Installing Windows 11 – Step by Step

Installing Windows 11 – Step by Step

Guide · Updated May 2026

Install Windows 11.
Step by Step.

A clear, safe guide to installing and activating Windows 11 — from the USB stick to the finished setup.

⏱️ Reading time: 8 minutes 💻 Difficulty: Easy 🛡️ Original license

Installing Windows 11 is easier today than ever before. With a USB stick, a valid product key and around 30 minutes, you can turn your PC into a modern, secure and productive system. This guide walks you through every step — clearly, precisely and without detours.

System requirements

Before you start, check whether your PC meets Microsoft's official requirements.

For a full check of TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, processor, RAM and storage, you can check your Windows 11 compatibility here.

Component Minimum requirement
Processor 1 GHz or faster, 2 cores, 64-bit
Memory 4 GB RAM
Storage 64 GB of free storage
Firmware UEFI with Secure Boot
TPM TPM version 2.0
Graphics card DirectX 12 compatible, WDDM 2.0
Display 9 inch, HD resolution (720p)
Internet Required for setup

Installation in 6 steps

Follow this order — from preparation to your first sign-in.

1

Back up your data

Back up all important files before you start. A fresh installation overwrites the system drive.

  • Use an external hard drive or OneDrive
  • Note down license keys for other programs
  • Export browser bookmarks
2

Create installation media

Download the Media Creation Tool directly from Microsoft and create a bootable USB stick (at least 8 GB).

  • Open Microsoft.com/software-download/windows11
  • Choose "Create Windows 11 installation media"
  • Plug in the USB stick and follow the instructions
3

Boot from the USB stick

Restart the PC and open the BIOS/UEFI (usually with F2, F12, Del or Esc). Set the USB stick as the first boot device.

  • Change the boot order
  • Leave Secure Boot enabled
  • Save the settings and restart
4

Install Windows

The Windows installer starts automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions.

  • Choose language and keyboard layout
  • Click "Install now"
  • Select "Custom: Install Windows only"
  • Format the target drive and install Windows
5

Enter the product key

Enter your 25-character product key. You can skip this step and activate Windows later.

  • Find the key in your KARINEX confirmation email
  • Format: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
  • Alternatively: activate after the first start
6

Finish setup

After installation, set up your region, keyboard, Microsoft account and privacy settings. Your system is then ready to use.

  • Link a Microsoft account or create a local account
  • Adjust privacy settings
  • Install Windows updates
  • Check important drivers

Activate Windows

Activate your license to use the full range of features.

How to activate Windows 11

Open Settings → System → Activation → "Change product key" → enter your 25-character key → Activate. If you have any questions, the KARINEX team is happy to help, free of charge.

Important: The right of withdrawal expires once the license is activated, in accordance with § 356 (5) BGB. Only activate once you are sure the product meets your requirements.

Which Windows 11 edition do you need?

Four editions for different needs — all with instant download and an original license.

Windows 11 Home

For private users and home use. All standard features.

Learn more

Windows 11 Pro

For professionals and the self-employed. With BitLocker and Remote Desktop.

Learn more

Windows 11 Pro for Workstations

For demanding hardware and server-class workstations.

Learn more

Windows 11 Pro OEM (DVD)

With a physical DVD and product key — for a classic installation.

Learn more

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the most important questions about the installation.

How long does installing Windows 11 take?

The installation itself takes about 20 to 40 minutes on modern devices. With preparation, drivers and the first updates, you should allow 1 to 2 hours.

Where do I find my product key from KARINEX?

After your purchase, you'll receive a confirmation email with your 25-character product key and a step-by-step guide. If you have any questions, you can reach us via the contact page.

Can I install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?

With Windows 11 Pro, installation with a local account is possible. With Windows 11 Home, a Microsoft account is generally required.

What should I do if TPM 2.0 is not available?

First check in the BIOS/UEFI whether TPM 2.0 is disabled — on many mainboards it has to be enabled manually. On older systems without TPM 2.0, Windows 11 is not officially supported.

What happens to my data during installation?

With a fresh installation on the same partition, all data is deleted. Back up important files beforehand on an external hard drive or in the cloud.

Can I upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11?

Yes, provided your PC meets the system requirements. Microsoft offers the free upgrade via Windows Update.

Does my right of withdrawal expire on activation?

Yes. In accordance with § 356 (5) BGB, the statutory right of withdrawal expires once digital content is activated. At KARINEX, a statutory right of withdrawal (14 days) also applies to non-activated licenses.

Ready for Windows 11?

Choose the right edition — original license, instant download and a statutory right of withdrawal (14 days). If you have any questions, our team is here to help, in German.

View Windows 11 licenses