Important Prerequisites Before Installation
Data Backup: It is crucial to create a full backup of all your important data, documents, and files before initiating any major operating system update. This safeguards against potential data loss in the unlikely event of an installation failure.
System Requirements Check: You must confirm that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. Microsoft provides the PC Health Check app specifically for this purpose. The key requirements include:
Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
RAM: 4 GB.
Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device.
System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
Option 1: Installing via Windows Update (Recommended)
This is the most straightforward method, especially if your current Windows version (e.g., 24H2) is already highly compatible, as 25H2 is often delivered as a small, quick "Enablement Package."
Go to Settings: Click on the Start Menu, then select the Settings gear icon (or press $\text{Windows key} + \text{I}$).
Navigate to Windows Update: From the Settings menu, select 'Windows Update' (typically located at the bottom of the left-hand pane).
Check for Updates: Click the 'Check for updates' button. The system will connect to Microsoft's servers to see if the new version is ready for your device.
Download and Install: If the Windows 11, version 25H2 feature update is available, it will appear as an option. Click 'Download and install' and follow any subsequent on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Option 2: Using the Windows 11 Installation Assistant
The Installation Assistant is useful for users who prefer a manual installation or for devices that are new to Windows 11.
Download the Assistant: Search on Google for "Windows 11 download" to find the official Microsoft website's download page. Locate and download the 'Windows 11 Installation Assistant'.
Run the File: Execute the downloaded file, typically named $\text{Windows11InstallationAssistant.exe}$. You will need administrator privileges to run it.
Compatibility Check: The Assistant will automatically run a comprehensive check of your hardware to ensure it meets the minimum system requirements for the 25H2 version.
Initiate Installation: If your PC passes the compatibility check, click 'Accept and install' to begin downloading the installation files and start the upgrade process.
Restart the Computer: The installation process will require your computer to restart multiple times to apply the updates and finalize the setup. Do not interrupt your PC during this phase.
Verification: Once the process is complete and you are back on your desktop, you can verify the successful installation by going to Settings > System > About and checking the Windows specification section for 'Version 25H2'.
