This guide helps you install and activate any edition of Windows 11: Home, Pro, Education, or Enterprise. It’s written in a simple and clear way so anyone can follow it — even if it's your first time.
1. Check your PC
To see if your PC can run Windows 11, download the PC Health Check tool: https://aka.ms/GetPCHealthCheckApp
2. Download the Media Creation Tool
- Go to: https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkid=2156295
- Click "Download now" and run the file.
3. Create the installation USB
- Choose "Create installation media for another PC"
- Select language and edition: Windows 11
- Choose architecture: 64-bit
- Select USB flash drive
- Let the tool create your USB installer (this takes a few minutes)
4. (Optional) Enable edition selection during install
If you're not asked to choose between Home, Pro, etc. during setup:
1. Open Notepad and paste this:
[Channel]
Retail
For Enterprise volume keys, paste this instead:
[Channel]
Volume
[VL]
1
2. Save the file as ei.cfg
3. Copy the file to the \sources folder on your USB drive
5. Install Windows 11
- Plug in the USB drive
- Restart your computer
- Boot from USB (press F2, F12, or Del to open the boot menu)
- Select your edition (Home, Pro, etc.)
- Choose "Custom install"
- Select a drive and begin the installation
Your computer may restart a few times during the process.
6. Activate Windows
- After installation, go to Settings > System > Activation
- Enter the license key we sent to your email
You're all set.