Microsoft’s new update to Windows is releasing on October 5, 2021. But people who want an early sight of Windows 11 can download and install it from the Windows Insider program.
Before installing the major update on your PC, it is better to check the compatibility of your computer. If your system is not advanced enough then you may feel problems while using Windows 11 on your PC. Here are the requirements for Windows 11 that your PC/Laptop should have.
- Processor- 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC)
- RAM- 4GB
- Storage- 64GB or more
- System Firmware- UEFI, Secure Boot Capable
- TPM- TPM Version 2.0
- Graphics Card- DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver
- Display- HD display that is greater than 9” diagonally, 8 bits per color channel
- Internet- Microsoft account and internet connectivity
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An early build of Windows 11 is now available in the Windows 11 Beta Channel of the Windows Insider Program. The Windows Insider program is divided into three channels:
The Dev Channel
This channel is best for technical users and developers. It is where new features are introduced for initial testing. These builds will have rough edges and some instability that could block key activities or require workarounds.
The Beta Channel
Ideal for early adopters. Insiders and IT Professionals in the Beta Channel can check out upcoming Windows 10 features, while still getting relatively reliable updates that are validated by Microsoft.
The Release Preview Channel
The Release Preview Channel is where Microsoft recommends companies preview and validate upcoming Windows 10 releases before broad deployment within the organization. It’s meant for final testing of an upcoming release and is best for those who want the most stable builds.
How to get the Windows 11 beta: Join the Windows Insider Program
The Windows Insider Program is the only way to get access to this early Windows 11 build. Provided you’ve got an active Microsoft account, signing up is for free and a simple process:
- On your Windows 10 PC, open Settings
- Head to Update & Security and choose ‘Windows Insider Program’ from the left pane
- If you’re not already signed up, click the ‘Get Started’ button
- From the pop-up that appears, click ‘Link an account’
- Choose from an account that’s already signed in, or log in with new details
- On the next screen, choose either the ‘Dev Channel’ or ‘Beta Channel’, although we’d recommend the latter if device stability or bugs are a concern. Windows 11 isn’t available in the ‘Release Preview Channel’ yet
- Hit ‘Confirm’ on this screen and the next, which indicates you agree to the terms and conditions
To complete signup, you’ll need to restart your PC. Choose whether to do that now or later
That’s the hard bit done – now you’ll just need to install the beta like you do for any other update.
How to install the Windows 11 beta: Download the update
Once you’re a member of the Insider Program, installing the Windows 11 beta couldn’t be easier:
- Head to Settings > Update & Security
- From the Windows Update tab, choose ‘Check for updates’
- After a few seconds, an update named ‘Windows 11 Insider Preview’ will automatically begin downloading
- Once it’s finished, you’ll be prompted to restart your PC. Click ‘Restart now’ to do it straight away
That’s it! Once your PC has installed the update, the Windows 11 beta will be ready to use. Don’t worry, all your apps and files will remain intact.