UPDATED 11/13: Windows 10 version 1809 (October 2018 Update) is available starting October 13, and while the best method to upgrade is to wait until you get it through Windows Update automatically, you can upgrade manually as soon as it’s available, and in this video tutorial, you’ll learn how to do it.
To upgrade to the October 2018 Update skipping the queue, you can use the Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade, which is virtually the same as using Windows Update or Update Assistant, and during the process, your files, apps, and settings will not be affected.
How to upgrade to the Windows 10 October 2018 Update
If you can’t wait to automatically get the October 2018 Update, you can use the Media Creation Tool. Alongside the video tutorial, here are also the written steps to upgrade:
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Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft. (Use the Download tool now option.)
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Double-click the MediaCrationToolxxxx.exe file to launch the tool.
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Select the Upgrade this PC now option.
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Click the Accept button to agree to the licensing terms.
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Click the Accept button again.
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Select the option to keep your files and apps (if it’s not already selected).
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Click the Install button.
If you’re looking to upgrade as quickly as possible, or your device is having problems getting the update automatically, this hands-on video outlines the steps to properly upgrade your system to the October 2018 Update. You can also check these tips to avoid common problems during the installation process of Windows 10.
If you want to start with a fresh copy of Windows 10 with the October 2018 Update, you can use these instructions.
Update November 13, 2018: The October 2018 Update was originally released on October 2, but due to serious problems with the operating system, Microsoft was forced to pause the rollout, and starting November 13, the update is once again available for download.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows expert and the Editor-in-Chief who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He is also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 12 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows, software, and related technologies, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me.