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Are you eager to upgrade to Windows 11 23H2 but don’t have a USB installation media? No worries! You can smoothly install Windows 11 23H2 using the ISO file. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, ensuring you can perform either an upgrade or a clean installation without needing a bootable USB or Media Creation Tool.
Preparation for Windows 11 23H2 Installation
Before diving into the installation process, please know that this method involves wiping your device clean. To safeguard your data, creating a full backup of your computer is crucial. This guide is designed for the official release of Windows 11, and we recommend following these instructions once the OS becomes officially available.
Installing Windows 11 23H2 via ISO File on File Explorer
To initiate the installation of Windows 11 23H2 without relying on a USB flash drive, follow these straightforward steps:
- Download the Windows 11 23H2 ISO File: Download the Windows 11 23H2 ISO file from the official source. If you’re reading this guide before the update is officially released, you can still use these instructions to obtain the latest preview of version 23H2.
- Access File Explorer: Open File Explorer on your Windows device.
- Locate the ISO File: Navigate to the folder where you’ve saved the downloaded Windows 11 23H2 ISO file.
- Mount the ISO File: Right-click on the ISO file and select the “Mount” option. This action virtually inserts the ISO file as a disc drive on your computer.
- Access the Mounted Drive: Click on the mounted drive from the left navigation pane in File Explorer.
- Initiate Setup: Double-click on the “Setup” file within the mounted drive to commence the Windows 11 23H2 upgrade process.
- Optional: Adjust Update Settings: You’ll be presented with the option to change how Windows Setup downloads updates. If you prefer not to download updates during installation, select “Not right now.”
- Disable Updates: Click the “Next” button to install.
- Accept Terms: Review and accept the terms by clicking the “Accept” button.
- Begin Installation: Click the “Install” button to kickstart the Windows 11 23H2 installation process.
If you opt for a clean installation of version 23H2, select the “Change what to keep” option during setup and choose “Nothing” to ensure a fresh start. Follow the on-screen instructions, and Windows 11 23H2 will be installed on your desktop, laptop, or tablet.
What’s New in Windows 11 23H2
The update, available on September 26, 2023, offers several exciting features for version 23H2, including Copilot, Windows Backup, a redesigned File Explorer, updated Settings, Dynamic Lighting, and more. Notably, these features are accessible on devices currently running Windows 11 22H2, even though the About settings page may still display version 22H2. Microsoft plans to complete this rollout before the end of 2023. At this point, an additional update will transition the system from version 22H2 to 23H2. Expect updates to the Media Creation Tool, Installation Assistant, and ISO files. Furthermore, devices with older operating system releases may be eligible for direct updates to version 23H2 via Windows Update.
In short, upgrading to Windows 11 23H2 without a USB installation media is entirely feasible by following these simple steps. Remember to back up your data, and you’ll soon enjoy all the new features and enhancements the latest Windows iteration offers.