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.

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 news writer and apps editor for Windows Central with 11+ years of experience. A Nottingham Trent journalism graduate, Sean has covered the industry’s arc from the Lumia era to the launch of Windows 11 and generative AI. Having started at Thrifter, he uses his expertise in price tracking to help readers find genuine hardware value.

Beyond tech news, Sean is a UK sports media pioneer. In 2017, he became one of the first to stream via smartphone and is an expert in AP Capture systems. A tech-forward coach, he was named 2024 BAFA Youth Coach of the Year. He is focused on using technology—from AI to Clipchamp—to gain a practical edge.