MS Guides
How to Install Windows 10 From USB (Pictures Tutorial)
How to Install Windows 10 With a USB drive is a straightforward process that allows you to upgrade or reinstall your operating system quickly and efficiently. Whether you're setting up a new PC or fixing issues on an existing one, following these steps will guide you through the installation process with clear visual aids.
Preparation: What You'll Need
Before you begin, gather the following:
USB Drive: 8GB or larger, formatted and ready to be used.
Windows 10 ISO File: Downloaded from Microsoft's official website.
PC: The computer on which you want to install Windows 10.
Backup: Ensure important data is backed up as the installation will erase existing files.
Step 1: Download the Windows 10 ISO File
Visit the Microsoft website and navigate to the Windows 10 download page.
Select the edition and language that best fits your needs and click "Confirm."
Choose between 32-bit and 64-bit versions and click "Download."
Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive
Insert your USB drive into a port on your computer.
Download and run the Windows USB/DVD Download Tool or use alternative software like Rufus.
Follow the tool's prompts to select the Windows 10 ISO file and the USB drive as the installation media.
Start the process. This will format the USB drive and make it bootable.
Step 3: Configure Your BIOS/UEFI Settings
Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI setup (usually by pressing a key like F2, F12, Delete, or Esc during startup).
Navigate to the Boot menu and set the USB drive as the primary boot device.
Save changes and exit. Your computer will restart.
Step 4: Begin Windows 10 Installation
Once the computer restarts, it will boot from the USB drive.
Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the Windows 10 installation process.
Choose your language, time and currency format, and keyboard or input method when prompted.
Click "Install Now" to proceed.
Step 5: Enter Your Product Key and Select the Edition
Enter your Windows 10 product key if prompted. If you don't have one, you can skip this step for now.
Select the edition of Windows 10 you want to install. Most users will choose "Windows 10 Home" or "Windows 10 Pro."
Step 6: Install Windows 10
Read and accept the license terms.
Choose the installation type: "Upgrade" to keep files and settings, or "Custom" to perform a clean installation.
Select the partition where you want to install Windows 10 and click "Next" to begin the installation.
Step 7: Complete the Installation
Your computer will restart several times during the installation process.
Follow the prompts to personalize your settings, including creating a user account and choosing privacy settings.
Once setup is complete, you'll see the Windows 10 desktop.
Step 8: Install Drivers and Updates
After installation, make sure to install any necessary drivers for your hardware.
Check for Windows updates to ensure your system is up to date with the latest security patches and features.
Conclusion
Installing Windows 10 from a USB drive is an essential skill for any PC user. By following these steps and using the provided visual aids, you can confidently install or reinstall Windows 10 on your computer. Remember to back up important data before starting and ensure your system meets the minimum requirements for Windows 10. With these instructions, you're ready to enjoy the latest features and improvements offered by Microsoft's operating system.