Troubleshooting Windows 11 Upgrade Issues on Dell Desktop: Persistent Reboot to Windows 10
Upgrading an operating system can sometimes present unforeseen challenges, even when the hardware and software meet the necessary requirements. If you’ve been attempting to upgrade a Dell desktop from Windows 10 to Windows 11, but the process appears to complete successfully only to revert back to Windows 10 after reboot, this article will guide you through systematic troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.
Understanding the Scenario
In this scenario, the user has a Dell desktop originally shipped with Windows 10. The device is eligible for the Windows 11 upgrade, and the option was previously visible in Windows Update. Recently, the user decided to proceed with the upgrade but encountered a repeatable issue: despite the upgrade signaling completion and prompting for a reboot, the system reboots into Windows 10 instead of Windows 11. Reattempts via Windows Update and the Microsoft Media Creation Tool yield similar results, with Disk Cleanup efforts not resolving the problem.
Common Causes and Preliminary Checks
Before diving into detailed troubleshooting, here are some key considerations:
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Compatibility Checks: Verify that the device meets Windows 11 hardware requirements, such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, Processor compatibility, and sufficient storage.
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Update Status: Ensure that the existing Windows 10 system is fully updated, as outdated system files can interfere with upgrades.
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System Health: Run basic system diagnostics to identify potential hardware issues.
Troubleshooting Steps
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Confirm Hardware Compatibility
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Use the PC Health Check Tool provided by Microsoft to validate hardware compatibility.
- Verify TPM 2.0 is enabled in BIOS settings.
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Check that Secure Boot is enabled.
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Ensure Windows 10 is Fully Updated
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Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install all available updates.
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Restart the system multiple times until no further updates are pending.
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Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
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Access via Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Windows Update and run the troubleshooter.
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Follow its recommendations to fix any detected issues.
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Clear Windows Update Files Manually
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Run the following commands to stop update services:
“`
net stop wuauserv
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