You can download an official Windows 11 Arm64 ISO from Microsoft, but a clean install still depends on your laptop’s boot support and drivers. Check the exact model before erasing anything. An x64 Windows installer is not the right replacement for Arm64.
Choose the right reinstall method
| Your goal | Method to check |
|---|---|
| Fix Windows without immediately wiping the PC | Windows recovery or an in-place reinstall, with the keep options checked carefully. |
| Return the laptop to its factory setup | The manufacturer’s recovery image for the exact model. |
| Start with a fresh Windows installation | Bootable Arm64 installation media plus the required model-specific drivers. |
| Run Windows on an Apple silicon Mac | A supported virtual-machine setup and licence; a PC USB guide is not a Mac installation guide. |
In Settings > System > About, check the system type and processor. Record the full laptop model too. “Snapdragon laptop” alone is not enough to choose drivers for a Lenovo, Samsung or Surface device.
Before you wipe the drive
- Back up documents, photos, app data and anything stored only on the laptop.
- Save your BitLocker recovery key somewhere you can access from another device.
- Record your Windows edition and activation details. Reinstalling Home and changing to Pro are different tasks; see our Windows edition and licence guide.
- Download the manufacturer’s recovery instructions and required Arm64 drivers.
- Arrange a working internet connection after installation. Wi-Fi may need a driver; a compatible Ethernet adapter can help.
- Use a blank USB drive of at least 8GB. Creating installation media erases that USB drive.
Download the official Windows 11 Arm64 ISO
Open Microsoft’s Arm64 download page, choose the offered edition and language, and follow its current instructions. Check the download using the verification information provided there. The download does not give you a new Windows licence.
Check the driver requirements before making the USB
Microsoft’s Arm ISO guide distinguishes Snapdragon X Series devices from older Snapdragon models. X Series hardware can boot the ISO without adding manufacturer drivers first, but it still needs remaining drivers for full operation. Older models can require drivers to be added to the installation image before it will boot.
Follow your laptop maker’s media and boot-menu instructions. If you cannot find a supported clean-install route, use its recovery image instead of guessing at drivers from a different model.
Install, then check the whole laptop
- Create the Arm64 USB using a method supported for your device.
- Connect power and boot from the USB using the manufacturer’s boot-menu steps.
- Choose the correct Windows edition. Only delete partitions when you understand what they contain and have a working backup.
- Complete Setup, connect to the internet and install Windows Update and manufacturer driver updates.
- Test Wi-Fi, sound, touchpad, display, sleep and any accessories. Check activation and restore your files.
Windows on Arm can run many apps through emulation, but drivers must support Arm. Microsoft’s Arm PC FAQ covers those limits. If an app fails afterward, start with our Windows program launch checks.
Updated October 15, 2026. Reviewed using the sources linked in this guide.