Windows 11 is now rolling out as a free upgrade for Windows 10 users. That means you should be able to download and use Windows 11 right now - as long as your PC meets theminimum system requirements. The quickest way to get the latest version ofWindowsfrom Microsoft is to download the operating system update over the air for free, or you’re able to go the more expensive route and buy a new Windows PC orlaptop.
Here, then, is everything you need to know about how to get Windows 11 for free.
What’s new in Windows 11?
Pocket-lint has adetailed guidethat explains all the new features in Windows 11. Microsoft has also published the “Introduction to Windows 11” video above.
How to get Windows 11 for free
Windows 11 is gradually rolling out. All existing and eligible PCs should be offered the upgrade by mid-2022. If you have a new PC that just shipped with Windows 10 or a device that’s allowed to upgrade to Windows 11, follow these steps:
If you don’t see the free Windows 11 upgrade, and your PC is supported, you may be able to directly download it. Go to the Windows 11download pageand select the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. It’s the easiest method; just click “Download Now” and follow the on-screen instruction.
Alternatively, you’re able to create a bootable USB or DVD (by selecting “Create Windows 11 Installation Media") or you can download a disk image (ISO).
Is your PC compatible with Windows 11?
Microsoft has upgraded its PC Health Check tool (download link) to check whether you’re able to upgrade your PC to Windows 11.
We’ve talked about the Windows 11 system requirements elsewhere - but, this time, Microsoft said you can only install it on processors made from roughly 2016 to 2017 onward. More specifically, Windows 11 requires Intel 8th Gen Coffee Lake or Zen 2 CPUs and up, TPM 2.0, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage.
Was there a Windows 11 beta?
In a word, yes. An early Windows 11 version was made available to members of theWindows Insider program. Anyone is able to become a Windows Insider, aka a tester, but you should only install early versions of Windows on a system that you don’t rely on every day. Early software can contains bugs and break things.
