Windows 10 will soon tell you whether your PC is ready for Windows 11

Currently, to check whether you’re eligible to upgrade to Windows 11, Windows 10 users must use the recently revamped preview version of Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool (the one that was briefly released when Windows 11 was first announced and then swiftly pulled due to issues). Soon, Windows 10 users will be getting a direct message from Windows Update on the compatibility status of their PC.

Assuming all is well, you’ll receive the following message: “Great news – your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. Specific timing for when it will be offered can vary as we get it ready for you. Note: Some Windows 10 features aren’t available in Windows 11. Certain apps and features may have additional requirements.”

Or, on the other hand, you’ll be told that your machine won’t support Windows 11. A link is also provided by Windows Update so you can check out the exact device specifications required for the revamped version of the operating system.

This process is Microsoft’s “early warning” system which should help users realize that it might be time to replace that old clunker of a computer with something newer with more bells and whistles.

Mainstream support for Windows 10 ends October 13, 2020 and extended support ends on October 14, 2025. Although Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14th, 2025, both levels could well go beyond those dates since previous OS versions have had their support end dates moved forward after service packs. Windows 10 users will still receive automatic updates, which at some point could be considered a service pack.

But what do the terms “mainstream support” and “extended support” mean? Most importantly, both indicate that the operating system will be updated with critical security fixes as new threats or vulnerabilities are revealed. Updates can also include reliability, performance, and compatibility fixes..

What’s that you say – you haven’t upgraded your Windows 7 PC to Windows 10 yet???
Even though the so-called “free” Windows update period is long closed, you can still upgrade your licensed Windows 7 or Windows 8 PC to Windows 10 for free. Here’s how to upgrade to Windows 10:

1: Back up all of your important documents, apps, and data

2: Head over to Microsoft’s Windows 10 download site

3: In the Create Windows 10 installation media section, select “Download tool now,” and run the app

4: When prompted, choose “Upgrade this PC now.”

You’ll then be asked whether you want to keep your personal files or start fresh. Remember: starting fresh means that all apps and settings will be deleted for the Windows 10 upgrade.

Once the upgrade is complete, you should receive a digital license for Windows 10, which can be found under Settings > Update & Security > Activation.