Understanding the Error
The message “This PC can’t be upgraded to this version of Windows” is a common stumbling block for users attempting to move to a newer version of Windows, such as upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 or even applying major feature updates within the same version. This message is not a random glitch—it is a safeguard mechanism built into Windows to prevent incompatible systems from attempting an upgrade that could lead to instability, data loss, or a non-bootable system. While the error can feel frustrating, it is essentially Windows protecting itself and your data from potential harm. The root causes usually involve hardware compatibility, outdated or missing drivers, insufficient resources, or misconfigured system settings. Understanding why this happens is the first step toward resolving it effectively.
For example, if your system lacks a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 chip or does not have Secure Boot enabled, Windows 11 will refuse to install. Similarly, if your storage drive is nearly full, the installer cannot create the temporary files it needs to complete the process. These are not insurmountable problems, but they require methodical troubleshooting.
Common Causes of the Error
- Outdated drivers: Graphics, storage, or network drivers may block the update. For instance, an old Intel Rapid Storage Technology driver is a well-documented cause of upgrade failures.
- Insufficient disk space: Windows requires adequate free space for temporary files, logs, and installation packages. Without enough space, the upgrade halts.
- Unsupported hardware: Older CPUs, lack of TPM 2.0, or missing Secure Boot functionality can trigger the message. Windows 11 enforces stricter requirements than Windows 10.
- Third-party software conflicts: Antivirus, firewalls, or disk encryption tools may interfere with setup. Security software can mistakenly block installer processes.
- Corrupted system files: Damaged or missing Windows files can prevent a smooth upgrade, especially if critical system libraries are affected.
- Peripheral conflicts: Sometimes external devices like USB hubs, webcams, or printers can cause upgrade errors by confusing the installer.
Step-by-Step Fixes
1. Check System Requirements
Before attempting any fix, confirm that your PC meets the minimum requirements for the target version of Windows. Many users overlook this step and waste hours troubleshooting when the real issue is hardware incompatibility. For example, Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, which older motherboards may not support. Microsoft provides a tool called PC Health Check that can quickly verify compatibility.
| Requirement | Windows 10 | Windows 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 1GHz or faster | 1GHz+, 2+ cores, 64-bit |
| RAM | 1GB (32-bit) or 2GB (64-bit) | 4GB minimum |
| Storage | 16GB (32-bit) / 20GB (64-bit) | 64GB minimum |
| TPM | Not mandatory | TPM 2.0 required |
| Secure Boot | Optional | Required |
Tip: If your PC fails the Windows 11 requirements but works fine with Windows 10, you can continue using Windows 10 until its support ends in October 2025.
2. Free Up Disk Space
Windows upgrades need significant temporary storage. Without enough space, the installer cannot unpack files or create recovery points. Users on Quora reported success after clearing 20–30GB of space. Even if you think you have enough, freeing more space improves performance and reduces the risk of errors.
- Open Settings → System → Storage.
- Enable Storage Sense to automatically clear temporary files.
- Manually delete old updates, unused apps, and large downloads.
- Empty the Recycle Bin and clear browser caches.
- Consider moving personal files like videos and photos to an external drive.
Example: A user with only 10GB of free space repeatedly failed to upgrade. After moving personal media files to an external SSD and freeing 40GB, the upgrade completed smoothly.
3. Update Drivers
Driver incompatibility is one of the most frequent culprits. Outdated GPU, storage, or chipset drivers can prevent Windows from recognizing hardware properly during the upgrade. Updating them ensures compatibility with the installer.
- Right-click Start → Device Manager.
- Expand categories like Display adapters, Storage controllers, and Network adapters.
- Right-click each driver → Update driver.
- Alternatively, visit the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, etc.).
Note: Intel Rapid Storage Technology drivers older than version 15.9 are known to block upgrades. Updating or uninstalling them often resolves the issue.
4. Disable or Uninstall Third-Party Security Software
Third-party antivirus or encryption software can interfere with the upgrade process by blocking system file changes. Temporarily disable or uninstall these programs before retrying. Windows Defender will remain active, so your system is still protected.
Tip: After the upgrade, reinstall your antivirus if desired, but check for the latest version compatible with your new Windows version.
5. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows includes built-in troubleshooters that can automatically detect and fix common update problems. This is a quick and safe first step.
- Go to Settings → Update & Security.
- Select Troubleshoot → Additional troubleshooters.
- Run Windows Update troubleshooter and apply suggested fixes.
Example: A user reported that the troubleshooter reset the Windows Update components, after which the upgrade proceeded without errors.
6. Repair System Files
Corrupted or missing system files can block installation. Running System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) commands often resolves these issues.
sfc /scannow dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
These commands scan for corruption and repair damaged files using Windows Update or local sources. Run them in Command Prompt with administrator privileges.
7. Use the Media Creation Tool
If updates fail repeatedly, download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website. This tool allows you to create bootable USB media or perform an in-place upgrade. Many users on forums reported success upgrading manually using this method because it bypasses some of the stricter checks performed by Windows Update.
Steps:
- Download the Media Creation Tool.
- Run it and select Upgrade this PC now.
- Follow the prompts to complete the upgrade.
8. Enable Secure Boot and TPM
For Windows 11, enabling Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 is mandatory. These features improve security by ensuring only trusted software loads during startup. Access the BIOS/UEFI firmware settings and enable them. The exact steps vary by manufacturer, but usually involve pressing Del, F2, or Esc during boot.
Example: A user with a compatible motherboard but disabled TPM in BIOS repeatedly failed the upgrade. Enabling TPM 2.0 instantly resolved the block.
9. Disconnect External Devices
Peripheral devices can sometimes confuse the installer. Remove USB drives, printers, external hard drives, webcams, and other accessories before retrying the upgrade. Once the upgrade is complete, reconnect them one by one.
Real User Experiences
Reddit Insights
On Reddit, many users reported that outdated Intel RST drivers blocked their upgrade. Updating or uninstalling the Intel Rapid Storage Technology driver often fixed the issue. Others noted that simply disconnecting external drives allowed the process to continue.
Quora Discussions
On Quora, users emphasized freeing up disk space and disabling third-party antivirus as the most reliable fixes. Several also mentioned that using the Media Creation Tool bypassed the error entirely. One user described upgrading successfully after moving 50GB of personal files to cloud storage and disabling Bitdefender temporarily.
Preventing Future Upgrade Issues
- Keep drivers updated: Regularly check for updates from hardware manufacturers.
- Maintain free space: Keep at least 30GB of free disk space for smooth updates.
- Enable Secure Boot and TPM: If supported, keep these enabled for security and compatibility.
- Run updates monthly: Avoid large cumulative updates by installing smaller updates regularly.
- Backup files: Always back up important data before major upgrades to avoid data loss.
Tip: Consider using cloud backup services or external drives for redundancy. This ensures that even if an upgrade fails, your important files remain safe.
FAQ
Why does my PC say it can’t be upgraded?
This usually happens due to incompatible hardware, outdated drivers, or insufficient disk space. The error is a safeguard to prevent failed installations and protect your system.
Can I bypass the error?
Yes, in some cases. Using the Media Creation Tool or enabling TPM and Secure Boot can bypass the error if the hardware is otherwise compatible. However, bypassing requirements on unsupported hardware may result in reduced stability or lack of updates.
Do I need TPM 2.0 for Windows 10?
No, TPM 2.0 is only required for Windows 11. Windows 10 can run without it. However, enabling TPM can still improve security features like BitLocker encryption.
Is it safe to uninstall antivirus before upgrading?
Yes, temporarily uninstalling third-party antivirus software is safe and often necessary. Windows Defender remains active to protect your system during the upgrade. After the upgrade, reinstall your antivirus if needed.
What if none of the fixes work?
If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, you may need to perform a clean installation of Windows. This involves backing up your files, creating bootable installation media, and reinstalling Windows from scratch. While more time-consuming, it guarantees a fresh start without lingering compatibility issues.
