How to Install Windows 11 on a PC (Complete A to Z Guide)

Windows 11 introduces a modern design, better performance, and improved security. Installing Windows 11 requires a few additional checks compared to Windows 10, such as TPM and Secure Boot. This guide explains the complete installation process from start to finish.

System Requirements for Windows 11

• 64-bit processor (1 GHz or faster, 2+ cores)
• 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended)
• 64 GB storage minimum
• UEFI firmware with Secure Boot
• TPM version 2.0
• DirectX 12 compatible graphics

Most modern PCs support these requirements.

Step 1: Check Windows 11 Compatibility

Before installing, check if your PC supports Windows 11.

Download Microsoft PC Health Check tool:

https://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-11#pchealthcheck

Run the tool and confirm compatibility.

Step 2: Download Windows 11 ISO / Media Creation Tool

Always download Windows 11 from Microsoft’s official website.

Download page:

https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11

You can download:

• Media Creation Tool (recommended)
• Windows 11 ISO file

Step 3: Create Windows 11 Bootable USB

You need at least an 8GB USB pen drive.

Using Media Creation Tool

1. Run Media Creation Tool as Administrator
2. Select “Create installation media”
3. Choose language and edition
4. Select USB flash drive
5. Wait for the process to complete

Your Windows 11 bootable USB is now ready.

Step 4: BIOS / UEFI Settings (IMPORTANT)

Restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI:

• DEL or F2 – Most systems
• F10 – HP
• F12 – Boot menu

Ensure the following settings:

• Boot Mode: UEFI
• Secure Boot: Enabled
• TPM / fTPM / PTT: Enabled

Save changes and exit BIOS.

Step 5: Boot from USB Drive

Insert the bootable USB and restart the PC.

Open boot menu and select:

UEFI: USB Device

Windows Setup will start.

Step 6: Windows Setup Screen

Select:

• Language
• Time and currency format
• Keyboard layout

Click Install Now.

If asked for product key:

• Enter key, or
• Select “I don’t have a product key”

Step 7: Select Windows 11 Edition

• Windows 11 Home – Personal use
• Windows 11 Pro – Business / advanced users

Accept license terms and continue.

Step 8: Choose Installation Type

Select:

Custom: Install Windows only (Advanced)

This allows disk formatting and partitioning.

Step 9: Partition & Format Disk

For Fresh Installation

1. Select each existing partition
2. Click Delete
3. Select Unallocated Space
4. Click New
5. Allow Windows to create required partitions

Windows will create:

• EFI System partition
• MSR partition
• Primary partition (C drive)

Select the primary partition and click Next.

Step 10: Windows 11 Installation

Windows will:

• Copy files
• Install features
• Install updates
• Restart several times

Do not remove USB until setup completes.

Step 11: First-Time Windows 11 Setup

After installation:

• Select region
• Select keyboard layout
• Connect to Wi-Fi
• Sign in with Microsoft account

Windows 11 Home requires internet and Microsoft account.

Step 12: Desktop & Final Setup

Once desktop loads:

• Remove USB drive
• Install chipset & motherboard drivers
• Install graphics drivers
• Run Windows Update

Post-Installation Important Steps

• Activate Windows
• Install antivirus
• Install essential software
• Create restore point
• Enable backups

Common Windows 11 Installation Problems

TPM or Secure Boot Error

Enable TPM and Secure Boot in BIOS/UEFI.

This PC Can’t Run Windows 11

Check compatibility using PC Health Check.

No Drive Found

Change SATA mode to AHCI or load storage drivers.

Conclusion

Windows 11 installation requires careful preparation, especially BIOS settings. By following this complete A to Z guide, you can install Windows 11 safely and correctly on a new or existing PC.

Taking time during setup ensures better performance, security, and long-term stability.