Does Upgrading to Windows 11 Delete Everything? (Explained Now)

Windows 11 Overview

Windows 11, launched in 2021, focuses on modern design, performance, and cross-device integration. Compared to Windows 10, it features a centered taskbar, rounded corners, and a simplified Start Menu (without Live Tiles). Key upgrades include "Snap Layouts" for multitasking, "irectStorage“ for faster game loading, and limited “Android app support”via Amazon Store. It also enhances touch controls and integrates better with mobile devices through Phone Link. So, many users tend to upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10 for better experience.

However, does upgrading to Windows 11 delete everything, such as personal files, programes, games or etc? This common concern discourages most users from proceeding further.

Does Upgrading to Windows 11 Delete Everything?

When upgrading to Windows 11 via the standard upgrade process (through Windows Update), your personal files, installed apps, games, and system settings are preserved. Microsoft’s in-place upgrade is designed to keep your data intact. However, there are exceptions and scenarios where data might be affected:

What’s Preserved (Not Deleted):

• Personal files: Documents, photos, videos, downloads, etc.
• Installed apps and games: Most programs will carry over.
• System settings: Wi-Fi passwords, desktop preferences, user accounts, etc.
• Browser data: Bookmarks, history, and saved passwords (if synced or stored locally).

What Might Be Modified or Removed:

• Outdated or incompatible software/drivers: Older apps or drivers not optimized for Windows 11 may stop working and require updates.
• Customizations: Third-party themes or tweaks (e.g., taskbar mods) could reset to default.
• Temporary files: The upgrade process may clear temporary system files to free up space.

When Data Could Be Deleted:

• Clean installation: If you manually create a bootable USB and perform a fresh install, this will erase all data on the system drive (C:).

• Hardware incompatibility: Forced upgrades on unsupported devices (via workarounds) might lead to instability or data loss.
• Upgrade failures: Rarely, a corrupted upgrade process could result in data loss (always back up first!).

Does upgrading to Windows 11 delete everything? That depends. A standard Windows 11 upgrade keeps your files and apps safe. Only manual clean installations or unstable upgrades pose a risk.

Expert Tips: Safeguard Your Data During Upgrading to Windows 11

Upgrading to Windows 11 is generally safe, but proactive steps ensure your data stays secure. Here’s how to minimize risks:

1. Backup Everything First

Use cloud storage (OneDrive, Google Drive) or external drives to save critical files. Alternatively, you can create a recovery drive for a full backup when necessary.

2. Verify App Compatibility

Check vendor websites for Windows 11 compatibility, especially for: Antivirus software (may require reinstallation). Niche or older programs (e.g., legacy business tools).

3. Use Windows Update for a Safe Upgrade

Avoid third-party tools. Stick to “Settings > Windows Update”for the official, data-preserving path.

4. Create a System Restore Point

Type “Create a restore point”in the Windows search bar, and set one manually before upgrading.

5. Check Driver Compatibility

Update GPU, chipset, and peripheral drivers before upgrading to prevent crashes or data corruption.

6. Avoid Interruptions

Ensure stable power (laptops: charge to 100%). Pausing mid-upgrade can corrupt files.

7. Clean Install? Double-Check!

Clean installs wipe all data. Only use this method if you have backed up everything, or you need a fresh start (e.g., resolving malware issues).

What to Do If Data Is Lost During Windows 11 Upgrade? Recovery Solutions

If you’ve lost personal files or data during a Windows 11 upgrade, don’t panic. Follow these steps to recover your data and troubleshoot the issue:

1. Check the "Windows.old" Folder

Windows automatically creates a backup of your previous OS (Windows 10) in a folder named “Windows.old”during the upgrade. This folder retains files from your old system for up to 10 days.

• Open "File Explorer"> Go to ”C:\”(system drive).
• Look for the “Windows.old”folder.
• Inside, navigate to “Users\[YourUsername]”to recover documents, downloads, desktop files, etc by simple “copy and paste.”

2. Restore from Backup

If you created backups before upgrading, use them now:

File History: Go to “Settings > System > Storage > Advanced backup options.”Click “Restore files from a current backup”.

Cloud Backups (OneDrive, Google Drive, etc.): Log in to your cloud account and download lost files.

System Image Backup: Use a recovery drive or installation media to boot into recovery mode and select “System Image Recovery”.

3. Recover via System Restore

If the upgrade caused system instability or partial data loss, roll back to a previous restore point: Type “Create a restore point”in the Windows search bar. Click “System Restore”> Choose a restore point created before the upgrade. Follow prompts to revert your system.

4. Recover Data via MyRecover

The above 3 methods are useful on the condition that you have made a backup before upgrading to Windows 11. What if you have not created any backup? If the data is critical, consider employing reputable data recovery tools. For an optimal results, you can try MyRecover, which can scan hard drive and retrieve lost files with easy steps.

No matter what type of files you’ve lost—images, videos, audio files, archives, etc.—from any storage device such as HDD, SSD, USB flash drive, or SD card, you can recover them with minimal effort. Now you can free download the software and have a try.

Step 1. Install MyRecover on your computer.

Step 2. Click the drive where the lost data stored and click on "Scan."

Step 3. After the scanning, all recoverable files will be displayed. Choose what you need and click on "Recover."

Step 4. Select a destination drive to contain the recovered files.

Step 5. Wait for the process to accomplish.

If you cannot boot up your computer to recover data after upgrading to Windows 11, MyRecover Professional enables you to first create a bootable rescue media, boot computer from it to enter WinPE mode and then recover data from the failed computer.

Summing Up

Now you might have a clear understand of the question: does upgrading to Windows 11 delete everything. In general, upgrading to Windows 11 is a smooth and data-preserving process for most users when done through the official Windows Update path. Personal files, apps, and settings typically remain intact. However, risks like incompatible software, driver issues, or manual clean installations (which erase all data) underscore the importance of proactive backups and compatibility checks.