Windows 11/10 is a complete departure from Windows 7, with a new user interface and improved stability and security. Plus, for many users with valid keys, it's a free upgrade. Windows 11/10 also has security software built-in, so you don't need to install additional antivirus programs. It includes ransomware protection, a OneDrive Personal Vault, the Microsoft Store, and the new browser, Microsoft Edge.

One reason many users hesitate to upgrade is the fear of losing their data. But that is less of an issue now that there are good ways to back up your data and restore it in case of accidents.

When upgrading to Windows 11/10, the installer offers an option to back up your files, which you can still access after the upgrade is complete. Another method is to use a professional tool like Todo PCTrans, which can back up data or both data and apps for a quick restoration later.

In short, you can easily trust this software and upgrade to Windows 11/10 for a better experience. After the upgrade, you can also get back the missed files and programs if the upgrading process left them behind.

Page Content:

Backup Windows 7 PC with Todo PCTrans Tool
How to Install Windows 11/10
Restore Programs and Files to Windows 11/10 PC

#1. Back Up Your Data and Apps Before Upgrading Windows 7

It's crucial to back up everything to a USB or external device when upgrading Windows. This ensures that the files and programs on the backup drive aren't accidentally deleted. Sometimes, users might delete the backup drive or even install Windows on it. Therefore, make sure to disconnect the drive before proceeding with the upgrade.

With the help of the Todo PCTrans Pro tool, you can leverage its backup and restore feature to back up your files, programs, and user accounts before upgrading to Windows 11/10 and restore them later. Here's how to create a backup:

Step 1: Connect the USB (flash) drive/external hard drive to the source computer.

Launch Todo PCTrans, and click "Backup & Restore" > "Start" on the main interface.

Transfer files via Backup and Restore – Step 1 Transfer files via Backup and Restore – Step 1

Step 2. Select “Data Backup” and click “Next.” Tap “Confirm” to proceed.

Transferring files through Backup and Restore - Step 2

Step 3: Select the specific data, apps, etc. that you want to back up from the Apps, User Accounts, and Files columns.

Transfer files via Backup and Restore - Step 3 Transfer files via Backup and Restore - Step 3

#2. How to Install Windows 11/10 on Windows 7

With your files backed up, you're ready to upgrade to Windows 11/10. You'll need enough free space on your main drive, or system drive.

Step 1: Download the “Windows Upgrade Assistant” from Microsoft's official website and run it.

The installer will first check for compatibility, and then proceed to the next screen. If any of your apps might not work, you can choose to update or uninstall them at this point. Since you made a backup, you can reinstall these later.

Step 2: When offered a choice between "Upgrading" and "Clean Install" during the process, make sure you select the former.

You may also choose to back up your personal files. This is a good idea for a double backup. The second option would be useful if you want a clean install, but make sure you have your Windows 7 key available to activate it later by contacting Microsoft support.

Step 3: Finally, begin the installation process.

Your computer might restart several times during this process. When it's done, you can log in with the same account as before.

For more detailed information, you can refer to these two links: Upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10 and Upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 11.

After the installation, you might need to connect to a Microsoft account at some point in the future. Note that there have been many changes from Windows 7 to Windows 11/10, and you should be aware of them.

#3. Restore Programs and Files to Windows 11/10 PC

Now that your Windows 7 PC has been upgraded to Windows 11/10, it's time to restore your programs and files to where they were before the upgrade. If Todo PCTrans is no longer on your computer after the upgrade, download and install it again.

Step 1. Insert the USB drive with the backup file into the target computer.

Make sure the target PC has Todo PCTrans installed. Launch PCTransImage, and then double-click the backup file with the .PCT extension to start the recovery process. If not, install it first by running PCTrans_setup.exe.

Transfer files via Backup and Restore – Step 1 Transfer files via Backup and Restore – Step 1

Step 2: Next, go to the Apps, Files, or Accounts tab and choose the backup of the app, file, or computer setting that you want to restore. Then, click Restore.

Transfer files from the image - Step 2 Transfer files from the image - Step 2

Step 3: Wait for some time, and then click “OK” to finish the recovery process.

Transfer files via image - Step 3 Transfer files via image - Step 3

Finally, make sure all your software is installed and your files are backed up where you expect. You'll also find some new apps that came with the Windows 11/10 upgrade.

Conclusions

Upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 11/10 is straightforward, and while the Windows upgrade process will handle backups to an extent, it's best to use professional software, such as Todo PCTrans, to back up your apps, files, and accounts. Once the upgrade is complete, you can use the same backup file to restore them to their original locations.

If you have any questions about the software or the upgrade process, contact the Tools Support team at support@tools.com.