How to Install Windows 11 (Step by Step)

Install Windows 11 via Windows Update, the Installation Assistant or a USB stick, with backup and data tips first.

12 May 20263 min read

To install Windows 11, the easiest way is Settings > Windows Update, if your PC is eligible. If the upgrade isn’t offered, use Microsoft’s Installation Assistant or a bootable USB stick. Expect about 1–2 hours in total, plus a 5–6 GB download.

Before you start: backup and checks

Check your laptop qualifies. Run PC Health Check; our Windows 11 system requirements guide explains any failures.
Back up your files. Upgrades usually keep everything, but not always. See how to back up your computer.
Free up at least 20–30 GB on the C: drive.
Plan the data. The download is around 5–6 GB. Use home Wi-Fi or a night bundle rather than daytime mobile data.
Plug into power. A KPLC outage halfway through can corrupt the install. Use a charged battery and the charger, ideally on a UPS for desktops.

The upgrade from Windows 10 is free on eligible PCs, as long as Windows 10 was activated.

Method 1: Windows Update

Best for most people.

Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
If you see “Upgrade to Windows 11 is ready”, click Download and install.
Leave it running; it downloads in the background, then asks to restart.

Method 2: Installation Assistant

Use this if Windows Update doesn’t offer the upgrade but PC Health Check says you pass.

Search “Windows 11 download” and go to microsoft.com. Never download Windows from other sites.
Under Windows 11 Installation Assistant, click Download Now.
Run it, accept the licence and let it download and prepare the upgrade.
The PC restarts several times. Don’t switch it off.

Method 3: bootable USB

For a clean start, or to install on several PCs.

You need a USB stick of 8 GB or more (it will be wiped).
On Microsoft’s download page, use Create Windows 11 Installation Media (the Media Creation Tool).
Choose USB flash drive and let it build.
Restart the laptop and boot from the USB (see how to boot from USB).
Choose Upgrade to keep files, or a custom install to start fresh. Our clean install guide covers the second option.

A clean install erases the drive, so only do it after your backup is done.

First-boot setup

After the final restart, Windows walks you through setup:

Choose region and keyboard (United States or United Kingdom layout both work for Kenyan keyboards).
Connect to Wi-Fi. Home and Pro editions usually require internet and a Microsoft account during setup.
Set a PIN, then choose your privacy settings (you can turn most of them off).
Run Windows Update again to pull the latest drivers and patches.