Have you ever wondered how you could get early access to new features of the Windows operating system on your Windows PC? We got you covered. Today we will be talking about the Windows Insider Program and why to join it. We will also guide you on various Insider channels and how to join them and install them on your Windows PC.
Basically, the Windows Insider Program allows you to test new features and updates before they are released to the general public. You get an opportunity to provide feedback and improve the overall user experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you will be able to join the Windows Insider Program.
What is the Windows Insider Program?
The Windows Insider Program is like a special club for people who love trying out new stuff on their Windows PCs. It’s run by Microsoft, the company that made Windows, and they invite members to test out upcoming features and updates before they’re available to everyone else.
Being part of the Windows Insider Program means you get to be one of the first to test new features and improvements in Windows. But it’s not just about getting early access; it’s also about helping Microsoft make Windows better.
You see when you try out these new things, you might find some bugs or problems. And that’s a good thing! By reporting those issues back to Microsoft, you’re helping them find and fix those pesky bugs before they release the updates to everyone else. So, it’s like you’re helping to make Windows stable and smoother for everyone.
To join this exciting program, all you need is a Microsoft Account, which is easy to create if you don’t have one already. Then, you simply sign up and choose which type of updates you want to try.
If you’re someone who loves technology, wants to be among the first to explore new features, and doesn’t mind helping out by giving feedback, then the Windows Insider Program is perfect for you!
Why Join Windows Insider Program?
Joining the Insider Program can be a totally worthwhile experience for you. If you are a tech enthusiast and Windows user who wants to test out new features before they are rolled out for everyone.
Apart from getting early updates, here are some benefits of becoming a Windows Insider:
- Early Access: As a Windows Insider, you will be getting to experience the latest features and updates before they become available to the general public.
- Feedback: Your feedback becomes valuable in shaping the future of Windows. By reporting bugs, providing suggestions, and sharing your insights, you can help improve the operating system.
- Engaging Community: When you are a part of the Insider Program, you connect with other like-minded enthusiasts. This way you will be able to share your experiences and discuss Windows-related topics.
- Influence Development: As an Insider, you also have the chance to influence Microsoft’s decisions about new features and changes.
- Exclusivity: You get access to exclusive events, webcasts, and other opportunities as a member of the Windows Insider community.
- Customize Update Preferences: As a Windows Insider, you can choose from different “channels” to receive updates based on your preferences. Whether you prefer frequent updates with the potential for more issues (Dev Channel), more stable builds (Beta Channel), or updates just before the official release (Release Preview Channel), you have the flexibility to select the option that suits you best.
Windows Insider Channels
There are four different Windows Insider Channels you can choose from to acquire early updates and test new Microsoft features. These channels offer different levels of stability and update frequency, allowing you to choose the one that best meets your needs.
Canary Channel: Least stable Insider build for highly technical users, featuring major Windows kernel changes and new APIs. Frequent issues are possible due to rapid updates. It acts as a bridge between the Dev and Beta channels.
Dev Channel: The Dev Channel offers the most frequent updates, giving you access to the latest features and improvements before anyone else. However, since these updates are still in development, they might come with some bugs and issues.
Beta Channel: If you prefer a more stable experience with fewer bugs, the Beta Channel is a great choice. It provides updates that have undergone some additional testing and refinement. While you still get to try out new features, the risk of encountering major issues is significantly reduced compared to the Dev Channel.
Release Preview Channel: The Release Preview Channel can be suitable for you if you want to experience updates just before they are officially released. These updates are thoroughly tested and considered stable, making them suitable for those who desire a more reliable and polished experience.
How to Join Windows Insider Program on Windows 11
To join the Windows Insider Program on Windows 11, you can follow these steps:
1. Launch the settings menu by pressing Win + I on your keyboard.
2. On the left sidebar look for Windows Update options and click on it.
3. Once you are inside the Windows update menu on your PC. Look for the Windows Insider Program and click on it.
4. Once in Windows Insider Program settings, click on the Get Started button. This will initiate the process of enrollment of your PC in the Insider program.
5. A pop-up window will appear and you will be asked to link an account to join the program. Here click on the Link an account button.
6. A new screen loads and here you will be able to see multiple options. If your Microsoft account is logged in on your Windows 11 PC, you can simply select the same account.
7. Alternatively, you can also use a separate account provided by your Work or school or log in with another Microsoft account too. Once the account is selected, hit the Continue button.
8. Now, comes the very important step. Here, you will be prompted to select any one Insider channel that you want to install and use. Read the descriptions of each channel carefully and click on one that suits you.
9. Then click on Continue to move to the next step.
10. After that, review the agreements for your device and then select Continue.
11. Select Restart Now to restart your device and start receiving your selected builds right away. Alternatively, you can restart your device later and start receiving builds at that time.
How to Install Windows 11 Insider Preview Build
After restarting your PC, you can check for Windows updates to download and install the Windows 11 Insider Preview build. For that, follow the following steps:
1. Open Windows Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update > Update Now. Here, click on the Check for Update button. This way you will be able to manually install the latest Windows Insider Preview build on your Windows PC.
3. Once all the downloads and installations are complete, click on the Restart Now button to apply the update.
How to Verify Windows 11 Insider Preview Build
You can cross-verify if you have successfully joined the Windows Insider Program once you have downloaded and installed Windows 11 Insider Preview Build.
For that, follow the following these steps:
1. Launch the Settings app by pressing Win + I.
2. Under System settings, click on the About option. This way you will be able to view your system details.
3. Look for the Windows specifications section and check for the OS build version.
4. Alternatively, you can double-check your Windows Insider Channel. For that, navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program. Here, you will be able to verify Windows 11 Insider Preview Build channel
Conclusion
Joining the Windows Insider Program on Windows 11 allows you to get early access to upcoming features and updates while contributing to the improvement of the operating system through your feedback. However, if you want to leave the Windows Insider program then you can check out our linked guide.
Moreover, choose the Insider Channel that best suits your preferences and risk tolerance, and enjoy being a part of the exciting world of Windows development. Remember that Insider Preview Builds may contain bugs and issues. So it’s suggested to back up your data and not use them on your primary devices for the best experience.
