Windows 10 2004 upgrade process

How to upgrade to Windows 10 version 2004, May 2020 Update

VIDEO: Use these steps to upgrade to the Windows 10 May 2020 Update, version 2004, if your device isn't getting the update automatically after it becomes available.

Windows 10 version 2004, May 2020 Update, is available starting on May 27, 2020, and while the best way to upgrade is to wait until you get the notification to download 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.

If you’re having problems upgrading through Windows Update or you don’t want to wait, you can use the Microsoft Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade of Windows 10 version 2004, which is similar to 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 1909 to 2004, or from any other older version, back to the original release (such as 1903, 1809, 1803, 1709, 1703, 1607, 1511, or 1507).

How to upgrade to Windows 10 May 2020 Update

If you can’t wait to get the May 2020 Update automatically, you can use the Media Creation Tool. Alongside the video tutorial, here are also the written steps to perform the upgrade:

  1. Open Media Creation Tool page.

  2. Click the Download tool now button.

  3. Double-click the MediaCreationTool2004.exe file to launch the tool.

  4. Select the Upgrade this PC now option.

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

  6. Click the Accept button again.

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

  8. 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 Windows 10 version 2004. You can also check these tips to avoid common problems during the installation process of Windows 10.

In the case that you want to start with a fresh copy of Windows 10 with the May 2020 Update, you can use these instructions.

If you’re still wondering whether to install the new version, you should read this before proceeding with the upgrade.

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.