How to Install Windows on Mac Using Boot Camp

Install Windows on your Mac with Boot Camp Assistant. Complete step-by-step guide for dual-boot setup on Intel and Apple Silicon Macs.

1. Check Mac compatibility and requirements. Verify your Mac supports Windows installation. Intel Macs from 2012 or later support Boot Camp. Apple Silicon Macs (M1/M2) require Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion instead. Ensure you have at least 64GB of free storage and a Windows 10 or 11 ISO file.
2. Launch Boot Camp Assistant. Open Applications > Utilities > Boot Camp Assistant. Click Continue on the introduction screen. The assistant will check your system and display available options for your Mac model.
3. Select the Windows ISO file. Click Choose when prompted to select your Windows ISO file. Navigate to the downloaded Windows installation file and select it. Boot Camp Assistant will verify the ISO and prepare for installation.
4. Partition your drive. Drag the divider to allocate space between macOS and Windows. Windows requires minimum 64GB but 128GB or more is recommended for practical use. Click Install to begin partitioning your drive.
5. Install Windows. Your Mac will restart and boot from the Windows installer. Select your language and region preferences. When prompted for installation location, choose the BOOTCAMP partition and click Format. Complete the Windows setup process with your preferred settings.
6. Install Boot Camp drivers. After Windows boots for the first time, insert the USB drive created by Boot Camp Assistant or download Boot Camp drivers from Apple's support website. Run the Boot Camp installer to install Mac-specific drivers for trackpad, keyboard, Wi-Fi, and other hardware.
7. Configure startup disk preferences. Restart your Mac and hold Option key to access the startup manager. Choose your preferred operating system. To set a default startup disk, go to System Preferences > Startup Disk in macOS or Boot Camp Control Panel in Windows.