How to Check for an Update on Windows
Microsoft’s Windows 11 packs a punch when it comes to features, and the new operating system promises to ameliorate overall system performance across all eligible devices.
If these promises are anything to go by, then Windows 11 is worth upgrading to, which is why many PC owners are constantly on the lookout for when they’ll get the new update on their device.
Here, here you’ll learn how to check for Windows 11 updates on your PC, as well as how to side-load it if you haven’t gotten the update natively.
Windows 11 Update: The Current Situation
When Microsoft released Windows 11 to the public in October 2021, it strictly stated that it planned to release the update to as many eligible devices as possible by the end of Q2 2022.
Ideally, new devices will be the first to get this update, while much older devices will get the update in other phases of the release. And the good news is that everyone with a PC running on licensed Windows 10 will get the Windows 11 update for free, albeit many have been waiting for this opportunity for ages.
In the wake of this, the critical question everyone asks is, “When will I get Windows 11 update on my PC?” and “How do I check for Windows 11 update?”
If the above are your concerns, I’ve got a quick workaround for you, even if Microsoft hasn’t pushed the update to your device yet.
How to Check for Windows 11 Update
Ideally, you should get a notification on the bottom-right panel of your desktop when there’s a Windows 11 update, but if you don’t, simply check manually by navigating to the Windows update section in settings:
- Press Windows + I to launch Settings
- Navigate to Updates and Security
- Click Windows Update therein
- Next, click Check for Updates
- If Windows 11 is already available, you’ll see Feature Update to Windows 11, under which you can click Download and Install
Note: You must have an internet connection to see and download this update.
If you can’t find Windows 11 update in this window, then you’re one of the many users Microsoft hasn’t pushed the Windows 11 update to. Don’t despair, though; there’s a couple of workarounds for you.
Update to Windows 11 Via an Installation Assistant
Microsoft has a designated installation assistant for Windows 11, which you can download from here.
Once the download is complete, install the assistant on your PC and then launch it. You’ll get a Run prompt, click on it and then Accept and Install to begin the installation process. Again, you must be connected to WiFi during this process, and your PC may restart several times during installation.
Disk Image Installation
The final option you have is to download Windows 11 disk image (ISO). Again, you can get this from Microsoft’s official depository. Before using this option, ensure to backup all your essential files on an external hard drive should there be a hiccup amid installation.
Or, Wait it Out
Sometimes, the best option is to wait for Microsoft to push the Windows 11 update to your PC, as it’s only with it that you’re guaranteed a safe, hassle-free installation. Also, ensure your PC meets all the requirements to install Windows 11 and that your current Windows version is a licensed one.
