Upgrading to the latest version of Windows 11 (24H2) doesn’t have to be complicated — or risky. If you’re looking to install Windows 11 24H2 without using a USB drive and without losing your data, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process. Best of all, this method works on both supported and unsupported PCs, meaning you can upgrade older hardware without hassle.
Why This Method Works
Microsoft’s official method often blocks unsupported systems and typically requires a bootable USB. However, this approach bypasses compatibility checks by leveraging the Windows Server setup engine, allowing you to directly install Windows 11 on any system.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Windows 11 24H2 Without USB
✅ Step 1: Download the Windows 11 ISO
- Open your preferred web browser.
- Search for “Windows 11 ISO Download” or go directly to the official Microsoft download page:
👉 https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11 - Scroll down to “Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)” section.
- Select “Windows 11 (multi-edition ISO)”, then click Download.
- Choose the correct product language. You must match your current system language to avoid installation issues. To check your system language:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Type the command:
dism /online /Get-Intl - Look for the value under Default system UI language (e.g.,
en-US).
- Once selected, click 64-bit Download. The ISO file (about 5.4 GB) will begin downloading.
✅ Step 2: Mount and Extract the ISO Files
After the ISO download completes:
- Right-click the ISO file and select Mount (or use extraction tools like WinRAR if Mount isn’t available).
- A new virtual drive will appear showing all Windows setup files.
- Copy all files from the mounted ISO.
- Navigate to your C:\ drive and create a new folder named
Win11. - Paste the copied files into
C:\Win11.
✅ Step 3: Launch Installation Using Command Prompt
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type the following command (replace if your folder name differs):
C:\Win11\setup.exe /product serverThis command tricks the setup into using the Windows Server installation method, bypassing restrictions. - The installer will open and show “Install Windows Server” — don’t worry, this is a normal part of the bypass.
✅ Step 4: Proceed with Installation
- Click “Not Right Now” when prompted to download updates.
- Click Next and then Accept the license agreement.
- Under “Choose what to keep”, select:
- Keep personal files, apps, and settings (recommended).
- Click Install to begin the upgrade process.
The system will restart a few times during installation. Once completed, you will be welcomed into the new Windows 11 24H2 environment — with all your files and applications intact.
Post-Installation Cleanup
📁 Delete Installation Files
To free up space:
- Go to
C:\and delete theWin11folder. - Use Shift + Delete for permanent removal.
⚠️ Important: Don’t Delete Windows.old Folder (Yet)
A folder named Windows.old will also be present in C:\. This allows you to revert back to your previous Windows version (e.g., Windows 10) within 10 days.
If you’re happy with Windows 11 after 10 days, you can safely delete this folder to reclaim space.
Optional: Downgrade Back to Windows 10
If you change your mind within 10 days:
- Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
- Click on Go Back.
- Follow the prompts to roll back to Windows 10.
Conclusion
Upgrading to Windows 11 24H2 doesn’t have to be limited by USB creation tools or strict hardware requirements. Using this method, you can smoothly install the latest version of Windows 11 on nearly any PC — all while keeping your personal files, apps, and settings intact.
Tags
Windows 11 upgrade, Windows 11 24H2, install Windows 11 without USB, Windows 11 unsupported PC, Windows 11 ISO, Windows upgrade method, no data loss Windows install
Hashtags
#Windows11 #Windows11Upgrade #TechGuide #PCUpgrade #MicrosoftWindows #WindowsTips #WindowsISO #WindowsInstallation #Win11 #TechTutorial
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. While the method shown is safe and tested, altering system files and using setup workarounds may not be officially supported by Microsoft. Proceed at your own risk, and consider backing up your data before beginning the upgrade process.
