Seems like this question comes back whenever a new operating system gets out. People are wondering if their data, preferences, and personal files will become lost data. Microsoft account will probably help you with most of your lost files, but there’s still a chance of losing data. 

Whether you get a free upgrade or your usual Windows Update to get the latest Windows OS – you may still wonder why this happens. Well, we’re glad to help you out. In this guide, we’re going to settle once and for all – what you will lose while upgrading your system to the next level.

Also - if you’re still wondering whether you should buy the latest Windows – stop! All the reviews state the same: bigger, better, and faster. Can’t really be stronger to fulfill the equation, but you understand. If you worry about the price, here at RoyalCDKeys, we’ve prepared a very affordable option for Microsoft Windows 11. Check it out!

If you’re thinking about updating your system, you may wonder if you can lose data. Most Windows users ask themselves this question as it is one of the most common questions around new operating systems.

It usually takes a lot of work to get it up and running, and there is a loss in the process, but you can take care of it in advance. Depending on how you want to install the new system, it differs between each method.

You can accomplish this task in many different ways. First would be downloading Windows 11 and burning it into a USB drive. Doing it this way, you will have to make space on your computer to install the operating system. And all the data on the partition you choose to install Windows will get wiped.

If you will use Windows 11 Installation Assistant then nothing will be deleted, except for some features that are incompatible with the new system or that have their newer version on Windows 11. These include Math Input Control Panel, Desktop Wallpaper, News & Interests, Quick Update, Keyboard with Touch, The Tablet Mode, and Wallet.

We’re now gonna do a step-by-step on how to install the latest version of Windows on your computer.

It is the single best method to upgrade your operating system. You can download it directly from the Microsoft site. What does it do, and why is it important? Well, it will seamlessly update your Windows to the latest version without losing any data or apps.

But first, you need to check a few things before installing:

• Do you have a Windows 10 license?
• Do you have Windows 10 v. 2004 or higher?
• Do you have 9 GB of free space?

Also, here are the minimum system requirements for Windows 11.

Windows 11 Installation Assistant - Step by Step

First - you need to go to Windows 11 Microsoft’s website and download Windows 11 from the Windows 11 Installation Assistant page. After downloading, click it to launch the process. The Assistant will check if your computer is compatible with Windows 11. License terms windows will pop up; click Accept and continue. Your system will get installed.

After finishing, your PC will restart a few times automatically. And now your system is updated with all your files intact. It is really the best way to do it, and we highly recommend you go this route.

As we’ve stated before, there are many other methods for you to update your system, and in those cases - you may lose some data in the process. How to make sure this does not happen?

Create a Backup 

You don’t want to lose your desktop wallpaper and your Internet Explorer browsing history? Well, you need to do some backup. Data recovery is very easy nowadays, so you’ll just need to find the right way to use it. Also – it’s always good to have a backup just in case, as it is one of the best ways to add another layer of security to your computer.

There are many ways of storing your backup files to prevent data loss. You can put it in the cloud or use one of the many different Microsoft of third-party apps that are available on the market; most of them are free, even with a trial version.

You can also do it manually from your desktop. Just go to your Start menu and search for Control Panel. Go to System and Security. There, you will be able to choose where you want your backup to be. Select the drive or network you want to have a backup of, and you’re ready to go! If you go to File History, you will see the change there.

So, now that we know how to protect ourselves from losing any precious data, let’s go ahead and see what has changed in the new system. It’s more than certain that there are new things in the latest system, so if you have any favorite apps or tweaks in Windows 10, you may lose them too.

User Interface

Once again, Microsoft shocks with the new user interface. It’s similar to what we’ve seen with MacOS with the most important apps on the bar on the down part of the screen and the Start menu in the center. The same goes for the Taskbar. 

As usual in Microsoft products, you can freely adjust it if you need. Also – Windows Explorer looks more like a Mac now, with its clean and smooth looks. Definitely a plus.

Android Apps Integration

This one is really big. With the latest update to the Microsoft Store, you not only gain the ability to download a few apps from it but ALL the Android apps! It’s extremely useful if you also happen to have an Android phone that you use, especially Samsung Galaxy.

Also – we couldn’t help but notice that it’s also a very similar concept to the one we’ve seen on…MacOS.

Better Monitor-Laptop Connectivity

New features such as Snap Layouts and Snap Groups help switch between a desktop and a monitor. It’s really efficient and one of the more interesting features that allow the laptop more freedom with many screens.

Virtual Desktops

It’s much easier now to create and switch to a virtual desktop in Windows 11. We were talking about real monitors, now let’s talk about virtual ones. You can easily switch between multiple desktops now. Create your own virtual desktop for gaming, work or school. Whatever you need – it’s really simple!

Snap Groups & Snap Layouts

Speaking of those – it’s also new! Those are one of the most important apps added to the new system. Those collect the apps you use, “snap” them and minimize for easier switching between different tasks.

Touchscreen, Voice, and Pen Support

This one is especially important in the era of touching your electronic devices constantly. With this, it’s much easier to access your data by touching, speaking, or using a specially designed pen. Of course, most of those elements are best if you happen to have the latest Microsoft Surface computer, but you can take advantage of those elements even if you don’t have Microsoft hardware.

Xbox Features

Windows 11 is the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system, so, with new consoles taking over the market, you can clearly see why they decided to upgrade their system with some Xbox magic.

What can we expect? Well, for starters, we get Auto HDR and DirectStorage from Xbox so that we can improve our gaming experience on the PC hardware. New Windows will also better integrate with Xbox consoles so if you happen to have both of them – you’re in luck!

So, we’ve been through all the instances of what could happen if you’d upgrade to the latest version of Windows. We surely recommend a clean install with Microsoft Windows Installation Assistant – it’s the best course you can take. That way, you will not lose any of your data and will safely go through the whole process without problems.

Also - as we’ve stated before, this new system has many features, and some may need adjusting or reinstalling, so if you happen to have problems with that, you’ll need to check with the software developer if the app is Windows 11 compatible.

Windows 11 is one of the best recent updates and brings it close to the efficiency of the macOS and all the additional features that Microsoft has granted us throughout the years. With this system, we can safely assume that the war on operating systems is going to get more and more intense.

As always, we hope we can help you with your problems and all your doubts. Updating to Windows 11 is a really easy and basic process, so don’t worry about what it will bring, except maybe some new exciting possibilities!

Thanks for checking out our article. We’re glad that we could help you out a little bit. If you have any questions about this or any other software-related topic – please, let us know. We’re happy to help!

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