What to know before upgrading to Windows 11?
John Castro
Published Jan 23, 2026
9 Things to Do Before Updating to Windows 11
- Ensure Compatibility. Start by checking if your PC can even run Windows 11 properly. ...
- Enable Trusted Platform Module (TPM) ...
- Enable Secure Boot. ...
- Backup Your Data. ...
- Optimize Storage. ...
- Remember Your Microsoft Account. ...
- Arrange Stable Internet Connection. ...
- Plug-In Charger.
Should I do anything before upgrading to Windows 11?
Windows 11 will start rolling out to eligible computers on October 5. If you plan to upgrade, there are several things you want to do before beginning the process manually, like checking hardware compatibility, enabling required security features, creating a backup of the current setup, and more.What do I need to know about Windows 11 upgrade?
A slick new interface, better security, updated apps, and info widgets are just some of the perks of upgrading to Windows 11. Here's why you should do it sooner than later. There's something to be said for staying up to date. Windows 11 is the first major update of the leading desktop operating system in seven years.Is it safe to upgrade to Windows 11 now?
Make no mistake, Windows 11 is still a safe design choice, even though some of the changes are rather polarizing. However, it's a much better execution than Windows 8 was. Windows 8 was Microsoft's attempt to make a modern operating system that wouldn't feel foreign to primarily mobile users.Will upgrading to Windows 11 affect my programs?
You may opt-in to maintain your files and apps when upgrading to Windows 11, so you won't lose any data. Those features that will not be found in Windows 11 are as follows: Math Input Panel Desktop Wallpaper News & Interests. Quick Update.BEFORE you update to Windows 11 - do these 5 things!
Does installing Windows 11 delete everything?
The answer is No, but it is still recommended to backup your files just in case your files have been lost. If you passed the minimum requirements on your device to update your Windows 10 to Windows 11, you can proceed without any problem. If not, you can still stay on Windows 10 if you want.Are there any problems with Windows 11?
Other fairly routine Windows 11 problems include the OS being incredibly slow or freezing, memory issues, the startup menu being unresponsive and PCs with modern AMD processors suffering from a noticeable dip in performance, especially when gaming.Is Windows 11 any good?
It's Still an Excellent Operating SystemDespite these qualms, there's a lot to love in Windows 11: the lovely new rounded window corners and Fluent translucent design touches, Snap Layouts, Widgets, Android App capability, Focus Sessions in the Clock app, and PC gaming improvements.
What features are lost in Windows 11?
List of missing features in Windows 11
- The app folder feature is currently not available, but it is set to return with Windows 11 version 22H2.
- It is not possible to have an all apps view only.
- You cannot pin Settings pages to Start.
- You cannot remove recommended section.
- No badges support.
How long does Windows 11 take to install?
If you're installing Windows 11 from scratch, using a USB installation drive, on a powerful computer equipped with a fast NVMe solid-state drive and a good internet connection, the whole process should take somewhere between 10 to 20 minutes at most.Is 8gb RAM enough for Windows 11?
If you want to use Windows 11 on your computer, we recommend having at least 8 GB of RAM. If you were thinking about upgrading your PC, whether it's just a RAM upgrade or a whole new computer, now's the time.What should I do first in Windows 11?
10 Things to Do After Installing Windows 11
- 30 Must-Have Apps For Windows 11. ...
- Update drivers. ...
- Uninstall unnecessary apps. ...
- Add (missing) useful apps. ...
- Clear Taskbar Menu clutter. ...
- Personalize Windows 11. ...
- Check Privacy Settings. ...
- Check Power Settings.
What are Windows 11 requirements?
Hardware requirementsProcessor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or system on a chip (SoC). RAM: 4 gigabytes (GB) or greater. Storage: 64 GB* or greater available storage is required to install Windows 11.
Will Windows 11 delete my apps?
The answer is No. As long as you select "Keep personal files and apps" during Windows Setup, you shouldn't lose anything.Do I need to backup before installing Windows 11?
Back up your filesBy default, your files and data will transfer to your new PC. We recommend you back up your files before you install Windows 11. To learn how, see Back up your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders with OneDrive.
What apps dont work on Windows 11?
The following software, including the apps and Windows Store apps, are no longer bundled with Windows 11:
- 3D Viewer.
- Internet Explorer.
- OneNote for Windows 10.
- Paint 3D.
- Skype.
- Wallet.
- Xbox Console Companion.