To install Windows 11

To install Windows 11, you can either upgrade from Windows 10 using the Installation Assistant or create a bootable USB drive with the Media Creation Tool and perform a clean install. The recommended method is to upgrade using the Installation Assistant if your PC meets the minimum requirements

9/5/20241 min read

Here's a more detailed explanation of the two main methods:

1. Upgrade from Windows 10 using the Installation Assistant:

Check Compatibility: Ensure your device meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11.

Download the Installation Assistant: Go to the Microsoft download page and download the Installation Assistant.

Run the Assistant: Execute the downloaded .exe file and follow the on-screen instructions.

Accept and Install: The assistant will guide you through the upgrade process, including accepting the license terms and installing Windows 11.

Restart: Your PC will restart a few times during the installation process, and you should avoid turning off your PC during this time.

2. Clean Install from a bootable USB drive (using the Media Creation Tool):

Download the Media Creation Tool:

Go to the Microsoft download page and download the Media Creation Tool.

Create a bootable USB drive:

Run the Media Creation Tool and follow the instructions to create a bootable USB drive containing the Windows 11 installation files.

Boot from the USB:

Insert the USB drive into your PC, restart, and enter the boot menu (usually by pressing F12 or Esc during startup) to boot from the USB.

Follow the Setup:

The Windows Setup screen will appear. Select your language, time zone, and keyboard preferences, then follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Additional Tips:

Back up your data:

Before upgrading or installing, create a backup of your important files and data.

Consider the Windows Insider Program:

If you're an early adopter, you can join the Windows Insider Program to get access to Windows 11 builds before they are officially released.

Choose an appropriate install type:

When clean installing, you can choose between "Upgrade" (which keeps your files and apps) or "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)" (which performs a fresh install, removing all files and apps).