Windows 10 offers two different channels for users to test new features and updates before they are released to the general public. The “dev” channel is for developers, testers, and other technical personnel who need access to the latest features and updates as they are developed. The “beta” channel is for a wider audience who can try out new features before they are released to the general public. To switch between channels on Windows 10, open the Settings app and click on System. Under “System,” click on “Windows Update.” In the left pane, under “Available updates,” click on “Beta.” If you are using a PC with a touch screen, tap or click on the three lines in the top left corner of the window to open the menu, and then tap or click on “Beta Channel.” Under “Choose how you want to receive beta updates,” select one of the options: Download and install them automatically (recommended), or Choose how you want to receive them: Automatically from Microsoft Update (recommended). Click on OK. If you are using a PC with a mouse, keyboard, or touchpad, double-click on Windows Update in System in Settings. In the left pane under Available updates, double-click on Beta. If you are using a PC with a touch screen, tap or click on Windows Update in System in Settings. In the left pane under Available updates, double-click on Beta Channel. Under “Choose how you want to receive beta updates,” select one of the options: Download and install them automatically (recommended), or Choose how you want to receive them: Automatically from Microsoft Update (recommended). Click on OK. ..
With reports that future Windows 11 Dev Channel updates could be unstable for Windows Insiders, you might want to switch to the more stable Beta Channel—or back to the Dev Channel later if you change your mind. Here’s how to do it.
Dev Channel vs. Beta Channel: What’s the Difference?
In the Windows Insider Program, Microsoft describes the Dev Channel as being “for highly technical users,” and that “there will be some rough edges and low stability.” It’s a bleeding-edge release channel for brand new features that haven’t been tested much yet.
In contrast, the Beta Channel delivers more reliable builds that are “validated” by Microsoft, and it’s “ideal for early adopters” who want to try Windows 11 with less risk of crashes, according to Microsoft.
When the Windows 11 Insider Preview first launched in June 2021, Microsoft released the OS only through the Windows Insider Dev Channel. After Windows 11 launched on the Beta channel on July 29, a more stable version became available for people who might want to try it out (although we found the Dev Channel release was very stable to begin with).
How to Switch Between Dev and Beta Channels in Windows 11
First, it’s important to know that the following instructions only apply to Windows 11 installations that are linked up to the Windows Insider program. (At the time of this writing on August 24, 2021, that means all Windows 11 installations—but that won’t always be the case.)
To get started, press Windows+i to open the Settings app. You can also right-click the Start menu and select “Settings” from the list.
When Settings opens, select “Windows Update” in the sidebar.
In Windows Update, click “Windows Insider Program.”
In Windows Insider Program settings, click “Choose your Insider Settings” to expand the menu if necessary.
When the menu drops down, click the circular button beside either “Dev Channel” or “Beta Channel (Recommended)” to select it, depending on your preference.
And that’s all you need to do. The Settings app saves your selection automatically. Close Settings, and from now on, you’ll only get Beta Channel updates.
At any time, you can revisit Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program and choose a different option to switch channels again. Happy testing!
RELATED: How to Get the Windows 11 Preview on Your PC
