Microsoft’s Windows 11 Upgrade Comes with a Catch — And It’s All About OneDrive
As Windows 10 nears its end-of-life in October 2025, every user will need to move to Windows 11 — and Microsoft is using that transition as a golden opportunity to push OneDrive subscriptions onto millions of users.
The latest promotional video from Microsoft highlights the new Windows Backup app, which promises a seamless migration to Windows 11. But hidden in the details is a catch that affects nearly everyone: unless you upgrade your OneDrive storage — and start paying for it — you won’t be able to transfer all your files using the tool.
At Goinsta Repairs, we help users across the U.S. make smart, secure upgrades without falling into tech traps. Here’s what Microsoft isn’t saying out loud — and what you can do to avoid getting locked into yet another subscription.
Microsoft’s Backup Tool Only Works If You Use OneDrive
The Windows Backup app is now Microsoft’s default method for helping users migrate from a Windows 10 PC to a new Windows 11 device. It allows you to back up:
• Personal files
• System settings
• Microsoft Store apps
But here’s the fine print:
• Your backup is stored in OneDrive, Microsoft’s cloud storage service
• You get just 5GB for free — not nearly enough for most users
• If you need more space (you probably will), you’re required to subscribe to OneDrive
• Third-party apps (like Chrome, Zoom, or Adobe) won’t be backed up at all
• You cannot choose another cloud provider — it’s OneDrive or nothing
• A Microsoft account is mandatory, even if you’re not interested in cloud storage
Put simply: Microsoft has baked a recurring subscription funnel into a tool that many users will be forced to use in the coming months.
You Don’t Need to Pay for OneDrive to Upgrade Your PC
At Goinsta Repairs, we’re helping our customers make the jump to Windows 11 without paying for cloud storage they didn’t ask for. You have alternatives — here are the best options:
🔄 Use an External Hard Drive or USB Stick
You can manually copy your important files to a physical drive, then move them onto your new PC. It’s free, secure, and doesn’t require an internet connection.
✅ Pro Tip: Always keep at least two copies during any file transfer — just in case one fails.
☁️ Already Use Google Drive or Dropbox? Stick With That
If you’re paying for Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud, you can upload your files there manually instead of using OneDrive. It takes a bit more effort, but gives you control over your data.
🌐 Upcoming Feature: Local PC-to-PC Transfer
Microsoft is developing a PC-to-PC migration option for the Windows Backup app, which will let you transfer files via your local Wi-Fi network — no cloud storage needed. Unfortunately, it’s not available yet, and Microsoft conveniently didn’t mention it in the promotional video.
Why Microsoft Wants You Locked Into OneDrive
Let’s be honest: this isn’t about convenience — it’s about revenue. By offering just 5GB of free space (when most users have 100GB+ of data), Microsoft is nudging you toward their paid OneDrive plans — whether you actually want cloud storage or not.
This forced integration is especially frustrating because:
• There’s no option to use other backup services
• There’s no built-in workaround for large file sets
• It’s happening as part of a mandatory OS upgrade, not by choice
Don’t Get Caught in Microsoft’s Subscription Funnel
At Goinsta Repairs, we believe in giving users choice and transparency. If you’re preparing to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, we can help you:
• Back up and transfer your files without OneDrive
• Safely reinstall third-party apps
• Avoid losing data or settings during the transition
• Skip unnecessary Microsoft subscriptions
Make Your Move to Windows 11 the Right Way
Our certified technicians offer remote and on-site PC upgrade services across the U.S. Whether you’re a home user or managing a small business, we’ll ensure your upgrade is smooth, complete, and free of cloud storage upsells.
📞 Contact Go Insta Repairs today for expert help with your Windows 11 upgrade.
🔗 Helpful Resources:
• TechRadar: Microsoft’s Pushing OneDrive With Windows 11 Upgrade