Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Install Windows 11 24H2 (Preview Version)

Step 1: Download the Windows 11 24H2 ISO File

Follow these steps to get the ISO:

1. Visit the Windows Insider Program website.

2. Log in using your Microsoft account.

3. Select your desired edition of Windows 11 within the Release Preview Channel (e.g., Build 26100.560).

4. Click the Confirm button to proceed.

5. Choose your preferred installation language.

6. Hit the Confirm button once more.

7. Finally, click the 64-bit Download button to get the file.

Now that you have the ISO file, you’re ready to create a bootable USB drive or set it up in a virtual machine.

Step 2: Create Bootable USB Media

To make your USB bootable, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Rufus website.

2. Download the latest version by clicking on the relevant link in the “Download” section.

3. Launch the downloaded executable.

4. Click the Select button to choose your ISO file.

5. Pick the Windows 11 24H2 ISO that you downloaded earlier.

6. Hit the Open button to proceed.

7. Select the “Standard Windows 11 Installation” option for image creation.

8. (Optional) Set a custom label for your USB drive under “Volume label” (e.g., Windows 11 24H2 Setup ).

9. Click the Start button once everything is set up.

10. Ensure that the options to remove requirements like RAM, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0 are unchecked.

11. (Optional) If you wish to create a local account, you can check the option for this, although it is not generally recommended.

12. Finally, click OK to begin the USB creation process.

Once Rufus is finished, your bootable USB drive will be ready for the installation process.

Step 3: Perform the Clean Installation from USB

Using the USB drive, carry out the installation by following these steps:

1. Insert your Windows 11 24H2 USB flash drive into your computer.

2. Restart the PC and press any key to boot from the USB.

3. Select your desired installation language and format.

4. Hit the Next button to continue.

5. Pick your keyboard and input method, then click Next.

6. Select “Install Windows 11” from the options provided.

7. Agree to the terms by checking the necessary option.

8. Select “I don’t have a product key” to continue.

   Quick note: Automatic activation applies if reinstalling. If it’s a new device, a product key is required.

9. Choose the edition of Windows 11 matching your license key activation (if applicable).

10. Click Next to continue.

11. Click Accept to agree to the EULA.

12. Select partitions to remove by clicking Delete on them; generally, “Drive 0” contains the install files.

13. Select the unallocated space for your clean install and click Next.

14. Confirm the installation by clicking Install.

15. Accept the region settings during the out-of-the-box experience (OOBE).

16. Click Yes to confirm your settings.

17. Choose your preferred keyboard layout and click Yes.

18. Skip any additional layouts if not needed by clicking the Skip button.

19. Connect to a network; automatic for Ethernet, manual for wireless connections.

20. (Optional)

    Confirm a computer name, then click Next (the device will restart).

21. Select “Set up for personal use” for Windows 11 Pro; Home edition does not have this option.

22. Continue with Next.

23. Sign in with your Microsoft account to create a new Windows 11 account.

24. Click Next after confirming your account details.

25. Set a four-digit PIN when prompted and click OK.

26. Adjust your privacy settings as needed, then hit Next.

27. Proceed through the setup steps until you reach completion.

Upon finalization, Windows 11 24H2 will be newly installed and ready for your use.

What is the Windows Insider Program?

Do I need a product key for the clean installation?