Joining the Windows Insider Program allows you to gain early access to preview builds and test upcoming features before public release. This guide outlines the exact step-by-step process required to enroll your system and download your first update.
Step 1: Enable Optional Diagnostic Data
Windows requires optional diagnostic data to be enabled so Microsoft can collect technical feedback on preview builds during testing:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback.
- Under the Diagnostic data section, turn on Send optional diagnostic data.
Step 2: Link Your Microsoft Account
Connect your Microsoft account within Windows Settings to initiate enrollment into the program:
- Go back to Settings > Windows Update.
- Click on Windows Insider Program.
- Click the Get started button.
- Select Link an account, sign in with your Microsoft account, and click Continue.
- Review and accept the program agreement and privacy statement.
Step 3: Choose Your Insider Channel
Select an Insider channel based on your preference for feature early access versus system stability:
- Experimental Channel: This replaced both the old Dev and Canary channels. It handles early-access features still actively in development, and includes granular controls allowing you to toggle specific feature flags on or off.
- Beta Channel: A streamlined channel that delivers more stable, Microsoft-validated builds closer to a public release, without random feature rollouts.
- Release Preview Channel: The safest rung, giving you early access to the upcoming public build just days before it rolls out universally.
Advanced Channel Options
Under Advanced options, you can select your target product or version. You can also toggle the Show Release Preview option on or off.
Step 4: Restart Your Device
Apply your configuration changes and complete the enrollment phase:
- Click Restart Now.
Step 5: Download and Install the Preview Build
Fetch the update files once your device reboots to complete the installation:
- After your PC restarts, navigate back to Settings > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates (you may need to check multiple times).
- The latest Insider Preview build for your chosen channel will download and install. Follow any final prompts to complete the setup.
Channel Unenrollment Note
Devices on the Beta or Release Preview Channel can unenroll without wiping data, while devices on the Experimental Channel require a clean installation of Windows.
By following these steps, your computer will remain updated with the newest preview software directly from Microsoft. Ensure you select the channel that best matches your tolerance for potential bugs and system stability.