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More importantly, Microsoft isn’t guaranteeing that PCs with unofficial Windows 11 installations will receive important features and security updates, although at this point it’s not clear if that’s just to deter people from trying to install Windows 11 on incompatible PCs. If you don’t know what an ISO or virtual machine is, you really shouldn’t go this route. You should really only try this if you know what you’re doing. Likewise, Microsoft provides the option to download the ISO file yourself, which can also be handy if you want to run Windows 11 with a virtual machine. This will tool will allow you to create a bootable USB drive or DVD with which you can perform a clean install of Windows 11. You can head over to the same Windows 11 download page noted above but instead, download the Windows 11 Installation Media Creation Tool. Still, Microsoft provides the option, albeit unofficially. What if you built a superpowered PC several years ago and really want to run Windows 11 even though it’s not officially compatible? You might be able to circumvent Windows 11’s protection, but we wouldn’t recommend that, especially on your primary PC. Force the update with a clean install (not recommended) Still, it’s an official option, so you shouldn’t be in too much danger. Be warned that if you skip the line, you might come across unforeseen bugs - so you do so at your own risk. Then simply open the Installation Assistant, follow the on-screen steps, and you should be able to install the OS right away. Simply head on over to Microsoft’s Windows 11 download page and under Windows Installation Assistant, tap on Download Now. This app basically skips the line and lets you download Windows 11 right now, although it will still check to make sure your hardware is compatible. Skip the line with the Windows 11 Installation Assistantįor those with compatible PCs who don’t see the option to update yet, you can speed the process up by using Microsoft’s new Installation Assistant Tool. The company says it expects all eligible devices will see the option to upgrade “by mid-2022.” While I imagine the bulk of those who want to upgrade will see the option well before that, half a year could be a long time to wait. Microsoft is also making this a very gradual rollout. Long story short, Windows 11 has some very specific requirements which mean many older PCs won’t be supported even if they technically have the power to run the OS. The app will let you know if your PC is officially supported, and if not, it’ll tell you why. If the option doesn’t show up, you should install Microsoft’s new and improved PC Health Check app.
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If it is, you should be able to install the OS like any regular Windows 10 update, although you should probably back up your important files just to be extra safe.
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