Microsoft has began the rollout of the Windows 10 November 2019 Update (version 1909) on November 12, 2019. This is the eighth feature update available for compatible devices, but unlike previous releases, this new version is a minor incremental update with only some visual tweaks and enhancements.
Also, the update is optional, and it's available as a cumulative update through Windows Update for devices already running the May 2019 Update, which means no reinstallation. On devices running an older version of Windows 10, then the process to update to the new release remains the same as previous features updates, which means full reinstallation and longer time to upgrade. (Although it's an optional update, devices running a version nearing the end of life will eventually update automatically to prevent disruption of service.)
Check out our in-depth Windows 10 November 2019 update reivew
Similar to previous releases, Windows 10 version 1909 will roll out gradually, starting with newer devices and it'll then expand more broadly. Typically, most computers will receive the notification to update automatically within the first several days, but it's expected to take some time before the feature update reaches everyone. If you want to make the jump early, you can always force the upgrade manually in at least three ways.
Black Friday buyer's guide: Best deals on the best Windows laptops
In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through the steps to download and install the Windows 10 November 2019 Update (version 1909) on your device.
- How to download Windows 10 November 2019 Update using Windows Update
- How to download Windows 10 November 2019 Update using Update Assistant
- How to download Windows 10 November 2019 Update using Media Creation Tool
Warning: Although the upgrade process is non-destructive, there's always a chance of something that could go wrong. You should consider creating a temporary backup before proceeding, just in case you need to rollback or recover your files. You've been warned.
How to download Windows 10 November 2019 Update using Windows Update
Whether you're running the May 2019 Update or an older release of Windows 10, the safest way to get the new version is to wait until you receive a notification that will confirm that your hardware and software configuration is fully compatible. However, if it's been some time since the new version became available, then you can force the upgrade using Windows Update.
To apply version 1909 using Windows Update, use these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Click on Update & Security.
- Click on Windows Update.
- Click the Check for updates button.
- Click the Download and install now button, under the Feature Update to Windows 10, version 1909 section.
- Click the Restart Now button after the update has been downloaded on your device.
Once you complete the steps, if you're already running version 1903 (May 2019 Update), then Windows Update will download version 1909 as a cumulative update, which will not require full reinstallation.
However, if you're running version 1809 or an older version, then Windows Update will download version 1909, and it'll install as a typical upgrade, which means full reinstallation of Windows 10.
If using Windows Update your computer isn't seeing the new version, there could be a block that Microsoft is using because of the new release is still not compatible with your hardware or software configuration.
How to download Windows 10 November 2019 Update using Update Assistant
To upgrade to Windows 10 version 1909 using the Update Assistant tool, use these steps:
- Open this Microsoft support website.
- Click the Update now button.
- Double-click the Windows10Upgrade file to launch the assistant.
- Click the Update Now button.
- Click the Next button.
- Click the Restart Now button.
After you complete the steps, the Update Assistant experience will download the required files, and it'll install version 1909, preserving your files, apps, and settings. Using this method could take a long time depending on your internet connection and hardware configuration.
How to download Windows 10 November 2019 Update using Media Creation Tool
You can also use the Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade or fresh installation of Windows 10 version 1909.
To upgrade to the latest version of Windows 10 with the Media Creation Tool, use these steps:
Quick note: Although the download page still refers it as the "May 2019 Update," the installer has been updated and renamed to "MediaCreationTool1909.exe," and it should install November 2019 Update.
- Open this Microsoft support website.
- Click the Download tool now button.
- Double-click the MediaCreationToolxxxx.exe file to begin the in-place upgrade process.
- Click the Accept button to agree to the terms.
- Select the Upgrade this PC now option.
- Click the Accept button again to agree to the notice and license terms.
- Confirm the Keep personal files and apps option is selected.Quick tip: If the option isn't selected, click the Change what to keep link to choose the option to preserve your apps, settings, and files after the upgrade.
- Click the Install button.
Once you complete the steps, the Media Creation Tool will begin the normal upgrade process of Windows 10 version 1909 on your desktop, laptop, or tablet without losing your apps, settings, and personal files.
If you've already tried all the recommended methods to apply the new update, you should consider using the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB flash drive, which you can use to perform a clean installation of Windows 10 with the latest features and changes.
Although we're outlining multiple methods to upgrade your device to the latest version of Windows 10, if you're already running the May 2019 Update, you don't need to use the Update Assistant or Media Creation Tool, because it'll take a long time and it won't be necessary. Instead, use the Windows Update settings, as using this method, your device will receive the new version as a regular cumulative update, which will install very quickly.
