How to Check Out Early Versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11
If you’re interested in trying out early versions of Microsoft’s latest operating systems, Windows 10 and Windows 11, before they are released to the public, then this article is for you. The process is simple, and joining Microsoft’s Windows Insider Program will give you access to these experimental builds.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps needed to check out early versions of both Windows 10 and Windows 11 by enrolling in the Windows Insider Program.
1. Join the Windows Insider Program
Before you can access the early versions of either operating system, you need to join the Windows Insider Program.
To do this, follow these steps:
a) Go to the Windows Insider Program website: https://insider.windows.com/
b) Click on “Sign Up.”
c) Sign in with your Microsoft account or create one if you don’t have one yet.
d) Read and accept the terms and conditions.
e) You’re all set! You are now a part of the program.
2. Enabling Insider Previews
Now that you are a member of the program, it’s time to enable Insider Previews on your computer. Follow these steps:
a) Click on the Start button and then click on Settings.
b) Open the Update & Security section.
c) In the sidebar, select “Windows Insider Program.”
d) Click on the “Get Started” button.
e) Link your Microsoft account (the one you used for signing up at step 1), then click on “Continue.”
f) Choose your preferred Insider settings. There are three available options:
– Dev Channel: Offers unsupported builds with new features and possible bugs suitable for developers and tech-savvy users.
– Beta Channel: Provides more stabilized builds but may still have some bugs. Suitable for users who wish to try new features with relatively less risk.
– Release Preview Channel: Offers builds that are almost ready for public release. Recommended for users who want early access to upcoming stable releases.
g) Click on “Confirm” and then again on “Confirm” when prompted with the legal notice.
h) Restart your PC when prompted.
3. Installing an Early Version
After enrolling in the Windows Insider Program and choosing your preferred channel, it’s time to install an early version.
a) Click on the Start button and then click on Settings.
b) Open the Update & Security section.
c) Click on Windows Update.
d) You will see a new update available specified as an Insider Preview build. Click on “Download and Install” or “Check for updates” to start downloading the preview build.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the installation process will begin, and you’ll be running an early version of Windows 10 or Windows 11, depending on your selected channel and current builds available.
Remember that these early versions are not fully stable, and you may encounter issues, bugs, or incomplete features. Make sure to back up your files before installing a preview build, and consider installing them on a secondary device or virtual machine if you’re worried about stability.
By participating in Microsoft’s Windows Insider Program, you’ll have access to the latest features and improvements before they’re widely released. Use this opportunity to explore new updates, share your feedback with Microsoft, and contribute to making Windows even better.