Alex Ruben
Dual Boot Windows 11 24H2 with Windows 10 on Unsupported PCs: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you interested in trying Windows 11 but worried about losing your Windows 10 setup? This detailed tutorial covers how to dual boot Windows 11 24H2 on your PC, even if it doesn’t officially support it. Whether your processor is outdated or you lack TPM 2.0, this method allows you to run both operating systems on the same drive without compromising your existing Windows 10. By following this guide, you will learn about system requirements, how to create a bootable USB, partitioning your drive, and addressing common installation issues. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Checking Processor & Hardware Requirements
Before proceeding, ensure your hardware meets the basic requirements for Windows 11. You will need to check the following:
- Processor: At least 1 GHz, dual-core, 64-bit processor.
- RAM: Minimum of 4 GB.
- Storage: At least 64 GB of available storage.
- TPM: TPM version 2.0 is usually required, but there are ways to bypass this.
Verifying these specifications will help ensure a smoother installation process.
Step 2: Downloading Windows 11 24H2 ISO
The next step is to download the Windows 11 24H2 ISO file. Go to the official Microsoft website or another reliable source. Make sure to select the correct version based on your system (32-bit or 64-bit). Download the ISO file to a location you can easily access.
Step 3: Creating a Bootable USB with Rufus
For this step, you will need to create a bootable USB drive with the Windows 11 ISO file using Rufus. Follow these steps:
- Download Rufus from its official website.
- Insert a USB drive (at least 8 GB).
- Open Rufus and select your USB drive.
- Choose the downloaded Windows 11 ISO file.
- Ensure the partition scheme is set to GPT (if you’re using UEFI) and start the process by clicking Start.
Once the process is completed, your USB drive will be ready to install Windows 11.
Step 4: Partitioning the Drive for Windows 11 Installation
The next task is to create a separate partition on your drive for installing Windows 11. Use EaseUS Partition Master to manage your partitions. Here’s how:
- Open EaseUS Partition Master.
- Select the drive where Windows 10 is installed.
- Resize this partition to create free space for Windows 11 (ensure at least 52 GB is available).
- Apply the changes to create a new unallocated partition for Windows 11.
This step is crucial to avoid losing any existing data on your Windows 10 installation.
Step 5: Converting the Drive from MBR to GPT
If your system uses the MBR partition style, you will need to convert it to GPT for Windows 11. You can do this without losing any data by using EaseUS Partition Master. Here’s how:
- Select the drive in EaseUS Partition Master.
- Choose the option to convert from MBR to GPT.
- Apply the changes.
Remember, this is a critical step as Windows 11 requires GPT formatting. Always back up important data first.
Step 6: Booting from USB and Installing Windows 11
With everything prepared, it’s time to install Windows 11. Reboot your PC and enter the BIOS settings (usually by pressing F2 or Delete during startup). Configure the boot order to boot from your USB drive. Once booted from USB:
- Select Install Now.
- Choose Custom Installation.
- Select the unallocated partition you created for Windows 11 and begin the installation process.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Ensure you select the correct partition to avoid overwriting Windows 10.
Step 7: Fixing Common Installation Errors
During installation, you may encounter various errors. Here are solutions to common issues:
- Error: Partition Size is Too Small: Ensure you have at least 52 GB of free space for Windows 11.
- Error: Windows 11 Requires GPT Partition: Verify that your drive is converted to GPT.
- TPM 2.0 Error: Adjust BIOS settings to enable TPM and secure boot before installation.
Taking these troubleshooting steps can significantly ease your installation experience.
Step 8: Finalizing the Installation
Once installed, you will go through the initial Windows 11 setup process. Configure your settings as desired and complete the setup. After this, your PC will allow you to choose between Windows 10 and Windows 11 during startup.
Step 9: Testing the Dual Boot System
To ensure everything works smoothly, restart your computer and test the dual boot feature. You should see a boot manager screen allowing you to select either Windows 10 or Windows 11. Explore both systems to ensure they are operating correctly.
Step 10: Removing Windows 11 and Restoring Space (Optional)
If you decide Windows 11 isn’t for you, you can remove it easily. Use EaseUS Partition Master to delete the partition used for Windows 11 and extend your existing Windows 10 partition with the freed space.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
To facilitate a smoother process, consider the following tips:
- Ensure all drivers for both OS are up to date.
- Backup your data before starting the process.
- If you experience issues with date and time during installation, make sure your BIOS settings are correct.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I dual boot Windows 11 on any PC?
Yes, as long as you manage the necessary requirements in partitioning and your BIOS settings.
Will I lose my data from Windows 10 during the installation?
No, following this method keeps your Windows 10 files intact, given you allocate a separate partition for Windows 11.
How do I switch back to Windows 10 from Windows 11?
On boot, select Windows 10 from the boot manager. To remove Windows 11, delete its partition via EaseUS Partition Master.