How to Upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 Before Support Ends
With Windows 10 reaching its end of support on October 14, 2025, now’s the time to make sure your system is ready for the next chapter: Windows 11. Upgrading ensures your PC stays secure, compatible, and future-ready. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it.
Why You Should Upgrade
Once Windows 10 support ends, Microsoft will stop releasing security updates and feature patches. That means your system becomes more vulnerable to malware, hardware driver issues, and compatibility problems with newer software.
Windows 11 offers:
- Better performance and energy efficiency
- Modern design and multitasking tools (like Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops)
- Built-in security improvements like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot
- Improved gaming performance with DirectStorage and Auto HDR
Step 1: Check Your PC’s Compatibility
Before you upgrade, make sure your system meets Windows 11’s requirements.
Minimum specs:
- 64-bit CPU with at least 2 cores at 1 GHz
- 4 GB RAM
- 64 GB storage
- UEFI firmware with Secure Boot
- TPM 2.0 chip
- DirectX 12-compatible graphics
- 9-inch 720p display
How to check:
Download Microsoft’s free PC Health Check Tool and run it. It’ll tell you instantly whether your hardware qualifies.
If your PC doesn’t meet requirements, don’t panic! At CTRL + BUILD + REPAIR, we can evaluate and upgrade compatible hardware (like TPM modules, SSDs, or CPUs) to get you ready for Windows 11.
Step 2: Back Up Your Files
Before any major upgrade, always back up your data. Use:
- An external USB drive
- A cloud backup like OneDrive or Google Drive
- Windows’ built-in Backup and Restore utility
Step 3: Get the Upgrade
There are two safe ways to install Windows 11:
Option 1: Windows Update
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update
- Click Check for updates
- If eligible, you’ll see an option to download and install Windows 11
Option 2: Installation Assistant
If the update doesn’t appear automatically, download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft’s official site and follow the on-screen steps.
Step 4: After the Upgrade
Once Windows 11 is installed:
- Reinstall your apps (if necessary)
- Check Windows Update for driver updates
- Sign in to Microsoft Store to restore your apps and preferences
If you notice slower performance, missing drivers, or hardware compatibility issues, reach out to CTRL + BUILD + REPAIR. We specialize in optimizing and upgrading systems for the best Windows 11 performance.
Bonus: Breathe New Life into Older PCs
Even if your current machine can’t officially run Windows 11, there are still options:
- Install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware (with certain limitations)
- Switch to a lightweight Linux distribution
- Or, let us build you a custom Windows 11-ready PC designed to last for years
Ready to Upgrade?
Whether you need help backing up your files, checking compatibility, or performing the full upgrade, we’ve got you covered.
Contact CTRL + BUILD + REPAIR to schedule a Windows 11 upgrade service and keep your system protected before Windows 10 support ends.


