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Upgrading a Windows 10 virtual machine (VM) to Windows 11 can be a straightforward process if you follow the right steps and ensure your VM meets the necessary requirements. This blog will guide you through the upgrade process and highlight how Microsoft Intune can simplify and streamline this task.

Why Upgrade to Windows 11?

Windows 11 offers a range of new features and improvements over Windows 10, including a redesigned interface, enhanced performance, and better security. Upgrading your VM to Windows 11 can help you take advantage of these benefits, ensuring your virtual environment is up-to-date and secure. This upgrade also supports the latest version of Windows, offering improved user experience, real-time software updates, and seamless integration with Microsoft 365.

Prerequisites for Upgrading

Before you begin the upgrade process, ensure your VM meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11:

  • Processor: 1 GHz or faster with at least 2 cores on a compatible 64-bit processor.

  • RAM: 4 GB or more.

  • Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device.

  • System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.

  • TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.

  • Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x.

  • Display: >9” with HD Resolution (720p).

Additionally, confirm your VM’s compatibility with guest operating systems, as this is crucial for a successful install of Windows 11.

Upgrading Your Windows 10 VM to Windows 11

There are two primary methods to upgrade your Windows 10 VM to Windows 11:

  1. In-Place Upgrade

  1. Download the Windows 11 ISO file.
  2. Ensure your VM’s settings are configured to support Windows 11 (UEFI, Secure Boot, TPM 2.0).
  3. Mount the Windows 11 ISO file to your VM.
  4. Run the setup file from the mounted ISO and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade.

  1. Using a Windows 11 Image

  1. Create a system image of a Windows 11 installation.
  2. Restore this image to your Windows 10 VM using backup and restore tools like AOMEI Backupper.

These methods allow you to perform either a clean installation or upgrade your VM’s current state while maintaining data integrity in tools like File Explorer.

Leveraging Microsoft Intune for the Upgrade

Microsoft Intune can significantly simplify the upgrade process, especially for managing multiple VMs across a business. Here’s how Intune can help:

  1. Device Compliance Policies:

    • Create compliance policies to ensure all VMs meet the Windows 11 system requirements. Intune can automatically check for compliance and notify you of any issues.

  2. Upgrade Deployment:

    • Use Intune to deploy the Windows 11 upgrade across multiple VMs. You can create a deployment package with the Windows 11 ISO and automate the installation process.

  3. Monitoring and Reporting:

    • Intune provides detailed monitoring and reporting tools to track the upgrade status of each VM. You can quickly identify and resolve any issues that arise during the upgrade process.

  4. Security and Configuration Management:

    • Post-upgrade, Intune can help manage security settings and configurations to ensure your VMs remain secure and compliant with your policies.

Advanced Tips for a Successful Upgrade

  • Run Windows Updates to ensure your VM is equipped with the latest patches and drivers.

  • Use Windows Server for advanced control and management of VMs in enterprise environments.

  • Access the Control Panel for detailed configuration during or after the upgrade process.

  • Use cloud computing solutions to back up your VM before starting the upgrade.

Conclusion

Upgrading your Windows 10 VM to Windows 11 can enhance your virtual environment with the latest features and security improvements. By leveraging tools like Microsoft Intune, you can streamline the upgrade process, ensure compliance, and maintain a secure and efficient virtual infrastructure. With proper preparation and execution, your Windows 11 device will deliver improved performance, better file management through File Explorer, and seamless integration with guest operating systems.

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Andrew Reade

ANDREW READE

Andrew is our Digital Marketing Manager and oversees web-based marketing strategies and content creation for the organization. As a marketing veteran, Andrew has worked with organizations of all sizes in a diverse group of industries, from Risk Management to Transportation. Joining the organization in 2021, Andrew is based in Mobile Mentor’s Nashville, TN office.