Compatible PCs are starting to receive the Windows 10 May 2021 Update (version 21H1). Although using Windows Update is the recommended method for installing the feature update, you can alternatively upgrade by manually installing the enablement package (KB5000736).
Devices running versions 20H2 and 2004 are the only ones that can download and install the enablement package. You cannot upgrade using the enablement package if you are using version 1909 or a previous release. The two most recent versions of Windows 10 and version 21H1 are based on the file core system, which explains why. Therefore, employing quality updates during the development process, the new enhancements have already been dormantly distributed to devices running versions 20H2 and 2004. But until the KB5000736 update is applied, these new features won’t work.
This method minimizes the number of reboots and drastically cuts down on the time needed to upgrade from version 20H2 or 2004 to version 20H2.
You can upgrade your device to Windows 10 21H1 by following the instructions in this article to download and manually install the enablement package.
Upgrade to version 21H1 with update KB5000736
Installing the enablement package can be helpful in many circumstances, but it is advised to wait until the updates become available automatically. For instance, if the device hasn’t received the update from Windows Update in a while, or if you wish to test the update on a backup computer before updating your primary device. (Check out the YouTube video tutorial as well.)
Download KB5000736 enablement package
Use the following URLs to download the enablement package needed to update your device from 20H2 or 2004 to 21H1:
-
KB5000736
(msu) 64-bit |Download
-
KB5000736
(msu) 32-bit |Download
Make that the device is running version 2004 or 20H2 before beginning the enablement package upgrade process. Additionally, the servicing stack update for September 8, 2020 (or later) and update KB5003173 (build 19041.985) or higher must be installed.
Install Windows 10 21H1 enablement package
Use following procedures to install the May 2021 Update (KB5000736) enablement package:
OpenFile Explorer.
Enter the location of the Windows 10.0-kb5000736-x64 or Windows 10.0-kb5000736-x86.msu file.
Double-click the installer that runs on its own.
Press the “Yes” button.
KB5000736
Press the button labeled “Restart now.”
The computer will update to version 21H1 when you finish the steps, at which point you may begin utilizing the enhanced features and enhancements. (See also How to verify whether your computer has the Windows 10 May 2021 Update installed.)
Check out this video lesson that explains how to install the enablement package on your PC if you would rather watch the steps. You can always use these methods to remove the update and go back to the previous version if you encounter problems or bugs.
You can still upgrade if you’re on version 1909 or a previous version, but you’ll need to use additional tools, such as the Media Creation Tool or Update Assistant. Alternatively, you can wait for Windows Update to automatically release the updated version.