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Windows 11 update instructions (personal or self-managed computers)

Windows 11 update instructions (personal or self-managed computers)

Owned by Lowell Williamson
Jan 23, 2025
1 min read

These instructions are for personal computers or self-managed computers only.

Before you upgrade

  • Check system requirements: Ensure your device meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. You can use the PC Health Check app to verify compatibility: Meet Windows 11: Features, Look, Benefits & More | Microsoft

  • Test any specialized applications/peripherals with Windows 11, and upgrade as needed

  • Ensure there is enough free space on your computer’s hard drive, before installing Windows 11. Windows 11 requires ~20-30 GB of free space.  See Freeing up hard drive space in Windows 10 - IST Knowledge Base - Confluence.

  • Backup your data: Before upgrading, it's a good idea to back up any important files saved to the local hard drive, to an external drive or cloud storage.

Windows Update method

  • Complete the ‘Before you upgrade’ steps above

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

  • Click Check for updates.

  • If Windows 11 is available for your device, you will see an option to download and install it. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade.

Using the Installation Assistant method

  • Complete the ‘Before you upgrade’ steps above

  • Download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from the Microsoft website: Download Windows 11

  • Run the tool and follow the prompts to upgrade your device.

Resources:

 

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