How to Prepare for the Mandatory Windows 11 Upgrade

Mar 07, 2025

As Microsoft prepares to sunset support for operating systems older than Windows 11, users still running previous versions face a critical decision: transition to Windows 11 or risk falling behind in security, functionality, and support. With a mandatory Windows update on the horizon, there are essential steps you should take to ensure a smooth upgrade experience. Proper preparation will not only safeguard your files and system but will also allow you to take full advantage of the innovative features Windows 11 has to offer, such as the personal AI assistant — Copilot. The AI assistant works best on Copilot+ PCs such as ASUS Zenbook A14, ASUS Vivobook S14, and ASUS Vivobook S16, which offer advantages that are sure to make the transition to Windows 11 worth it!

Getting familiar with the new features of Windows 11 can help you transition smoothly. Windows 11 offers a sleek and modernised user interface, improved virtual desktops, enhanced gaming capabilities, and tighter integration with Microsoft Teams. However, the key addition is Windows Copilot — an AI-driven assistant embedded directly into the operating system. Copilot can help automate tasks, answer questions, and provide contextual assistance based on your activities. It revolutionises the way users interact with their computers.

For business users and productivity enthusiasts, the integration of Copilot offers a glimpse into the future of AI-assisted workflows. ASUS Copilot+ PCs, optimised for advanced productivity, exemplify how hardware and software can work together to deliver a powerful and efficient user experience.

For more information on Windows 11, please visit our Windows 11 FAQ page.

One of the first and most important steps is to verify whether your current laptop or desktop meets the minimum specifications required for Windows 11. Microsoft has outlined specific hardware requirements, including a compatible 64-bit processor with at least two cores or an SoC processor, at least 4GB of RAM, and no less than 64GB of storage. Additionally, devices need to support TPM (Trusted Platform Module) version 2.0 and have Secure Boot capability. To check compatibility, Microsoft provides the PC Health Check tool, which offers a straightforward assessment of whether your computer can handle the upgrade. You can also find all the necessary information about your laptop in the convenient MyASUS app installed on your ASUS laptop.

There are additional requirements for Copilot+ PCs. Meeting these requirements will ensure that you can enjoy unique, AI-powered Copilot+ experiences. To take full advantage of this outstanding feature, your laptop must have a compatible SoC processor with an NPU capable of performing 40+ TOPs, pack at least 16GB of DDR5 memory, and have no less than 256 GB of SSD storage.

If your laptop does not meet the requirements, you may need to consider upgrading to a new device. For those in search of high-performance PCs built with Windows 11 in mind, ASUS Copilot+ PC models are an excellent choice, designed to seamlessly integrate with the system’s features and support AI-powered productivity tools.

After ensuring compatibility, take time to declutter your system by uninstalling unused software and applications. Over time, unnecessary programs and files accumulate, taking up valuable storage and potentially slowing down your system. Some of the apps can also be set to launch on the system startup and always work in the background, taking up some of the available memory. Removing these unwanted elements not only frees up space but also reduces the risk of software conflicts during the update process.

Equally crucial is backing up your data and files. During updates, even though rare, unexpected issues or errors could happen, leading to data loss. Create a full backup of your essential documents, photos, and other critical files. You can use external hard drives, cloud storage solutions such as OneDrive, or third-party backup software to safeguard your information.

Another critical step to take before upgrading to Windows 11 is updating your drivers and firmware. Outdated drivers can cause performance issues and may prevent some components from functioning correctly after the update. Some of these updates can be done via MyASUS, but in some cases you may need to visit a component manufacturer's app or website — e.g., the NVIDIA app for laptops with dedicated GPUs.

It may be a good idea to double-check if your current antivirus will also work on Windows 11 (it should, but no harm in checking). It’s also a good idea to review your security settings, as the app may update after the Windows update, and some of the setting may change. So if you want to keep the things the way they are now, it’s good to check them before and after the Windows update. Security tools play a vital role in protecting your system, and ensuring they are compatible with Windows 11 is essential for a seamless transition.

Before beginning the Windows 11 update, connect your laptop to a power source. A power loss during the process could result in corruption or system errors. A stable internet connection is also crucial for downloading the necessary files and completing the installation.

When all preparations have been made and you’re ready to start the update, be sure to pick a time when you won't need your laptop an hour or two, since downloading and installing the update can take some time.

Lastly, take a moment to mentally prepare for the changes that come with Windows 11. While the system builds upon the familiar foundation of previous Windows versions, its new features and design may require a slight adjustment period. Embracing these changes can unlock new levels of productivity and enjoyment. Keep an open mind and a learning attitude, and you’re in for a good time!

Windows 10 support will end on Oct. 14th, 2025. Although users have an option to pay for extended security updates (ESU) for Windows 10, users of older systems would best act promptly to stay ahead of the transition curve. Offering cutting-edge tools, including the innovative Copilot, Windows 11 promises a future of enhanced efficiency, creativity, and seamless computing ― all of which can be fully experienced on the latest ASUS laptops.