Alex Ruben
How to Install Windows 11 24H2 on Unsupported PCs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing the latest Windows 11 24H2 update is an excellent way to enhance your PC’s performance, security, and features, even if your hardware doesn’t meet the official system requirements. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the official process of upgrading your unsupported Windows 10 PC to Windows 11 24H2. You’ll learn how to download the necessary ISO file, how to prepare for installation, and how to run the setup while keeping your personal files and settings intact. This method is officially supported by Microsoft, ensuring a smooth transition.
Step 1: Check PC Compatibility
The first step in the installation process is to verify whether your PC can run Windows 11 24H2, even if it’s classified as unsupported. To check compatibility, you can use the PC Health Check tool provided by Microsoft. Download the tool, run it, and evaluate the results. If it shows that your device does not meet certain requirements, don’t worry; you will be able to proceed with the installation anyway.
Step 2: Download the 24H2 ISO File
Next, you need to download the Windows 11 24H2 ISO file. Visit Microsoft’s official website, locate the Windows 11 download section, and select the ISO option. Ensure you choose the correct version (typically labeled as 24H2). Click the download link and save the ISO file to a location that is easy to remember.
Step 3: Choose Language and Prepare the ISO
After downloading the ISO file, you will need to select your preferred language and prepare the ISO file for installation. When prompted during the setup process, choose the language that best suits your needs. This will ensure that your system interface matches your preferences, enhancing your overall experience.
Step 4: Mount or Extract the ISO
To access the installation files, you will need to either mount or extract the ISO file. You can do this by right-clicking on the ISO file and selecting ‘Mount’. This will allow you to access the contents as if it were a physical drive on your PC. If you prefer to extract it using a program like WinRAR or 7-Zip, right-click the ISO and choose the appropriate extract option.
Step 5: Run Setup via CMD
Now it’s time to run the installation setup. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for ‘cmd’ in the Start menu, right-clicking on it, and selecting ‘Run as administrator’. Within the Command Prompt, navigate to the directory where the ISO files are located. Use the command cd path_to_your_iso to change the directory. Next, run the setup by typing setup.exe. This will launch the Windows installation process.
Step 6: Fix the “Keep Files and Apps” Greyed-Out Issue
During installation, you might encounter the issue where the option to ‘Keep personal files and apps’ is greyed out. To resolve this, make sure you are not running the setup from an incompatible drive or that the installation source is correctly mounted. Additionally, run the Command Prompt as an administrator and ensure that your existing Windows version is activated. This will allow you to keep your files and settings intact during the upgrade.
Step 7: Find Default System Language Using CMD
If you need to ensure that the system language is set correctly, you can use Command Prompt for this. Execute the command powershell -command "Get-WinSystemLocale" to check the current system language. Adjust your installation settings accordingly if needed.
Step 8: Completing the Installation
Once you have resolved any issues, continue with the installation process. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup. This may take some time, and your computer will reboot several times. Make sure to allow the process to finish without interruption.
Step 9: First Look at New Windows 11
When the installation completes, take a moment to explore the new features and interface offered by Windows 11 24H2. You’ll notice performance enhancements, improved security features, and a refreshed user interface aimed at improving your productivity.
Step 10: Check Activation and Security Updates
Finally, it’s advisable to check if Windows 11 is activated properly. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation. Additionally, check for the latest security updates by navigating to Windows Update in the same menu. Keeping your system updated ensures you receive critical patches, optimizing your system’s security and stability.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
In case you encounter issues such as a greyed-out option to keep personal files and apps, ensure you are using compatible media for installation. Regular updates and checks on system activations also help prevent common installation roadblocks.
This tutorial effectively guides you through installing Windows 11 24H2 even on unsupported PCs. By following these steps, you’ll enjoy the latest features and enhancements while keeping your data safe. For additional resources and assistance, check out the other guides provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my PC fails to install Windows 11 24H2?
If the installation fails, double-check the compatibility of your hardware and ensure that you have correctly followed the steps for preparing the ISO and running the setup. Revisit the command prompt settings and make sure to address any errors indicated during the process.
How can I revert back to Windows 10 if I am not satisfied?
You can revert to Windows 10 within ten days of upgrading. Head to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and follow the prompts for going back to the previous version. If you want to extend this period, additional methods are available that guide you through the process.
Will I lose my files and apps during the installation?
Using the official Windows 11 installation method allows you to keep your personal files and even apps, provided the appropriate settings are selected during installation. However, always ensure to back up important data as a precaution.