WINDOW 11

How to Get a Free Windows 11 Upgrade

5 SOLUTIONS
MARCH 08, 2025

Microsoft offers a free Windows 11 upgrade for eligible Windows 10 users, but the process requires careful preparation to avoid issues. If you want to upgrade without paying, below are multiple ways to do so—legally and safely.

Deepak Yadav
Deepak Yadav

Expert, Head of Windows Circle

Valid Windows 10 License

Your current OS must be activated and genuine.

Hardware Compatibility

64-bit CPU with 1 GHz+ clock speed, 4 GB+ RAM, 64 GB+ storage.

Stable Internet

Required for downloading updates or tools.

Windows Update (Simplest)

1 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

1/5

METHOD
Method 1
Overview

Upgrade to Windows 11 directly through Windows Update with just a few clicks.

Method 1 of 5
Next Method

Open Settings

Press Win + I and go to Update & Security > Windows Update.

Click Check for updates to see if your device is eligible.

If the Windows 11 upgrade is available, click Download and install under the prompt.

Pro Tip: Run the PC Health Check App (from Microsoft’s site) first to confirm compatibility and fix issues early.

Method 1 of 5
Step 1 of 1

Installation Assistant (Manual Tool)

2 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

2/5

METHOD
Method 2
Overview

Use Microsoft’s official tool to upgrade manually if Windows Update isn’t showing the option.

Method 2 of 5
Next Method

Download the Tool

Get the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft’s official site.

Method 2 of 5
Step 1 of 2

Run the Installer

Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions.

Warning: Temporarily disable third-party antivirus/firewall to prevent conflicts during installation.

Method 2 of 5
Step 2 of 2

Media Creation Tool (Bootable USB/DVD)

2 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

3/5

METHOD
Method 3
Overview

Ideal for fresh installs or upgrading multiple PCs effortlessly.

Method 3 of 5
Next Method

Download the Tool

Get the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s official site.

Method 3 of 5
Step 1 of 2

Choose Upgrade or Create Media

Select Upgrade this PC now for an in-place upgrade or Create installation media (USB/DVD) for another device.

Remember: For a bootable USB, use a 16GB+ flash drive and format it to FAT32 before proceeding.

Method 3 of 5
Step 2 of 2

Clean Install via ISO File

3 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

4/5

METHOD
Method 4
Overview

Best for users who want a fresh install without bloatware.

Method 4 of 5
Next Method

Download ISO

Get the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s official site.

Method 4 of 5
Step 1 of 3

Mount ISO & Run Setup

Right-click the ISO file, select Mount, then double-click setup.exe to start installation.

Method 4 of 5
Step 2 of 3

Choose File Retention

Select Keep personal files and apps if you want to retain your data during installation.

Caution: If performing a fully clean install, choose Remove everything for a fresh system start.

Method 4 of 5
Step 3 of 3

Enterprise/Workgroup Upgrades

1 STEPS EASY 2 MIN

5/5

METHOD
Method 5
Overview

Streamlines upgrades across company-managed devices.

Method 5 of 5

Use Windows Update for Business or WSUS

Deploy Windows 11 updates across workstations using Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) or Microsoft Endpoint Manager.

Configure Group Policy settings to manage upgrade schedules, defer updates, and ensure smooth enterprise-wide deployment.

Caution: Test the upgrade on a pilot group of devices before full deployment to catch compatibility issues.

Method 5 of 5
Step 1 of 1

Additional Tips

Image

Avoid Third-Party Tools: Third-party tools claiming to “bypass” requirements risk system instability or malware.

Post-Upgrade Checks: Verify drivers (e.g., graphics, Wi-Fi) are updated via Device Manager or OEM websites.

Methods (5)

Windows Update (Sim...
1 Steps
Installation Assis...
2 Steps
Media Creation Tool...
2 Steps
Clean Install via I...
3 Steps
Enterprise/Workgrou...
1 Steps