Frequently Asked Questions

Update Your Windows Computer with the Windows 11 Operating System

(For a how-to with photos, please see the link at the bottom of this page. Click here for a how-to from Microsoft Support.)

Check which operating system you are currently running:

1. Navigate to “Settings” > “System” > “About.”
2. Under “Windows specifications,” you’ll find the edition and version of your Windows OS.

There are two ways to update:

1. Download the software from the Windows website directly: https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/software-download/windows11
2. Run Windows Update in your device’s Settings menu. You may be prompted to update the OS from that screen.

NOTE: The installation may take a long time (hours). Please be patient while the process runs. Don’t unplug your machine, and don’t move it from your internet connection.

From the Windows Website

1. Navigate to https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/software-download/windows11.
2. Click “Download Now.” This will download the “Windows11InstallationAssistant.”
3. Navigate to this application in your Downloads folder. Double click to begin.
4. You will be prompted to use the PC Health Check app to check compatibility. You must do this to continue. Click the “Get PC Health Check app” link.
5. You will be prompted to download the “WindowsPCHealthCheckSetup” installer. After downloading, double-click the installer to open it in your Downloads folder.
6. Finish the health check.
7. If your computer meets all of the installation requirements, you will be notified. Click the “X” in the window.
8. Navigate back to your Windows 11 installation window and begin downloading and installing Windows 11. This step will take a long time (hours).
9. When the installation is finished, you will be prompted to restart your computer. The computer will install updates and restart. 

From Your Device's Settings Menu

1. Navigate to “Settings” > “Windows Update” > “Check for updates.”
2. Run all updates. If your machine is prompting you to install Windows 10 updates, run those. Restart if necessary.
3. If your Windows Update displays an option to upgrade to Windows 11, select it.
4. You may be asked to run a check to see if your PC meets the Windows 11 system requirements. Click “Check now.”
5. You may be prompted to install a “PC Health Check” app. Install and run the app. When it opens, click the Check Now button.
6. On your Windows Update window, click “Download and Install” if it is available.
7. Click “Accept and Install.”