Install Windows 10 using a USB Drive
Note: If you're looking to upgrade from a previous operating system, select "Upgrade this PC now" in Step 4.
STEP 1: Download Windows 10
Click the button below to be redirected to Microsoft's official download page. Once there, click "Download Now" to begin downloading the Windows 10 installation media creation tool.
Step 2: Open the Tool
Once the file has finished downloading to your computer, find it, right-click, and select "Open" to launch the tool and begin the installation process.
Step 3: Accept the License Conditions
To continue with the installation process, click "Accept" to agree to the terms and conditions outlined by the tool. This will allow you to proceed to the next step in the setup.
Step 4: Create Installation Media
Choose the "Create Installation Media" option, then click "Next" to proceed with setting up your bootable USB drive.
Step 5: Choose Language
Select your preferred language, edition, and system architecture. For most users, the recommended settings are English for the language, Windows 10 for the edition, and 64-bit (x64) for the architecture. Once you’ve made your selections, click "Next" to continue.
Step 6: Installation File on USB Flash Drive
Choose the option to create the Windows 10 installation file on your USB flash drive. Once selected, click "Next" to begin the process of copying the necessary files onto your USB drive, making it ready for installation.
Step 7: Select USB Drive
You'll see a list of available devices, including your USB flash drive. Choose your USB stick from the list and click "Next" to proceed with the installation media creation.
Important: Remember that any files currently on your USB drive will be erased during this process. Be sure to back up any important data beforehand to avoid losing anything valuable.
Step 8: Wait for the Download
The tool will now begin downloading Windows 10 onto your USB drive. This process may take a while, so please be patient and allow it to complete.
Step 9: Complete
Your USB flash drive is now ready for the Windows 10 installation. Click "Finish" to close the tool and proceed with the next steps in the installation process.
Installation - Connect USB Drive to PC
You’re now set to install Windows 10 on your computer. Insert the prepared USB flash drive into your PC and follow these steps to complete the installation process.
Step 1: Turn Off the Computer and Connect the USB Drive
Start by powering down your computer. Insert the USB drive into a USB port, then turn the computer back on.
If the installation doesn't start automatically, you may need to manually boot from the USB drive:
- Immediately press a specific key like ESC, DELETE, F2, F10, F11, or F12 after powering on, to enter BIOS settings.
- In BIOS, set the USB drive as the primary boot device under Boot Priority or Boot Order.
- Save and exit BIOS to restart your computer.
If unsure about the BIOS key, consult your computer's manual or manufacturer for guidance.
Step 2: Choose Language, Time, and Currency Format
Now, select your preferred language, time and currency format, and keyboard layout for Windows 10. After making your selections, click "Next," and then click "Install Now" to proceed with the installation.
Step 3: Begin Installation
Step 4: Enter the Product Key
When prompted, input the product key you received via email. Once you've entered the key, click "Next" to continue with the installation.
Step 5: Choose Your Operating System
Select the operating system that matches the product key you purchased, either Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro. Click "Next" to proceed.
If the option to choose between Home or Pro isn't available, it may be due to your previous OS version. Don't worry; you'll still be able to activate your license key once the installation is complete.
Step 6: Choose Installation
Select the type of installation you wish to perform. For a fresh installation on your computer, choose the option "Custom: Install Windows only (Advanced)." This option allows you to install a clean version of Windows without retaining any existing files or settings.
Step 7: Choose Hard Drive
Select an empty hard drive where you want to install Windows 10 and click "Next" to begin the installation.
If the hard drive isn't empty, you can choose the drive and use the "Delete" or "Format" options to clear it. Afterward, select the drive again and click "Next" to proceed with the installation.
Finished!
The installation wizard will now begin transferring Windows files to your computer. The time required for this process will vary depending on your hardware.
Once the installation is complete, your computer will automatically reboot. In rare cases, your system might get stuck in a boot loop, trying to restart the installation. If this happens, simply remove the USB drive and restart your computer to proceed with the setup.