Monday, September 22, 2025

Windows 10 to Windows 11 Transfer Action Plan

 

Windows 10 to Windows 11 Transfer & Ubuntu Conversion Plan

Why This Migration is Critical

The Challenge: Microsoft will stop providing security updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, unpatched systems become vulnerable to new threats and lose software compatibility. Historical examples (Windows XP in 2014, Windows 7 in 2020) show that unsupported systems quickly become targets for malware like WannaCry ransomware.

The Hardware Problem: Many older laptops cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to strict requirements including TPM 2.0 security chips and 8th generation Intel processors or newer.

Impact on All Users:

  • Standard Users: Face security vulnerabilities, software incompatibility, and potential compliance issues
  • High-Security/Air-Gapped Environments: Still need supported systems for compliance, offline software compatibility, and protection against insider threats and removable media attacks
  • Organizations: Must choose between expensive Extended Security Updates ($30-200+ annually per device), forced hardware upgrades, or migration to alternative platforms

This Plan's Solution: Your laptop lacks TPM 2.0 but bypass methods exist for Windows 11 installation. This plan offers three paths: keep Windows 10 and convert to Ubuntu (recommended), bypass to Windows 11 then convert to Ubuntu, or bypass to keep both systems on Windows 11—maximizing flexibility while ensuring long-term security.

Plan Overview

This systematic approach transfers your data and applications from Windows 10 to Windows 11, then converts your old laptop to Ubuntu Linux. The process spans seven phases over 2-3 weeks, prioritizing data safety through built-in redundancy and verification steps.

Applications Being Transferred:

  • RoboForm password manager
  • Microsoft Office (standalone license)
  • Firefox browser with complete settings
  • Thunderbird email client with accounts

Key Benefits:

  • Zero data loss through systematic backup and verification
  • Works regardless of old laptop's Windows 11 compatibility
  • Avoids McAfee bloatware while leveraging Windows Defender
  • Transforms old hardware into secure Ubuntu system
  • Maintains functional backup computer throughout transition

Timeline:

  • Days 1-2: Compatibility check, path selection, preparation, and data backup
  • Day 1A (Optional): Windows 11 bypass if Path B or C chosen
  • Days 2-3: Transfer execution and new computer setup
  • Day 3-4: Testing and verification
  • Weeks 2-3: Ubuntu conversion (Paths A & B only)

Phase 1: Pre-Transfer Setup (Day 1)

✅ Prepare Old Computer - Choose Your Path

✓ Compatibility Status: Laptop lacks TPM 2.0 but can bypass Windows 11 requirements

Choose one of three paths:

Path A: Original Plan (Recommended)

  • Keep on Windows 10 during transfer (perfectly safe)
  • Convert to Ubuntu later (excellent performance, 5+ years support)
  • Advantage: Ubuntu optimized for older hardware, completely free

Path B: Bypass to Windows 11 First

  • Use TPM bypass method to upgrade to Windows 11
  • Transfer data between two Windows 11 systems
  • Convert to Ubuntu later (or keep Windows 11)
  • Advantage: Latest Windows experience during transfer

Path C: Keep Both on Windows 11

  • Bypass upgrade old laptop to Windows 11
  • Skip Ubuntu conversion entirely
  • Risk: Reduced security without TPM, potential update issues

All Paths Continue With:

  • Run Windows Update to ensure system is current
  • Clean up unnecessary files (Disk Cleanup tool)
  • Create safety backup of critical files to external drive/cloud
  • Gather software installation media and license keys

✅ Find Microsoft Office Product Key

✅ Security Decision

  • DECLINE McAfee installation during Dell setup
  • If McAfee already installed: Uninstall immediately
  • Verify Windows Defender is enabled on new computer
  • Run Windows Update on new computer

Phase 1A: Optional Windows 11 Bypass (If Path B or C Chosen)

✅ Windows 11 TPM Bypass Methods

Method 1: Registry Bypass During Clean Install

  • Download Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11
  • Create bootable USB using Rufus: https://rufus.ie/
  • Boot from Windows 11 installation USB
  • Press Shift + F10 to open Command Prompt
  • Type regedit and press Enter
  • Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup
  • Right-click Setup → New → Key → Name it LabConfig
  • Inside LabConfig, create these DWORD (32-bit) values, set each to 1:
    • BypassTPMCheck
    • BypassSecureBootCheck
    • BypassRAMCheck
  • Close Registry Editor and continue installation

Method 2: Upgrade from Windows 10 (Easier)

  • Open Registry Editor in Windows 10 (Run as Administrator)
  • Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetup
  • Right-click → New → DWORD (32-bit) Value
  • Name: AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU
  • Double-click and set Value to: 1
  • Download Windows 11 ISO, mount it, run setup.exe
  • Upgrade should proceed without TPM requirement

✅ Post-Bypass Verification

  • Verify Windows 11 installation completed successfully
  • Check Windows Update for latest patches
  • Test all hardware functions (WiFi, audio, etc.)
  • Important: Note that some security features may be unavailable

Phase 2: Application Data Backup (Day 1-2)

✅ RoboForm Backup

  • Open RoboForm → Tools → Options → Backup
  • Create backup file (.rfb)
  • Save to external drive and cloud storage
  • Test backup file integrity

✅ Firefox Profile Backup

  • Firefox Menu → Help → More Troubleshooting Information
  • Click "Open Folder" next to Profile Folder
  • Copy entire profile folder to external drive
  • Note folder name for restoration

✅ Thunderbird Profile Backup

  • Help → More Troubleshooting Information → Show in Folder
  • Copy entire Thunderbird profile folder to external drive
  • Export address book as additional backup
  • Note account settings (server names, ports, etc.)

✅ Additional Backups

  • Export bookmarks from other browsers
  • Copy custom templates from %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Templates\
  • Backup any custom dictionaries or autocorrect entries
  • List installed programs for reference

Phase 3: File Transfer (Day 2)

✅ Transfer Personal Files

Primary folders to copy:

  • Desktop
  • Documents
  • Pictures
  • Music
  • Videos
  • Downloads (selective)

Hidden/System folders:

  • %APPDATA% (application settings)
  • Browser bookmarks and settings
  • Email signatures and templates

✅ Transfer Method Selection

Choose one:

  • USB 3.0 external drive (recommended for speed)
  • Network transfer via shared folder
  • Cloud storage sync
  • Direct cable transfer

Phase 4: New Computer Setup (Day 2-3)

✅ Install Core Applications

  • Install Firefox browser
  • Install Thunderbird email client
  • Install RoboForm password manager
  • Install Microsoft Office using product key

✅ Microsoft Office Installation

  • Use original media or download from office.com: https://office.com
  • Enter saved product key during installation
  • Choose standalone installation (not subscription)
  • Verify activation: File → Account → Product Activated
  • Test all Office applications

✅ Restore Application Data

  • RoboForm: Tools → Options → Restore → Select backup file
  • Firefox: Replace profile folder in %APPDATA%\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\
  • Thunderbird: Replace profile folder in %APPDATA%\Thunderbird\Profiles\
  • Restart each application after restoration

Phase 5: Configuration & Testing (Day 3)

✅ System Configuration

  • Set up printers and peripherals
  • Configure Windows settings to match preferences
  • Install Windows Updates
  • Set up backup solution for new computer

✅ Security Setup

  • Confirm Windows Defender is active and updated
  • Configure firewall settings
  • Install uBlock Origin browser extension
  • Consider Malwarebytes free for occasional scans

✅ Verification Testing

  • Test RoboForm password filling
  • Verify Firefox bookmarks and extensions work
  • Send/receive test emails in Thunderbird
  • Open and edit documents in all Office applications
  • Check that all personal files transferred correctly
  • Test printer and other peripherals

Phase 6: Final Steps (Day 3-4)

✅ Additional Software

  • Install other needed programs from original sources
  • Restore any specialized software settings
  • Set up cloud storage sync (OneDrive, Google Drive, etc.)
  • Configure automatic backups

✅ Old Computer Management

  • DO NOT wipe old computer yet
  • Keep functional for 1-2 weeks as backup
  • Deactivate Office license from old computer
  • After confirming everything works: Proceed to Ubuntu conversion

✅ Documentation

  • Document any custom settings discovered
  • Save product keys in secure location
  • Create notes for future reference
  • Update any online accounts with new computer info

Phase 7: Ubuntu Linux Conversion (Paths A & B Only)

Skip this phase if you chose Path C (both systems stay Windows 11)

✅ Pre-Conversion Decision

  • Path A users: Confirmed Windows 10 → Ubuntu conversion
  • Path B users: Choose to convert Windows 11 → Ubuntu or keep Windows 11
  • Create final backup of any remaining files from old laptop
  • If keeping Windows 11: Skip to final cleanup steps

✅ Ubuntu Preparation

✅ Hardware Compatibility Check

  • Test WiFi chip compatibility (may need additional drivers)
  • Check graphics card support (Intel/AMD usually fine, NVIDIA may need drivers)
  • Verify Bluetooth functionality requirements
  • Check printer compatibility if planning to use with Linux
  • Note any special function keys or hardware features

✅ Installation Process

  • Boot from Ubuntu USB drive
  • Choose "Try Ubuntu" first to test hardware compatibility
  • Test WiFi, audio, graphics, and other hardware functions
  • If all works well, restart and choose "Install Ubuntu"
  • Select "Erase disk and install Ubuntu" (full replacement)
  • Create user account and set strong password
  • Complete installation and remove USB drive

✅ Post-Installation Setup

  • Run initial system updates: sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
  • Install restricted multimedia codecs if prompted
  • Install additional drivers via "Additional Drivers" app
  • Configure WiFi and network settings
  • Set up printer if needed

✅ Essential Software Installation

Browser:

  • Firefox (pre-installed) or install Chrome/Chromium
  • Install uBlock Origin extension

Office Suite Options:

  • LibreOffice (pre-installed) - free MS Office alternative
  • OnlyOffice (better MS Office compatibility)
  • WPS Office (commercial, closest to MS Office)

Email Client:

  • Thunderbird: sudo apt install thunderbird
  • Or use web-based email clients

Password Manager:

  • RoboForm has Linux version available
  • Alternative: Bitwarden (excellent open-source option)
  • KeePassXC (offline password manager)

Additional Useful Software:

  • VLC media player: sudo apt install vlc
  • GIMP image editor: sudo apt install gimp
  • Timeshift (system backup): sudo apt install timeshift
  • Synaptic Package Manager: sudo apt install synaptic

✅ Data Migration to Ubuntu

  • Transfer any remaining personal files via USB drive
  • Set up cloud storage sync (OneDrive via web, Google Drive, Dropbox)
  • Configure email accounts in Thunderbird
  • Import bookmarks and passwords
  • Test document compatibility with LibreOffice

✅ System Configuration

  • Set up automatic updates or configure update preferences
  • Configure Timeshift for regular system snapshots
  • Customize desktop environment to your preferences
  • Set up firewall: sudo ufw enable
  • Configure power management settings

✅ Learning Resources

Emergency Contacts & Resources

If Problems Arise:

Key Tools Needed:

  • External USB drive (minimum 32GB recommended)
  • ProduKey tool for finding Office key
  • Patience and time (don't rush the process)

⚠️ Important Reminders

  • Test everything before wiping old computer
  • Keep old computer functional until 100% confident
  • Don't install McAfee - Windows Defender is sufficient
  • Save all product keys in secure location
  • Take breaks - rushing leads to mistakes

Estimated Total Time: 6-10 hours over 3-4 days

Ubuntu Conversion Notes

Why Ubuntu 24.04 LTS?

  • Long Term Support (5 years of updates through 2029)
  • Most stable and well-supported version
  • Best hardware compatibility
  • Extensive software repository
  • Perfect for hardware with or without Windows 11 bypass

Path Decision Impact:

  • Path A (Win10→Ubuntu): Clean transition, Ubuntu optimized for older hardware
  • Path B (Win11→Ubuntu): Experience latest Windows first, then get Ubuntu benefits
  • Path C (Both Win11): Keep familiar environment but accept TPM security limitations

Windows 11 Bypass Considerations:

  • Security Trade-offs: Missing TPM 2.0 means reduced security features (BitLocker, Windows Hello disabled)
  • Update Uncertainty: No guarantee that bypassed systems receive all future updates
  • Performance: Windows 11 may run slower than Ubuntu on older hardware

Benefits of Ubuntu Conversion:

  • Completely free operating system with no licensing concerns
  • Enhanced security and privacy (no Windows 10 end-of-support concerns)
  • Excellent performance on older hardware (often faster than Windows 11)
  • Large community support and regular security updates through 2029
  • Extends usable life regardless of Windows 11 compatibility issues

MS Office Alternatives Comparison:

  • LibreOffice: Free, good compatibility, some formatting differences
  • OnlyOffice: Better MS Office compatibility, free version available
  • WPS Office: Commercial, closest to MS Office interface
  • Web versions: Use Office 365 online in browser

Final Recommendation: Even if you can bypass TPM 2.0 requirements, Ubuntu conversion still provides the best long-term value for older hardware—better performance, stronger security, and no licensing headaches.

Sources and References

  1. Microsoft Windows 11 System Requirements. Microsoft Corporation. Accessed September 2025. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-11-specifications
  2. Windows 10 End of Support Information. Microsoft Corporation. Accessed September 2025. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-update-history-24ea91f4-36e7-d8fd-0ddb-d79d9d0cdbda
  3. How to Bypass Windows 11's TPM, CPU and RAM Requirements. Tom's Hardware. July 18, 2022. https://www.tomshardware.com/how-to/bypass-windows-11-tpm-requirement
  4. How to Bypass the Windows 11 TPM 2.0 Requirement. BleepingComputer. July 2, 2021. https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/how-to-bypass-the-windows-11-tpm-20-requirement/
  5. How To Bypass TPM 2.0 Requirements for Windows 11 Using Regedit. Medium. February 8, 2025. https://medium.com/@thatCleverNerd/how-to-bypass-tpm-requirements-for-windows-11-using-regedit-steam-deck-2c55b697a87b
  6. Install Windows 11 Without Secure Boot on an Unsupported Old Laptop. Microsoft Q&A Community. Accessed September 2025. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/2121461/install-windows-11-without-secure-boot-on-an-unsup
  7. Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Desktop Download. Canonical Ltd. Accessed September 2025. https://ubuntu.com/download/desktop
  8. Ubuntu Certified Hardware Database. Canonical Ltd. Accessed September 2025. https://ubuntu.com/certified
  9. ProduKey - Recover Lost Product Key. NirSoft. Accessed September 2025. https://www.nirsoft.net/utils/product_cd_key_viewer.html
  10. Rufus - Create Bootable USB Drives. Pete Batard. Accessed September 2025. https://rufus.ie/
  11. Balena Etcher - Flash OS Images to SD Cards & USB Drives. Balena Inc. Accessed September 2025. https://balena.io/etcher/
  12. Microsoft Office Download and Installation. Microsoft Corporation. Accessed September 2025. https://office.com
  13. Windows Defender Security Intelligence. Microsoft Corporation. Accessed September 2025. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/stay-protected-with-windows-security-2ae0363d-0ada-c064-8b56-6a39afb6a963
  14. Firefox Support Documentation. Mozilla Foundation. Accessed September 2025. https://support.mozilla.org
  15. Thunderbird Support Documentation. Mozilla Foundation. Accessed September 2025. https://support.mozilla.org/products/thunderbird
  16. RoboForm Password Manager Support. Siber Systems Inc. Accessed September 2025. https://roboform.com/support
  17. Ubuntu Documentation and Help. Canonical Ltd. Accessed September 2025. https://help.ubuntu.com
  18. Ubuntu Community Forums. Canonical Ltd. Accessed September 2025. https://discourse.ubuntu.com


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