14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft will start the Windows 10 Anniversary Update tomorrow, so retail users who haven’t been part of the Insider program can finally get all the new features, including Windows Ink, the new Start menu, the revamped Action Center or support for browser extensions in Microsoft Edge.
The company will offer two different easy-to-use methods to make sure that users receive the Anniversary Update and install it correctly, and although for many users these are pretty straightforward, it’s very important to know what your options are.
Method #1: Via Windows Update
Just like all the other updates released by Microsoft, the new Anniversary Update will be offered to users via Windows Update, so Windows 10 machines should receive it all automatically.
This means that no user input is necessary, and files will be downloaded through Windows Update, while the installation of the Anniversary Update will start at the next reboot.
This is pretty much the best option for everyone on Windows 10 because they don’t have to move a single finger, but it also comes with one major drawback: Microsoft says that the release of the new version will take place in stages, so it could take a while until everyone receives it. Depending on how lucky you are, you could get it sooner or later, but with Windows Update, your only option is to wait.
So tomorrow, when the rollout officially starts, just open Settings > Update & security > Windows Update > Check for updates, and you’re good to go. Just let it download and install all necessary files, reboot your system and wait until everything’s complete.
Method #2: Using the stand-alone ISO
As we’ve told you earlier today, Microsoft will also release a new ISO tomorrow that will allow not only to perform the upgrade more quickly but also to clean-install Windows 10 and start from scratch.
The Windows Media Creation tool will help you easily download this ISO and create a bootable disc or USB drive, which then enables you to update one or more computers to Windows 10 version 1607.
This method comes in handy to those who don’t necessarily want a completely automated solution such as Windows Update, but also who don’t mind to be a bit involved in the update process. Furthermore, the dedicated ISO helps users make sure they get the Anniversary Update from day 1 because the staged rollout we’ve told you about won’t impact this method.