How to Prepare for the Windows 11 Upgrade

Tags Windows11

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10, and our IT team is beginning the process of upgrading your machine to Windows 11. The process is straightforward and takes approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours, including a few system restarts. 

Before beginning, follow the steps below carefully. These must be completed in order to ensure a successful upgrade. If at any point you need support, you're welcome to contact or visit the Support Center in Lewis 048. 

Step 1: Restart Your Computer 

Restart your computer before beginning the upgrade process. This clears up pending tasks and reduces the chance of your system needing multiple restarts mid-upgrade. 

NOTE: If your system hasn't been restarted in a while, it might try to apply updates during the upgrade, which can delay or interrupt the process. 

Instructions on How to Restart your device:

  1. Click the Start Menu

    • Located in the bottom-left corner (Windows icon).

  2. Click the Power Icon

    • It looks like a circle with a vertical line at the top.

    • Found just above the Start button (left side menu).

  3. Select “Restart”

    • Click Restart from the dropdown list.

    • The device will close all applications and reboot.

Step 2: Back Up All Files 

To prevent any data loss, you must back up all your important files before upgrading. 

Confirm OneDrive is Connected: 

  1. Locate the OneDrive icon (a blue cloud) near the clock in your system tray. 

  1. Hover over it—it should say "Up to date." 

  • If it doesn't, click the icon and sign in if prompted. 

Move Local Files: 

  • Any files not in your Documents, Desktop, or Pictures folder should be moved into one of those folders to ensure they're backed up by OneDrive. 

Sync Your Files: 

  1. Click the OneDrive icon again. 

  1. Open Settings (gear icon) > select Settings. 

  1. Click Manage Backups. 

  1. Make sure the toggles for Documents, Desktop, and Pictures are ON.

  2. Save any changes. 

  1. If you made changes, click the cloud again to resync. Hover to ensure it says "Up to date." 

OPTIONAL - Step 3: Sync Your Browser Settings 

To avoid losing browser favorites or settings: 

  • Ensure your default browser is signed in and syncing. 

  • Not sure how to back up your browser? You can either: 

  • Look up how to export your favorites/bookmarks, or 

  • Call the Support Center and we’ll walk you through it. 

Once you've completed these steps, you're ready to move on to the upgrade steps. 

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