Windows 10 version 1903, April 2019 Update, upgrade process

How to upgrade to Windows 10 version 1903, May 2019 Update

VIDEO: Use these steps to upgrade to Windows 10 version 1903 if your computer isn't getting the update automatically once available.

Windows 10 version 1903, May 2019 Update, is available starting May 21, 2019, and even though the best method to upgrade is to wait until you get the notification to download it through Windows Update, you can upgrade manually as soon as it’s available — in this video tutorial, you’ll learn the steps on how to do this.

To upgrade to the May 2019 Update skipping the queue, you can use the Microsoft 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.

Important: These instructions will work whether you’re trying to upgrade from version 1809 to 1903, or from any other old version, back to the original release (such as 1803, 1709, 1703, 1607, 1511, or 1507).

How to upgrade to the Windows 10 May 2019 Update

If you can’t wait to get the May 2019 Update automatically, you can use the Media Creation Tool. Alongside the video tutorial, here are also the written steps to perform the upgrade:

  1. Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft. (Use the Download tool now option.)

  2. Double-click the MediaCreationTool1903.exe file to launch the tool.

  3. Select the Upgrade this PC now option.

  4. Click the Accept button to agree to the licensing terms.

  5. Click the Accept button again.

  6. Select the option to keep your files and apps (if it’s not already selected).

  7. 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 upgrade your computer to the May 2019 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 May 2019 Update, you can use these instructions.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, 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.