How to Install Windows 11

 

 

Introduction Windows 11 introduces a fresh and modern look to Microsoft’s operating system with new features, enhanced performance, and improved security. If you’re ready to upgrade or install Windows 11 on your laptop or PC, follow this guide to ensure a smooth installation process.

Before You Start

1. Check System Requirements:
   • Processor: 1 GHz or faster with at least 2 cores on a compatible 64-bit processor.
   • RAM: 4 GB or more.
   • Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device.
   • System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
   • TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
   • Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x.
   • Display: HD display that is greater than 9” diagonally, with 8 bits per color channel.
2. Backup Your Data:
   • Before starting the installation, back up important files to an external drive or cloud storage to prevent data loss.
3. Check for Updates:
   • Ensure that your current version of Windows is up to date to avoid any conflicts during the installation.

Installation Methods

1. Upgrading from Windows 10

1. Check for Updates:
   • Open Settings (Windows Key + I), go to Update & Security, and select Windows Update. Click Check for updates.
2. Get Windows 11:
   • If your PC is eligible for the upgrade, you’ll see an option to download and install Windows 11. Click Download and install.
3. Follow the Prompts:
   • Windows will download the update and guide you through the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade.
4. Restart Your PC:
   • After installation, restart your PC to finish the setup. You might need to configure some settings and reinstall apps.

2. Fresh Installation Using a USB Drive

1. Download Windows 11 Installation Media:
   • Visit the Microsoft Windows 11 download page and select Download now under the “Create Windows 11 Installation Media” section.
2. Create a Bootable USB Drive:
   • Run the Media Creation Tool and follow the prompts to create a bootable USB drive with Windows 11. You’ll need a USB drive with at least 8 GB of free space.
3. Boot from the USB Drive:
   • Insert the bootable USB drive into your PC and restart it. You may need to change the boot order in your BIOS/UEFI settings to boot from the USB drive.
4. Start Windows 11 Setup:
   • Once booted from the USB, you’ll see the Windows Setup screen. Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click Next.
5. Install Windows 11:
   • Click Install now. Enter your product key if prompted, or select “I don’t have a product key” if you’re upgrading from a licensed version of Windows 10.
6. Choose Installation Type:
   • Choose between Upgrade (to keep files and apps) or Custom (for a fresh installation). Select Custom for a clean install and choose the partition where you want to install Windows 11.
7. Complete the Installation:
   • Follow the prompts to finish the installation. Windows 11 will restart several times during the process.
8. Set Up Windows 11:
   • After installation, configure your settings, such as your Microsoft account, privacy settings, and preferences.