Common Windows 11 Issues & Fixes

Upgrading to a new operating system can sometimes come with unexpected challenges. This page aims to provide solutions for common issues you might encounter with Windows 11, whether during the upgrade process or after installation.

Troubleshooting Common Upgrade Errors

If you're having trouble installing Windows 11, these are some frequent error messages and their potential solutions:

  • "This PC can't run Windows 11":
    • **TPM/Secure Boot:** Ensure TPM 2.0 is enabled and Secure Boot is active in your BIOS/UEFI settings. Refer to our Manufacturer BIOS/UEFI Links page.
    • **CPU Incompatibility:** Your processor might not be officially supported. Consider unofficial workarounds, but be aware of the risks.
  • "Not enough disk space":
    • Free up space on your primary drive (C:). Use Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense.
    • Consider an external drive for temporary storage during the upgrade.
  • Installation stuck or freezing:
    • Restart your PC and try again.
    • Disconnect all unnecessary peripherals (USB drives, printers, etc.).
    • Ensure your installation media (USB) is not corrupted. Recreate it if necessary.
    • Check for BIOS/UEFI updates for your motherboard.

Fixing Common Post-Install Issues

After a successful upgrade, you might encounter issues with devices or performance.

  • Sound Not Working / No Audio:
    • Check volume levels and speaker connections.
    • Go to `Device Manager > Sound, video and game controllers`. Right-click your audio device and select "Update driver" or "Uninstall device" and restart your PC.
    • Download the latest audio drivers from your PC manufacturer's website.
  • Wi-Fi / Internet Connectivity Problems:
    • Restart your router and modem.
    • Go to `Device Manager > Network adapters`. Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and select "Update driver" or "Uninstall device" and restart.
    • Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter (`Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Internet Connections`).
  • Slow Performance / Lag:
    • Ensure all drivers are updated (see Post-Upgrade Checklist).
    • Check Task Manager (`Ctrl+Shift+Esc`) for processes consuming high CPU, RAM, or disk.
    • Run Disk Cleanup or enable Storage Sense to free up space.
    • Disable unnecessary startup programs (`Task Manager > Startup tab`).
  • Apps Crashing or Not Opening:
    • Update the app from the Microsoft Store or its official website.
    • Reset or repair the app (`Settings > Apps > Installed apps > [App Name] > Advanced options`).
    • Reinstall the app.

How to Roll Back to Windows 10 (Official Method)

If Windows 11 isn't working out for you, Microsoft provides a built-in option to revert to Windows 10 within a limited timeframe (usually 10 days, but can be extended up to 60 days).

  • Go to `Settings > System > Recovery`.
  • Under "Recovery options," look for "Go back."
  • Click the "Go back" button and follow the on-screen prompts.
  • Important: This option is only available for a limited time after upgrading. If the option is greyed out or missing, you'll need to perform a clean installation of Windows 10 using installation media.

For more in-depth troubleshooting or if your issue persists, consider reaching out to the broader tech community.