Setting Up Windows 11 on a Mac Using Boot Camp
Note: These Mac models do not support Boot Camp: MacBook Air M1, 2020; MacBook Pro 13', M1, 2020; Mac mini M1, 2020; iMac 24-inch, M1, 2021. This includes all devices with an M1 chip.
To verify if your system supports Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Click the Apple logo at the top of the screen.
- Choose About this Mac to see your system's details.
Note: Intel-based PCs will display 'Processor,' while Apple systems will show 'Chip.'
Proceed with the following steps:
Update your software before installation.
Note: Make sure to install all macOS updates before setting up Windows.
- Access the Apple menu at the upper-left corner and select System Preferences.
- Tap on Software Update.
- If no updates are found, a notification will state that your system is up to date.
Note: The system checks for updates automatically. Allow a few seconds for the search to complete. If updates are available, click on Update Now and follow the instructions to download and install them.
Note: If your Mac reboots after an update, open Software Update again to apply any remaining updates.
Prepare your Mac for Windows installation
The Boot Camp Assistant configures your Mac by creating a new partition for Windows named BOOTCAMP and downloading necessary Boot Camp support software.
Note: If you are on a portable Mac, ensure it's connected to a power source before proceeding.
- Plug your USB into the Mac and use the magnifying glass at the top right to search for Boot Camp.
- Open Boot Camp Assistant.
- At the introduction screen, click Continue.
- Check all necessary options and click Continue.
- Choose the Windows 11 .iso file you've downloaded and the USB drive to create the installer on.
- Adjust the storage space needed for the Windows partition by moving the center divider, then click Install.
- Your Mac will then reboot to start the Windows 11 installation.
Note: You cannot modify the partition size later.
Note: For further details on the installation process, see the section: How to install Windows 11? by clicking here.
Installing Boot Camp drivers in Windows
Post installation, the Boot Camp drivers that are compatible with your Mac will start installing.
- Adhere to the on-screen guidelines in the Boot Camp installer within Windows.
- Click Finish upon completion of the installation.
- After your device restarts, follow any prompts from subsequent installation software that might appear.
Note: Avoid pressing the Cancel button during the installation panels.
Note: If a warning about software not passing the Windows logo test appears, click Continue.
Note: You don’t need to interact with brief installer dialog boxes unless prompted to install device software—then click Install. Check for any hidden windows if nothing seems to happen.
Note: If the compatibility software does not start automatically, you may have to install it manually.