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How to Install Windows 11 Insider Preview

Richard
Written byRichardTech Writer, IT Professional
Jun 29, 2021 Updated Apr 1, 2026 2 min read

This guide shows you how to install the Windows 11 Insider Preview. This is an early version of Windows 11 that you can test before it comes out to everyone.

Why Join the Insider Program?

Microsoft lets people test new Windows 11 features early through the Windows Insider Program. You get to try the latest updates before they’re released to the public. This helps Microsoft find problems and make Windows 11 better.

Check If Your PC Can Run Windows 11

First, make sure your computer meets the requirements for Windows 11. Microsoft made a tool that checks this for you.

Download the Windows 11 PC Health Check tool below.

https://aka.ms/GetPCHealthCheckApp

Run the tool. It will tell you if your PC is ready for Windows 11.

Join the Windows Insider Program

Once your PC passes the check, you can join the Windows Insider Program. Visit the link below to sign up with your Microsoft account.

https://insider.windows.com/en-us

Registration page for the Microsoft Windows Insider Program website

Update Your Windows 10 Machine

Now that you’ve joined the program, you need to link your PC to your Insider account. Here’s how:

  1. Sign in to your Windows 10 computer.
  2. Click the Start button to open Settings.
Windows 10 settings menu for configuring system updates and security

  1. Click Update & Security.
Windows 10 Update and Security settings menu options

  1. In the left menu, select Windows Insider Program.
Windows Insider Program settings screen to begin the installation process

  1. Click Get Started. Link the Microsoft account you used to register for the Insider Program.
Linking a Microsoft account to the Windows Insider Program

  1. Choose the Dev Channel to get the newest builds.
Selecting the Dev Channel to receive Windows 11 Insider builds

  1. Go back to Windows Update and check for new updates.
Windows Update screen showing the Windows 11 Insider Preview download

Your PC will start downloading Windows 11. This may take a while depending on your internet speed.

When the download is done, restart your computer. Windows 11 will install when you restart.

Desktop interface of the newly installed Windows 11 Insider Preview

That’s it! You’re now running Windows 11 Insider Preview.

Summary

Here are the main steps to install Windows 11 Insider Preview:

  • Use the PC Health Check tool to confirm your computer meets Windows 11 requirements.
  • Register for the Windows Insider Program on Microsoft’s website.
  • Open Windows 10 Settings and go to Update & Security.
  • Select Windows Insider Program and click Get Started.
  • Link your Microsoft account to your PC.
  • Choose the Dev Channel for the latest builds.
  • Check for updates in Windows Update.
  • Download and install Windows 11, then restart your computer.

Now you can test Windows 11 before it’s released to everyone. As an Insider, you can help Microsoft improve Windows by sharing feedback about what you find.

Richard2451 articles

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, the owner and lead writer at Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast passionate about simplifying complex IT topics. His years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations have honed his ability to provide practical insights and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

Expertise:Windows 11Ubuntu LinuxCMSApps and Browsers
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