Transferring files from Windows 10 to Windows 11 and using 365

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Transferring files from Windows 10 to Windows 11 and using 365

Elizabeth Comma-Watson 20

I normally would use Microsoft 11 that has word, excel, ect, but now that i am using 365, I do not know how to transfer all of my files from Microsoft 10 to 11, and I really need to know how. I have ADHD, so I learn differently.

Elizabeth Comma-Watson 20 Reputation points

2026-02-06T01:22:23.1+00:00

Currently, we have Microsoft Family 365, but I do not know how to use it. In October when we had to change from windows 10 to 11, I do not know if I updated all my files correctly. How can you all help me. I have adult ADHD and this is too confusing

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Elizabeth Comma-Watson 20 Reputation points

2026-02-06T01:22:23.1+00:00

Currently, we have Microsoft Family 365, but I do not know how to use it. In October when we had to change from windows 10 to 11, I do not know if I updated all my files correctly. How can you all help me. I have adult ADHD and this is too confusing

Answer 1

John Jefferson Doyon 61,635 Independent Advisor

Hi, I'm John! I will help you with this.

Let me first reassure you: moving from Windows 10 to Windows 11 does not usually delete your personal files, especially if the upgrade was done normally. Most of the time, documents, pictures, and files stay in the same folders.

To help narrow down the issue:

Are you using the same computer that was upgraded from Windows 10 to Windows 11, or did you get a new one?
Do you see your files now in folders like Documents, Pictures, Desktop, or Downloads?
Are you signed in to Microsoft 365 using your family account email?

Here are some simple steps to check your files:

Step 1: Check your computer folders > Open File Explorer. > Open Documents, Pictures, Desktop, and Downloads. > Look for your files.
Step 2: Check OneDrive (online backup) > Go to https://onedrive.live.com > Sign in to your Microsoft account. > See if your files are there.
Step 3: Open files in Word or Excel > Open Word or Excel. > Click File > Open > Browse. > Choose the folder with your files.

I understand how confusing this can feel, especially with so many changes. You’re not alone, and it’s okay to take this one step at a time.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please let me know.

Click "Add comment" to let me know.

Regards,

John J.D.

Elizabeth Comma-Watson 20 Reputation points

2026-02-06T02:09:31.9233333+00:00
Are you using the same computer that was upgraded from Windows 10 to Windows 11, or did you get a new one? To answer your question, I am using the same laptop, but my husband has a new laptop with Windows 11 on it.

Do you see your files now in folders like Documents, Pictures, Desktop, or Downloads? Yes, I see my files now in the folder like documents, pictures, desktop and downloads.

Are you signed in to Microsoft 365 using your family account email? Yes, I am signed in to Microsoft 365 using my own account email. My husband has his own email, but we do have a Microsoft 365 family account. Does that make a difference?
John Jefferson Doyon 61,635 Reputation points Independent Advisor

2026-02-06T02:22:07.38+00:00
Thank you for letting me know.

SInce you are using the same laptop and you can see your files in Documents, Pictures, Desktop, and Downloads, that means your files were transferred correctly. Nothing important is missing, and your upgrade to Windows 11 went well.

So right now, your files are safe on your computer.

About Microsoft 365 Family:

Yes, having separate emails is normal and does not cause a problem.

Here is how it works in simple terms:

One Microsoft 365 Family subscription can be shared with family members.

Each person uses their own email and password.

Each person gets their own private OneDrive storage.

Your files stay private unless you choose to share them.

So even though you and your husband are on the same family plan, your files are separate and secure.

Should you need further information, please let me know.
Elizabeth Comma-Watson 20 Reputation points

2026-02-06T03:27:41.7333333+00:00

Thank you JJD. I really appreciate your help.

Now I have to learn about one drive storage.

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Transferring files from Windows 10 to Windows 11 and using 365

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