this is the most worthwhile investment.