Insiders can now grab ISO files for the next version of Windows 10

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Windows 10 version 21H1 doesn't have any new features, but you can still grab a preview ISO file for it for a clean installation.

Microsoft Surface Pro 6
Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Image credit: Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • ISO files are available for Windows 10 version 21H1.
  • To get the ISO files, you need to be a Windows Insider.
  • You can use the ISO to perform an in-place upgrade or a clean install.

Windows Insiders can now grab ISO files for Windows 10 version 21H1. Microsoft's Windows Insider Preview Downloads page now has an option to download an ISO for Windows 10 build 19043. To download the ISO, you have to be a Windows Insider. You don't have to have any PCs currently running Insider builds, but your account needs to be registered as an Insider.

Having an ISO file allows you to perform an in-place upgrade or a clean install of the new version of Windows 10. Performing a clean install is the popular choice for many people, as it allows you to start fresh with the latest version of Windows 10, but some people prefer an in-place upgrade.

Unlike many previous updates, Windows 10 version 21H1 is a servicing style update, similarly to Windows 10 version 20H2. Bigger changes to Windows 10 are expected later this year with the Sun Valley update.

If you need help installing Windows 10 version 21H1 from an ISO, we have some guides that can help. First, we have a guide on how to install Windows 10 from USB with UEFI support. We also have a guide on how to do a clean installation of Windows 10.

Since Windows 10 version 21H1 doesn't have fun new features to test out or any big changes, people probably won't race to grab the ISO files for it like with some other updates, but it's nice to have an option.

Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.