- Microsoft officially unveiled Windows 11 last night
- The operating system will be available to users towards the end of the year
- But you can get it a bit earlier by signing up for the Windows Insider program
We’ve known about Windows 11 for a while, thanks to a leaked build of the operating system that somehow found its way online. Microsoft officially unveiled the software yesterday, bringing forth many QoL improvements such as better multi-monitor layouts, the ability to snap windows together, and Auto HDR for games. However, it’ll be a while before the next big OS will be available for download for most users since the official Windows 11 rollout is scheduled for 2021-end. But if you are eager to get your hands on the build, you can skip ahead of the queue by joining the Windows Insider Program.
How to download Windows 11 from Microsoft Windows Insider Program
To ensure that your PC can actually run Windows 11, you can check the minimum system requirements for the next-gen OS by downloading the PC Health Checker app from Microsoft’s website. Once you’ve signed up for the program, perform the following steps on your PC.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Insider Program on your Windows 10 device.
- Select the Get Started button and link your Microsoft Account.
- Select the Release Preview Channel from the list of options
- Restart your PC.
- Navigate to Settings > Update & Security and click on Check For Updates.
When Microsoft decides to roll out Windows 11 for insiders, you’ll automatically receive the update. There is no telling when that could happen though, so you may have to wait a while. Do note that the early Windows 11 build could be a tad unstable. We recommend that you do not install it on your daily driver as it could potentially result in loss of data or worse.
Most store-bought laptops should be able to seamlessly transition to Windows 11 without any hiccups. However, DIY desktop computers need some tweaking before they can run the operating system. One of the key requirements to run it involves a TPM 2.0 module, which is not present on most motherboards. However, most boards are TPM 1.2 compatible, and Windows 11 is fine with that. You will have to manually switch it on from the BIOS though. Lastly, Secure Boot also needs to be enabled for Windows 11 to work.
