Upgrading to Windows 11

Windows 11 is the one place for it all. With a fresh new feel and tools that make it easier to be efficient, it has what you need for whatever’s next.

To see if your current Windows 10 PC is eligible for the free upgrade to Windows 11, you can check in a few different ways. And if you buy a new Fierce PC or have bought one recently, that computer will also be eligible for the free upgrade. 

Installation

 

Some users can download Windows 11 the same way you'd get any new version of Windows. Just go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click Check for Updates. If available, you'll see Feature update to Windows 11. Click Download and install.

 

However, note that the Windows 11 rollout will be slow - it could take months before it's available on your device. New PCs will get the upgrade first, and all compatible devices are expected to receive it by mid-2022, depending on device age and hardware.  

 

If the upgrade isn't available to you yet, but you want to upgrade now, you have a few options. The best and simplest option will be to download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. Choose Run after the download to make sure your hardware is compatible. Then Accept and Install to agree to the licensing terms and begin the installation. When the program is finished installing, you'll be prompted to restart your computer. Your PC might restart several times during the process of finishing the installation, so don't be alarmed. Just keep your PC on until everything's done.

 

If you're not able to use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant, you have a couple of backup options, but be warned that these are more complicated. We seriously advise that you consider waiting for the update to come to your device. If you're certain you want to proceed, you can create Windows 11 installation media or an ISO file. Microsoft's download Windows 11 page has those steps in greater detail.

 

 

Download Windows 11 Installation Assistant

Introducing Windows 11

Bringing you closer to the people and things you love - PCs preloaded with Windows 11 are available now!

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What’s the difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Windows 11 has all the power and security of Windows 10 with a redesigned and refreshed look. It also comes with new tools, sounds, and apps. Every detail has been considered. All of it comes together to bring you a refreshing experience on your PC.
When can I buy a PC that comes pre-installed with Windows 11?
PCs with Windows 11 pre-installed will be available October 5th 2021.
I want to buy a PC now, will I be able to install New Windows later?
Most Windows 10 PCs currently being sold will be able to upgrade to New Windows. For the PC to be able to upgrade to New Windows, it must meet the minimum hardware specifications and specific hardware is required for some features found here. The upgrade rollout plan is still being finalised but is scheduled to begin late in 2021 and continue into 2022. Specific timing will vary by device.
How do I know if a new Windows 10 PC I’m considering meets the minimum requirements?
There are a few ways to find out. If you’re currently shopping for a new PC look for “Free upgrade to Windows 11” on the configurator page. Please contact PCSpecialist should you have any queries.
When will I be able to upgrade to Windows 11 on my Windows 10 device?
If your existing Windows 10 PC is running Windows 10 20H1 or later and meets the minimum hardware specifications it will be able to upgrade to Windows 11. The upgrade rollout plan is still being finalized, but for most devices already in use today, we expect it to be ready sometime in early 2022. Not all Windows 10 PCs that are eligible to upgrade will be offered to upgrade at the same time. To see if your PC is eligible to upgrade, refer to the specifications here. Once the upgrade rollout has started, you can check if it is ready for your device by going to Settings/Windows Updates. Similar to how end users are notified when updates are available in Windows 10, end users will see an indication in the notification areas of the taskbar in the bottom right, that the upgrade is available. More information on how that is presented will be available at a later date. Additional desktop notification options may be also be added at a later date.
What are the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11?
The minimum hardware requirements are available here.
How do I know if my current Windows 10 PC meets the hardware requirements for Windows 11?
If you’d like to see if your current PC meets the minimum requirements, you can refer to the minimium specifications here.
What if my PC doesn’t meet the minimum hardware specifications? Can I stay on Windows 10?
Yes! Windows 10 continues to be a great version of Windows. Microsoft has committed to supporting Windows 10 through October 14, 2025.
How will I know when the upgrade is available for my Windows 10 PC?
Upgrades to Windows 11 will begin to roll out late in 2021 and continue into 2022. During this time, we will be doing some behind the scenes testing and validating for your specific PC. Windows Update will provide an indication if and when your PC is eligible. You can check to see by going to Settings/Windows Update. Similar to how end users are notified when updates are available in Windows 10, end users will see an indication in the notification areas of the taskbar in the bottom right, that the upgrade is available. More information on how that is presented will be available at a later date. Additional desktop notification options may be also be added at a later date.
How much does it cost to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11?
It’s free. But only Windows 10 PCs that are running Windows 10 20H1 or later and meet the minimum hardware specifications will be able to upgrade. You can check to see if you have the latest updates for Windows 10 in Settings/Windows Update.
How long will the free upgrade offer last?
The free upgrade offer does not have a specific end date for eligible systems. However, Windows reserves the right to eventually end support for the free offer. This end date will be no sooner than one year from general availability.
What is an upgrade vs. an update?
An update can consist of bug and security fixes and new features in a version of Windows. They tend to roll out throughout the year. An upgrade is when you change versions, for example moving from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Or moving editions from Windows Home to Windows Pro.
Can I keep using Windows 10?
Yes. You do not have to upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft will continue to support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.
Does Windows 11 take up more space on my PC than Windows 10?
No. Windows 10 and Windows 11 require approximately the same amount of disk space. During the upgrade process, however, extra space is required. Windows will clean up this extra disk space about ten days after the upgrade is complete.
Is Windows 11 a Windows 10 replacement?
Windows 11 is the newest version of Windows. However, we will continue to support Windows 10 until October of 2025.
If I upgrade to Windows 11 what will happen to my files?
By default, all your files and data will transfer. However, we recommend backing up your files before installation. Learn more about OneDrive PC folder Backup here.
Can I go back to Windows 10 after I upgrade if I don’t like Windows 11?
Yes. After you have installed the Windows 11 upgrade there is a 10 day period where you can move back to Windows 10 while keeping files and data that you brought along with you. After the 10 days you will need to back up your data and do a “clean install” to move back to Windows 10.
How long does it take to install Windows 11?
Downloading and installing Windows 10 will most likely take longer than a typical Windows 10 feature update. You can use your PC while you’re downloading it and then you have the option to schedule the install to happen at a specific time when you aren’t planning on using your PC.
Can I upgrade my Windows 10 PC to Windows 11 if I’m running S mode?
If your PC meets the minimum hardware specifications, the Windows 10 Home edition in S mode can upgrade to the Windows 11 Home edition in S mode. If your Windows 10 PC is running the Pro edition in S mode you will need to switch out of S mode to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro. Windows 11 Pro edition is not available in S mode.

* Some apps and games sold separately. Microsoft 365 subscription sold separately. Some layouts only available based on display resolution and scale settings.
1. Hardware such as mic and camera may be required. Internet access required, service fees may apply
2. Internet access required. Service fees may apply.
3. Some apps and games sold separately.
4. Some apps shown coming later. Certain apps only available through Microsoft Store app in Windows 11.