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Microsoft’s download page lists Windows 11 2026 Update, version 26H2, as the current release. That does not mean every compatible PC is receiving it through Windows Update at the same time. To upgrade the PC you’re using, Microsoft’s Installation Assistant is the direct route; use the Media Creation Tool or an ISO when you need bootable media, a clean install, another PC, or a virtual machine.
Is Windows 11 26H2 available for your PC?
Microsoft currently offers 26H2 on its Windows 11 download page. Availability on that page is not a promise of simultaneous Windows Update delivery to every device. Microsoft advises checking its release information for known issues and following any Windows Update notification or device-specific guidance.
Before choosing a route, confirm that your PC meets Windows 11 requirements and check the computer maker’s compatibility and driver information. Some features have additional hardware requirements. Back up important files and the PC before upgrading or installing.
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Choose the right download and installation method
| What you need | Microsoft route | Key limits |
|---|---|---|
| Upgrade the compatible PC you are using | Windows 11 Installation Assistant | Requires a Windows 10/11 license, Windows 10 version 2004 or later, 9 GB of free space, administrator access, and compatible hardware. Supports x64 processors, not Arm-based PCs. |
| Bootable media for a clean install or another PC | Media Creation Tool | Creates x64 media, not Arm media. Requires a blank USB drive with at least 8 GB or a blank DVD. Creating USB media erases its existing contents. |
| ISO for bootable media, a virtual machine, or an in-place upgrade | Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) | The page offers a multi-edition x64 ISO and separate Arm64 ISO downloads. To upgrade from an ISO, mount it and run setup.exe. |
Upgrade the current PC with Installation Assistant
Microsoft describes the Installation Assistant as “the best option for installing Windows 11 on the device you’re currently using.” It is intended for a compatible x64 PC, not an Arm-based computer. Make sure the prerequisites are met before you download it from Microsoft’s Windows 11 download page.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
- 4GB DDR4 System Memory; 128GB Solid State Drive
- 11.6" HD (1366 x 768) Multi-Touch Display
- Combo headphone/microphone jack - Noble Wedge Lock slot - HDMI; 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1
- Windows 11 Pro
- Check that the PC has a Windows 10/11 license, runs Windows 10 version 2004 or later, has 9 GB of free disk space, and meets Windows 11 hardware requirements.
- Download and run the Windows 11 Installation Assistant as an administrator.
- Let the assistant check hardware compatibility, then review and accept the license terms.
- After the installation is prepared, select Restart Now. The PC will restart several times; do not turn it off during installation.
Create a bootable USB or DVD
Use the Media Creation Tool when you need installation media for a clean install or another supported PC. Microsoft’s tool creates media for x64 processors; its download page directs Arm PC users to wait for Windows Update to notify them when the upgrade is ready for their device.
A USB flash drive must be blank and have at least 8 GB of capacity. The tool deletes the drive’s existing contents, so copy anything you need elsewhere first. You can also choose an ISO and use it to create a DVD.
Rank #2
- Everyday Performance for School and Light Work: A Core M3 2-core, 4-thread processor with a 1.1GHz base frequency and up to 3.0GHz turbo supports online classes, homework, documents, spreadsheets, email, web browsing and video calls for everyday study and entry-level office tasks.
- Crisp 15.6-Inch FHD IPS Display: The 1920x1080 Full HD IPS screen provides a clear, spacious view for homework, notes, presentations, online lessons, web research and streaming at home, school or work.
- 128GB SSD with Room to Grow: The M.2 2280 SATA SSD supports fast startup and everyday file access, with storage expansion up to 2TB. The laptop includes 4GB DDR3 1333MHz memory in two SO-DIMM slots with one slot currently in use.
- Versatile Ports and Wireless Connectivity: Connect accessories and displays through two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, USB-C for charging and USB 2.0 data, HDMI 1.4, a 3.5mm audio jack and a MicroSD card slot, plus dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0.
- Lightweight for Study and Work: At 3.46 lbs and 0.76 inch thin, the DGBook is easy to carry between home, school and work. A 7.7V 5000mAh lithium-ion polymer battery, 2.0MP webcam, dual microphones and dual speakers support everyday portable use and video calls.
- Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s Windows 11 download page and run it as an administrator.
- Accept the terms and choose Create installation media for another PC.
- Choose the language, edition, and 64-bit architecture.
- Choose USB flash drive or ISO and follow the prompts. If you choose USB, select a blank drive whose contents you have backed up.
- Back up the PC you plan to install Windows on. Connect the USB or insert the DVD, then restart the PC.
- If setup does not start from the media, open the boot menu or change the boot order in BIOS/UEFI. The key and steps vary by PC, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your model.
Download an ISO and install from it
Microsoft’s download page provides a multi-edition ISO for x64 devices and separate Arm64 ISO downloads. The multi-edition image uses the product key to unlock the correct edition. Use an ISO to make bootable media, set up a virtual machine, or upgrade the current operating system without booting from external media.
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For an in-place upgrade, download the appropriate ISO, mount it in Windows, and run setup.exe. Microsoft also provides PowerShell instructions for checking an ISO’s SHA-256 hash against the value listed for its language. This check can help detect a corrupted, altered, or tampered-with download. Download links on the page are time-limited, so obtain the current ISO and hash information directly from Microsoft rather than relying on a saved download link.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 14” Diagonal HD BrightView WLED-Backlit (1366 x 768), Intel Graphics,
- Intel Celeron Dual-Core Processor Up to 2.60GHz, 4GB RAM, 64GB SSD
- 3x USB Type A,1x SD Card Reader, 1x Headphone/Microphone
- 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, HP Webcam with Integrated Digital Microphone
- Windows 11 OS, Dale Blue
Rank #4
- 14” Diagonal HD BrightView WLED-Backlit (1366 x 768), Intel Graphics
- Intel Celeron Dual-Core Processor Up to 2.60GHz, 4GB RAM, 64GB SSD
- 1x USB Type C, 2x USB Type A, 1x SD Card Reader, 1x Headphone/Microphone
- 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, HP Webcam with Integrated Digital Microphone
- Windows 11 OS
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
What to check before installing
- Review Microsoft’s Windows release information for known issues that may affect your device.
- Confirm Windows 11 system requirements and any additional hardware needed for features you use.
- Check your PC manufacturer’s compatibility and driver guidance for your specific model.
- Back up important files and the PC before installation.
- Do not treat unsupported hardware as a safe shortcut. Microsoft warns that a PC below minimum requirements can have compatibility problems, may be unsupported and ineligible for updates, and may incur damage outside the manufacturer’s warranty.
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