Upgrade directly to Windows 11 only if PC Health Check confirms that the computer is compatible; installing Windows 10 now is not a good long-term solution because Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025.^1^
1. Check your current Windows version
Press Windows key + R, enter winver, and select OK. Note whether the computer runs Windows 7, 8.1, or 10.
Current Chrome versions require:
- Intel-based PC: Windows 10 or later.
- ARM-based PC: Windows 11 or later.^2^
However, because Windows 10 no longer receives normal security updates, Windows 11 should be the target.
2. Check whether the PC supports Windows 11
If the computer currently runs Windows 10:
- Search the taskbar for PC Health Check.
- Open the app and select Check now under Windows 11 eligibility.
- If it is not installed, download it from Microsoft’s PC Health Check download.
- Review the result, which identifies whether the PC qualifies and any unmet requirements.^3^
Windows 11 requires, among other things, a compatible processor, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, UEFI/Secure Boot capability, and TPM 2.0.^4^
3. If the PC is eligible
Back up important documents and photos before upgrading. Windows Backup can preserve files, settings, apps, and sign-in information.^5^
Then use the recommended installation method:
- Open Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates.
- Install any existing Windows 10 updates and restart if requested.
- When Windows 11 is ready appears, select Download and install.
- Select Accept and install.
- When prompted, select Restart now. The computer may restart several times.^6^
The Windows 11 upgrade is free for qualifying Windows 10 computers.^7^
4. If the PC is not eligible
Do not bypass the Windows 11 hardware checks. Microsoft does not recommend installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware.^6^
The practical choices are:
- Replace the computer with one that supports Windows 11. This is generally the better option if the current PC is already very slow.
- If it currently runs Windows 10, use Consumer Extended Security Updates temporarily. Microsoft states that this can protect eligible Windows 10 devices until October 12, 2027.^1^
- If it runs Windows 7 or 8.1, do not assume a free upgrade is available. Installing Windows 11 from an unsupported older version may require purchasing a license, reinstalling applications, and transferring files; installation can overwrite the existing drive.^8^
References
- Windows 10 support has ended on October 14, 2025 | Microsoft Support
- Chrome browser system requirements - Google Help
- How to use the PC Health Check app | Microsoft Support
- Windows 11 System Requirements | Microsoft Support
- Making the transition to a new era of computing | Microsoft Support
- Ways to install Windows 11 | Microsoft Support
- Upgrade to Windows 11: FAQ | Microsoft Support
- What does it mean if Windows isn't supported? | Microsoft Support