Installing Windows 11 on a new PC can seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward. The process involves creating a bootable USB drive with the Windows 11 installation media, booting from the USB drive, and following the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Once you’ve gone through these steps, you’ll have a fresh Windows 11 operating system ready to go on your new PC.
Step by Step Tutorial to Install Windows 11 on New PC
Before you start installing Windows 11, you’ll need a USB drive with at least 8GB of storage and a licensed copy of Windows 11. These steps will guide you through the process of creating a bootable USB drive, setting up your PC’s BIOS, and installing Windows 11.
Step 1: Download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool
Download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool from the official Microsoft website.
The Media Creation Tool is a handy program provided by Microsoft that helps you create the installation media needed for Windows 11. Make sure to download the latest version to avoid any issues during installation.
Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive
Use the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive with the Windows 11 installation files.
After opening the Media Creation Tool, accept the terms of service, and select ‘Create installation media for another PC.’ Choose the appropriate language, edition, and architecture for Windows 11. Then select ‘USB flash drive’ and follow the prompts to complete the process.
Step 3: Change Your PC’s Boot Order
Access your PC’s BIOS or UEFI settings and change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive.
To enter the BIOS or UEFI settings, you usually need to press a specific key (like F2, F12, DEL, or ESC) right after turning on your PC. Look for a message on the screen that tells you which key to press. Once inside the settings, navigate to the boot order options and place the USB drive at the top of the list.
Step 4: Boot from the USB Drive
With the USB drive inserted, restart your PC and it should boot from the USB drive into the Windows 11 installer.
If your PC doesn’t automatically boot from the USB drive, you might need to select the drive manually. Just after restarting, look for a prompt that says ‘Press any key to boot from external device’ and press a key to continue.
Step 5: Install Windows 11
Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 11 on your new PC.
The Windows 11 installer will ask you to select your language, time and currency format, and keyboard or input method. Then, click ‘Install now,’ enter your product key, and accept the license terms. Choose ‘Custom: Install Windows only (advanced),’ select the drive where you want to install Windows, and click ‘Next.’ The installation will begin.
After completing the installation process, your PC will restart and boot into Windows 11. You’ll be greeted by a setup screen where you can customize your settings, create or sign in to a Microsoft account, and personalize your experience.
Tips for Installing Windows 11 on New PC
- Make sure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11 before attempting to install.
- Back up any important data from your new PC before starting the installation process.
- Keep your PC plugged into a power source throughout the installation to prevent any interruptions.
- If you encounter any errors, try recreating the bootable USB drive or downloading the Windows 11 installation files again.
- After installation, check for updates in the ‘Settings’ app to ensure your system is up to date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install Windows 11 without a USB drive?
Yes, you can also install Windows 11 using a DVD or ISO file if your PC has a DVD drive or supports virtual drive mounting.
Do I need a product key to install Windows 11?
A product key is required to activate Windows 11, but you can still install it without a key. You’ll need to enter a key later to fully use Windows 11 without limitations.
How long does it take to install Windows 11?
The installation time can vary, but it typically takes between 15 minutes to an hour, depending on your PC’s hardware and the installation media’s speed.
Can I upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 instead of a clean install?
Yes, if you’re running a compatible version of Windows 10, you can upgrade to Windows 11 without losing your files or settings. However, a clean install is recommended for new PCs.
What should I do if the installation fails?
If the installation fails, try restarting the process, checking for errors on the USB drive, or consulting Microsoft’s support resources for troubleshooting tips.
Summary
- Download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool.
- Create a bootable USB drive.
- Change your PC’s boot order.
- Boot from the USB drive.
- Install Windows 11.
Conclusion
Installing Windows 11 on a new PC is a process that can be accomplished in just a few steps. By creating a bootable USB drive, adjusting your BIOS settings, and following the on-screen prompts, you can have a fresh installation of Windows 11 up and running in no time. Remember to back up any important data and ensure your PC meets the necessary requirements before you start. If you hit a snag, there are plenty of resources available to help you troubleshoot. With your new operating system installed, you’re ready to dive into all the features and improvements that Windows 11 has to offer. Happy computing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.