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When Windows decides that it isn't interested in completing an upgrade, it can be maddeningly unhelpful, spitting out error codes and cryptic messages that can leave even experts scratching their heads.
Also: How to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11 - for free
That can happen with a routine Windows 11 feature update, but it's especially frustrating when you're trying to install Windows 11 on an older PC before Windows 10 support ends.
Over the years, I've had a lot of practice with this sort of thing, including hundreds of email sessions with readers trying to figure out why their upgrade isn't working. The troubleshooting process can sometimes be tedious, but there's usually an answer.
1. Check for missing updates, especially firmware
I've heard from several readers who encountered issues with upgrading that were resolved after they tracked down some crucial driver and firmware/BIOS updates.
Also: Microsoft said these 400 readers couldn't upgrade to Windows 11. They did it anyway
That's an especially useful piece of advice if you're working with an older PC. Those firmware and BIOS updates can often resolve all sorts of problems -- big and small.
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