How to Install Windows 11 on a New PC
Installing Windows 11 on a new PC can be a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. Whether you’re upgrading from an older version of Windows or starting fresh with a new machine, this guide will walk you through the entire installation process. From preparing your PC to the final setup, we’ve got you covered.
1. Check System Requirements
Before you begin the installation, it’s crucial to ensure that your new PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. These requirements include:
– Processor: 1 GHz or faster with at least two cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or SoC
– RAM: 4 GB or more
– Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device
– System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
– TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
– Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x
Ensure that your PC meets these criteria to avoid any compatibility issues during the installation process.
2. Create a Bootable USB Drive
To install Windows 11, you’ll need a bootable USB drive. You can use a USB flash drive or an external hard drive with at least 16 GB of storage space. Follow these steps to create a bootable USB drive:
1. Download the Windows 11 ISO file from the Microsoft website.
2. Use a tool like Rufus or Windows Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive from the ISO file.
3. Insert the USB drive into your PC and restart it.
3. Boot from the USB Drive
To boot from the USB drive, you’ll need to change the boot order in your PC’s BIOS or UEFI settings. Here’s how to do it:
1. Restart your PC and press the key to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings (usually F2, F10, or DEL).
2. Navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Order” section.
3. Set the USB drive as the first boot device.
4. Save the changes and exit the BIOS or UEFI settings.
4. Install Windows 11
Once your PC boots from the USB drive, follow these steps to install Windows 11:
1. Press any key to start the installation process.
2. Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences.
3. Click “Install Windows.”
4. Choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” to perform a clean installation.
5. Select the partition where you want to install Windows 11 and click “Next.”
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
5. Finalize the Setup
After the installation is complete, you’ll need to finalize the setup by creating a user account and setting up your preferences. Here’s what to do:
1. Enter your product key (if prompted).
2. Choose your region and keyboard layout.
3. Create a user account and password.
4. Customize your privacy settings and choose your network preferences.
5. Set up Windows updates and other settings.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed Windows 11 on your new PC. Enjoy the latest features and improvements that Windows 11 has to offer.
