Microsoft is rolling out Windows 11 version 26H2, also called the Windows 11 2026 Update. For eligible computers already running version 24H2 or 25H2, installation should be relatively quick, with a small download and a restart rather than a full operating system upgrade.
Availability is being phased in, so the update will not appear on every compatible PC immediately. Microsoft may also delay it on devices affected by known compatibility problems. Windows Experience Blog
Check which Windows version you have
Before choosing an installation method, open Settings > System > About and look under Windows specifications.
Computers running Windows 11 version 24H2 or 25H2 can receive 26H2 through an enablement package. Microsoft describes this as a small update that activates features already delivered through previous monthly updates.
Older Windows versions need a fuller upgrade process. That does not automatically mean deleting your files or starting with an empty computer. An upgrade that preserves existing apps and data is different from a clean installation. Microsoft Support
Install through Windows Update
For most users, Windows Update is the simplest place to start.
- Open Settings.
- Select Windows Update.
- Turn on Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.
- Select Check for updates.
- If Windows 11 version 26H2 appears, select Download and install.
- Save your work and restart when prompted.
Enabling the toggle does not guarantee immediate access. Your device must still be eligible for the rollout. If the update is not offered, a manual installation should not be used simply to bypass a compatibility hold.
When to use Installation Assistant
Microsoft also offers the Windows 11 Installation Assistant through its official download page.
This provides another upgrade route for compatible computers, including those moving from an older Windows release. The tool checks compatibility before offering the installation.
However, it is designed for computers with x64 processors and does not run on Arm based PCs. Microsoft also advises checking known issues and hardware requirements before proceeding. microsoft.com
If your computer already qualifies for the smaller enablement package, Windows Update avoids running a larger installation unnecessarily.
Understand the USB and ISO options
The Media Creation Tool creates Windows installation media. Preparing a USB drive requires at least 8GB of space and erases the drive’s existing contents, so copy anything important elsewhere first.
An ISO is a downloadable installation image. Mounting it within Windows and running setup.exe can provide an upgrade route that preserves files and applications, where the configuration supports it.
Before proceeding, confirm that Setup explicitly offers Keep personal files and apps. If that option is unavailable, stop and check the installation language, edition and compatibility.
Booting from installation media for a clean install is a different process and can remove existing data. Creating a USB installer does not, by itself, mean you must wipe the computer.
What changes after installation?
Microsoft says version 26H2 brings together improvements introduced through recent updates, covering security, accessibility, productivity and management.
Its release notes highlight File Explorer usability changes, app specific taskbar actions and settings backup features. Some improvements may already look familiar because they arrived before the version number changed.
After installation, return to Windows Update to check for additional updates, then review Settings > System > About to confirm version 26H2 is installed.
Back up important files before starting, keep your laptop connected to power and allow time for restarts. For eligible 24H2 and 25H2 devices, the smaller Windows Update installation is the most straightforward route to the 2026 release.