Obsolete guide….
Introduction
Windows 10 is boasted to be the last major release or version of Windows. It is promised to be a continuous stream of updates, fixes and enhancements. With the new continuous distribution of Windows 10 continuous testing is required and Microsoft are valuing the feedback from their enthusiasts i.e. those in the Windows Insiders program. You may opt to remain on the:
- Fast track (quick releases possibility of being very unstable) – Tier 2 Tester
- Slow track (more stable releases but less frequent) – Tier 1 Tester
- Mainstream track (stable tested releases only) – General Consumer
Microsoft have finally released an updated Windows Insider .iso (Slow Track). The Windows 14295 .iso may be found and downloaded here. The layout of the page is similar to the Techbench .isos:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windowsinsiderpreviewadvanced
To use this .iso your system must be a Windows 10 Edition Device i.e. have a windows 7, 8.x, 10 OEM or Retail license or been made a Windows 10 Pro Device via the Expired Windows 10130 Upgrade path. Otherwise you will be nagged for product activation.
Before adding your Windows Installation to the Windows Insider Program see Backing up your Windows Installation using Acronis.
You should not test on your primary workstation.
Windows Update Settings
Go to Start → Settings:
Select Update & Security:
Select Advanced Options:
Select Get Started:
If you aren't already signed in with your (Windows Insider) Microsoft Account you will be prompted to sign in:
Select Microsoft Account:
Enter your Microsoft Account and Microsoft Account Password and select Sign In:
You will be requested for your old Windows password one last time, input it and select next:
Once this is done your local account will be switched to a Microsoft Account.
You will be getting a warning you are installing pre-release software select next:
Select confirm:
Then select Restart:
After the Restart go to Start → Settings:
Select Update & Security:
Select Advanced Options:
Opt for the Slow track of Fast Track:
Installing the Windows Insider Build
Going to Check for Updates right away will normally tell you that your Device is Up to Date even if an Insider Build is available.
I've found that you have to leave the system online for a couple of hours until it finds a new build.
It will then prepare to install:
When the updates done Windows Update will mention a Restart has been scheduled. This will usually be at 03:30 in the morning but you can select Restart Now:
Windows Version
The Windows version is watermarked on the Desktop. You may also press the [Windows] and [ r ] keys and type in winver:
This should tell you the build number in this case 14267 and the expiry date in this case the 15/07/2015 (there will be a new build before then).
Note it is still called version 1511 meaning Microsoft haven't changed this new name from TH2.