Windows 11 is the next big update coming to the widely used operating system later this year. With a new UI, settings, and functionality, everyone and their grandmom are waiting to get their hands on this version. And now you can. The preview builds, at least.
Microsoft has released the first preview build of Windows 11 to the beta channel, which should be less buggy and more stable than the initial builds which were available on the developer channel. At least, in theory, it should be less buggy.
So, if you’re itching to try out the new OS, this would be the opportunity you need to get your feet wet, but you may want to read on before you get to downloading.
While it is less buggy, it’s not entirely free of bugs; it is pre-release software, after all.
But the latest build (22000.100) should be the least bug-infested one as yet, so if you’re currently testing Windows 11 in the Windows Insider program, now would be the perfect time to hop onto the Beta Channel for the smoothest experience available thus far.
There’s also a pretty long list of bug fixes that have been applied. More than a dozen of those are for the taskbar itself, while others tweak File Explorer, Search, and the general Windows 11 experience.
To get access to the preview builds, you need to become a member of the Windows Insider program. This can be done by heading over to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Insider Program and then simply following the prompts.
Depending on your current privacy settings, the system may ask you to enable optional diagnostic data collection before you can join.
While this build is the most stable so far, it’s still got its issues. So, if you want to try out the new OS, I recommend getting it on a spare system. Maybe some old laptop that doesn’t get much attention can be pulled out for this.
Avoid installing it onto your primary system as it could very easily impact your day-to-day work. And, as every person in IT will tell you, back up your files. You should back up your files even if you’re not jumping to Windows 11. Seriously, go do it right now.
If you are technologically savvy, you can try Windows 11 on a virtual machine. This way, you can test out everything the system offers and simply shut down the virtual machine once you’re done. If you’re one of those who don’t have 4 to 5 laptops lying around, this is the best option.
Of course, you can always just wait for the official release. We expect it to drop sometime in late 2021, and for existing Windows 10 systems, the upgrade will happen via Windows Update in early 2022.
But, if you absolutely MUST try it out right now, I’d recommend waiting just a little longer. Let the internet do its thing and find the major bugs so Microsoft can iron them out. A little while from now, it’ll be even more stable.
About Microsoft
Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975, Microsoft is an American MNC that creates, licenses, supports and sells computers, software, electronics, video games, and corresponding services.
Some of the most popular titles in the world, like Age of Empires, Forza, Gears of War, Halo, Minecraft, Microsoft Solitaire, Microsoft Flight Simulator, and State of Decay, have been developed and published by Microsoft.
Microsoft is also known for establishing the famous console brand Xbox, along with the video game subscription Xbox Game Pass.
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