Upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 on Unsupported PCs: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re looking to upgrade your unsupported PC to the latest Windows 11 24H2 build, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will take you through the necessary steps to successfully upgrade your system, even if it doesn’t meet the standard requirements for Windows 11. By following this tutorial, you will gain access to the latest features and security updates of Windows 11, enhancing your computing experience.
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
- A PC running Windows 10 or an older version of Windows 11.
- Backup of all important data, as the upgrade process could potentially lead to data loss.
- The latest Windows 11 24H2 ISO file, which can be downloaded from the official Microsoft website.
Step 1: Download the Windows 11 24H2 ISO
To start, you need to download the latest Windows 11 ISO file. Visit the Microsoft Software Download Page, select the appropriate version for your PC, and download the ISO file. Ensure to save it in an easily accessible location.
Step 2: Mount the ISO File
Once the ISO is downloaded, you need to mount it. Right-click on the ISO file and select the “Mount” option from the context menu. This will create a virtual drive that you can access through File Explorer.
Step 3: Identify the Drive Letter
After mounting the ISO, take note of the drive letter assigned to it. For example, it may appear as “DVD Drive (D:)” or similar. This will be needed for the next step.
Step 4: Open Command Prompt
Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type cmd
, and hit Enter to launch the Command Prompt. Make sure to run it as an administrator by right-clicking and selecting “Run as administrator.”
Step 5: Execute the Setup Command
In the Command Prompt, navigate to the mounted ISO drive. If your drive letter is D, you would type:
D:
Then run the Windows 11 setup by typing:
setup.exe
Press Enter to execute the command. If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click “Yes” to allow the setup to proceed.
Step 6: Start the Windows 11 Installation
Once the setup initializes, you will see options for installation. Click on “Change how setup downloads updates” to set your preferences for updates. Follow the prompts until you reach the license agreement stage, where you must accept the terms to proceed.
Step 7: Choose What to Keep
When prompted about what you want to keep during the upgrade, select the options that best fit your needs. You can choose to keep your files, apps, or do a clean installation based on your preference.
Step 8: Begin the Installation Process
After configuring your preferences, you will reach the “Ready to install” page. Click on “Install” to begin the upgrade process. Be patient as this process may take some time, and it is crucial not to interrupt it.
Step 9: Complete the Setup
Once the installation is complete, your PC will restart. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Windows 11. At the privacy settings screen, choose your preferences and continue until you reach the desktop.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth upgrade:
- Always back up your important files before starting the upgrade.
- Ensure that your device has enough storage space to accommodate the new installation.
- If you encounter errors, double-check that your system meets the minimum requirements and that the ISO file is not corrupted.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully upgraded your unsupported PC to Windows 11 24H2. This process allows you to enjoy the latest features and security updates. If you have any questions or face challenges during the upgrade, feel free to reach out for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my PC compatible with Windows 11?
Even if your PC does not meet the official requirements, the method described in this guide allows you to bypass those restrictions.
What should I do if I encounter errors during installation?
Ensure that you have followed all steps accurately and that your ISO file is intact. If problems persist, consider seeking support from forums or tech community websites.
Will upgrading to Windows 11 affect my installed applications?
This depends on the option you chose regarding what to keep during the installation. If you selected to keep apps and files, they should remain intact.