If you own a Dell laptop and thinking of upgrading to Windows 10 (it is free to do so), here are few things you need to do before upgrading.

Check your Dell laptop compatibility

Not all Dell laptops are compatible with Windows 10. Hence, the first thing you need to do is check whether your Dell laptop is compatible with Windows 10. Dell has released a list of devices that are compatible with Windows 10. In order to determine whether your laptop model is on the list, follow the steps given below.

1. Click on the link – Dell Tested systems page
2. Enter the Service Tag that is located at the bottom of your device
3. Click on Submit
4. Just above the listed drivers, you will see a notice that tells whether your system has been tested for Windows 10
5. If you get a message which says “Product not tested for Windows 10 upgrade”, you should refrain from upgrading to Windows 10

Back up your files

Though upgrading to Windows 10 is usually a smooth and straightforward process, you should always backup all critical files before carrying out any upgrade.

Create recovery discs

You have the option to rollback within 30 days to an earlier version of Windows after upgrading to Windows 10. Without creating recovery discs, you will not be able to do so. You can use the Dell Backup and Recovery software to create recovery discs. We would recommend you create a factory restore media. You can use DVD discs, external hard drive or USB flash drive for the purpose. Below are the steps you should follow:

1. Search for Dell Backup in Apps
2. Open the Dell Backup and Recovery app
3. Select Factory Recovery media
4. Connect the external USB device of your choice and click on it when detected
5. When the drive is selected, click on Continue
6. You will see a warning which mentions the operation will take time and cannot be cancelled. Click Yes to continue
7. You will see a message with licensing agreement. Click Agree and continue
8. The application starts to create recovery discs. Click OK when the process is completed

Upgrading to Windows 10

1. Go to the Windows update screen
2. Check for upgrade link
3. If you have registered for the free upgrade, you will see Windows 10 upgrade as an option
4. Click on Get Started
5. Click Yes when you see the pop-up window with the Microsoft software license terms
6. In the next window, click start the upgrade now

After the upgrade process starts, the laptop will immediately restart. From that point you need to just wait until the update process is completed