The Windows 11 beta is finally out — here’s how to install it
The first Windows 11 preview build Microsoft has deemed stable enough
Story byNapier Lopez
Napier Lopez is a writer based in New York City. He’s interested in all things tech, science, and photography related, and likes to yo-yo in(show all)Napier Lopez is a writer based in New York City. He’s interested in all things tech, science, and photography related, and likes to yo-yo in his free time. Follow himon Twitter.
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If you’re already on Windows 11’s Dev Channel, you should probably switch to the Beta Channel
Okay, let’s be honest here. As much as Microsoft (and we) warned you to not install the Windows 11 Dev builds onto your primary PC, a lot of you probably went ahead and did so anyway didn’t you? I can’t blame you, I did the same.
If this applies to you and you’re not someone who’s ‘highly technical,’ — say you’ve only installed Windows 11 to try out cool new stuff — then now’s a good chance to move down to the Beta Channel. Microsoft is unlikely to introduce major new features for a while, so the Beta channel will be better for day-to-day use.
Luckily, I haven’t had any system-obliterating bugs (plus everything important is backed up), only some occasional annoyances. The most recent Dev build, 22000.1000, is the most stable one so far, and indeed, this is the one Microsoft is now pushing into the Beta Channel.
How do I install the Windows 11 beta?
Easy peasy — if you have acompatible device. Not every device that can run Windows 10, including some of Microsoft’s own Surface devices, will be able to run Windows 11. Please note that although Microsoft has allowed people to try the Windows 11 previews on technically incompatible devices during this testing period, you will not be able to update to the final release version of the OS.
Read thesystem requirements, specifically the need for Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. This is a security device in modern processors, and it is necessary for Windows 11. You can find out if you’ve got this doodad by opening Device Manager and finding TPM 2.0 under ‘Security Devices.’ If you don’t know what the Device Manager is… well, you probably shouldn’t be installing the Windows 11 beta.
That out of the way, installing the OS is as simple as joining the Windows Insider Program and selecting the appropriate channel.
