Microsoft recommends against installing Windows 11 on a device that does not meet the Windows 11 minimum system requirements. On the Windows 11 software download page, select Create tool now and follow the instructions to install Windows 11. When you're ready, you can find it on the Windows 11 software download page. We recommend you wait until your device has been offered the upgrade to Windows 11 before you use the Installation Assistant.

Use the Installation Assistant to upgrade Other ways to install Windows 11 (not recommended) If you’re upgrading from Windows 10, we recommend you wait until you're notified through Windows Update that the upgrade is ready for your device. To check if Windows 11 is ready for your device, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.įor known issues that might affect your device, you can also check the Windows release health hub. For more info, see Installing Windows 11 on devices that don't meet minimum system requirements. We do not recommend installing Windows 11 on a device that doesn't meet requirements. If your device is currently running Windows 10, we recommend you verify the minimum system requirements using the PC Health Check app. Make sure the device you want to install Windows 11 on meets the minimum system requirements. Find Windows 11 specs, features, and computer requirements Before you begin System requirements to experience some Windows 11 features and apps will exceed the Windows 11 minimum system requirements. Some Windows 10 features aren't available in Windows 11. Most people should stick with using the much simpler Upgrade this PC now option, though.Note: To upgrade to Windows 11, devices should meet the Windows 11 minimum system requirements. How To Geek’s article walks you through the process step-by-step. If you want to take a more complicated route, you can also use the “Create installation media” option to clean install Windows 10, inputting the Windows 7 product key you dredged up earlier when you’re asked for your Windows 10 license. After several reboots (and potentially a long wait), you’ll be on Windows 10, which is still being supported for years to come. Click Install and wait for the tool to work its magic. Run it, select the Upgrade this PC now option when prompted- not “Create installation media”-and choose to keep your apps and files. The Media Creation Tool will download to your computer. Next, head to Microsoft’s Windows Media Creation Tool page and click the Upgrade Now button. Whatever method you use, just make sure your data’s backed up somewhere safe. We’ve got guides to the best Windows backup software and online backup options, but even stashing your most valued files on a USB key or external drive works. Upgrading to a new operating system is a major task, and you don’t want to lose your precious photos and files if things go wrong.

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