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When to Use?
This guide covers upgrading your computer from Windows 10 to Windows 11 using the in-place upgrade method. This method allows for a seamless transition, installing Windows 11 directly over your existing Windows 10 setup. It preserves your files, settings, and applications, making it ideal for community members who prefer a straightforward upgrade without extensive technical intervention. In-place upgrades can be completed remotely, but for the fastest Windows 11 upgrade, we recommend using a wired connection while on campus. Any upgrade has the chance of data loss if interrupted or an error occurs. GVSU IT recommends backing up any critical data before you upgrade. To learn more about backing up data and good data hygiene, please review this knowledge document: Windows 11: Pre-Upgrade Information.
Estimated Upgrade Duration
In-Place Upgrade
| Upgrade Method |
Duration Estimate |
| Wired Internet Connection On-site |
50 Minutes |
| Wireless Internet Connection On-site |
1 Hour |
| Wired Internet Connection Off-site |
2-4 Hours (based on Internet connection speed) |
| Wireless Internet Connection Off-site |
2-4 Hours (based on Internet connection speed) |
Procedure
1. You will receive a pop-up in the bottom right corner of your screen informing you that new software is available.
2. To access the Windows 11 upgrade, click the Start button and type Software Center into the search bar.
3. Click on Software Center under Best Match.
4. After the Software Center has opened, click on Operating Systems.
5. Click on Upgrade to Windows 11 for GVSU Windows 10.
Note: The title of the upgrade will change based on the type of computer you're using. The full title will be listed as either Upgrade to Windows 11 for GVSU Windows 10 Desktops or Upgrade to Windows 11 for GVSU Windows 10 Laptops.
6. Click the Install button.
7. On the pop-up window, click the Install button to confirm you are ready to begin the upgrade.
8. Shortly after clicking install, you will receive a pop-up in the bottom right corner of the screen letting you know that the installation process has started.
9. The pop-up will disappear, and a new window with a progress bar will appear.
10. The progress bar will stay on the screen until the required operations have finished. After the preliminary installation has been completed, you will be notified that the system is going to restart. Please wait until the timer finishes or click the Restart Now button to restart the computer.
11. After restarting, you will see a screen that says Working on updates 0% Please keep your computer on. The operating system will update from Windows 10 to Windows 11 during this step. Do not turn off your computer or disconnect it from power during the update. The computer will automatically restart several times.
12. After the updates have been installed, the computer will restart and bring you to the sign-in screen. Sign in to the computer to continue.
13. After signing in, there will be another pop-up window letting you know the upgrade process is complete and the computer will need to restart a final time. Click the OK button to restart the computer and finish your upgrade.
14. After the computer restarts, your upgrade to Windows 11 is complete! For post-upgrade questions or concerns, please review the following knowledge document: Windows 11: Getting to Know Your New Operating System.