Installing Windows 10 from a USB drive might sound complicated, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. You’ll need a USB drive with at least 8 GB of space, a working computer to create the bootable USB, and the Windows 10 media creation tool. Once you’ve got those, you’ll create the bootable USB, restart the computer you want to install Windows on, and follow the on-screen instructions.
How to Install Windows 10 from USB
In this section, we’ll go through the steps to create a bootable USB drive and use it to install Windows 10 on your computer.
Step 1: Get a USB Drive
You’ll need a USB drive with at least 8 GB of space.
Make sure the USB drive is empty or that you’ve backed up any files on it, as the process will erase everything on the drive.
Step 2: Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool
Go to the official Microsoft website and download the Media Creation Tool.
This tool will help you create a bootable USB drive with the Windows 10 installation files.
Step 3: Run the Media Creation Tool
Open the tool and select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC.”
Follow the on-screen instructions, and when prompted, choose the USB drive as the destination.
Step 4: Insert the USB into the PC You Want to Install Windows On
Turn off the computer you want to install Windows 10 on and insert the USB drive.
This will be the computer that gets the fresh Windows 10 installation.
Step 5: Boot from the USB Drive
Restart the computer and press the necessary key (usually F12, F2, ESC, or DEL) to enter the boot menu.
Select the USB drive from the list to boot from it.
Step 6: Follow the Windows 10 Installation Wizard
Once the computer boots from the USB, the Windows 10 installation wizard will start.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10, choosing your language, time, and keyboard settings.
Step 7: Choose Installation Type
Select “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” if you want a fresh installation.
This option will allow you to format the hard drive and install Windows 10 from scratch.
Step 8: Complete the Installation
The installation process will then begin and may take some time.
Your computer will restart several times during the process, and eventually, you’ll be greeted with the Windows 10 setup screen.
Once you’ve completed all these steps, your computer will have a fresh installation of Windows 10. You’ll need to go through some initial setup steps, like setting up your user account and preferences.
Tips for How to Install Windows 10 from USB
- Backup Important Data: Before starting, make sure to back up any important files from your computer, as installing Windows will erase everything on the drive.
- Check System Requirements: Ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 10 to avoid any installation issues.
- Stable Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is useful for downloading updates and drivers during and after installation.
- Know Your Product Key: If you’re reinstalling Windows 10, have your product key handy, although often Windows 10 will activate itself if it was previously installed.
- Prepare Drivers: Have a USB drive with essential drivers ready, especially network drivers, in case Windows 10 doesn’t automatically install them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my computer won’t boot from the USB?
Make sure you’ve correctly entered the boot menu and selected the USB drive. Also, check that the USB drive was properly created with the Media Creation Tool.
Can I use a USB drive smaller than 8 GB?
No, the installation files for Windows 10 require at least 8 GB of space.
Do I need a product key to install Windows 10?
You can install Windows 10 without a product key, but you’ll need one to activate it later.
Is an internet connection required to install Windows 10 from a USB?
An internet connection isn’t required for the initial installation, but it is recommended for downloading updates and drivers afterward.
How long does the installation process take?
The installation time can vary but generally takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on your computer’s hardware.
Summary
- Get a USB drive.
- Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.
- Run the Media Creation Tool.
- Insert the USB into the target PC.
- Boot from the USB drive.
- Follow the Windows 10 installation wizard.
- Choose installation type.
- Complete the installation.
Conclusion
Installing Windows 10 from a USB is a straightforward process that can breathe new life into your computer. It might seem a bit daunting at first, but by following the steps outlined above, you can have a fresh installation of Windows 10 up and running in no time.
Remember to back up your important files before you start, and keep your product key handy. If you run into any issues, the frequently asked questions section should help troubleshoot common problems.
By taking your time and following these steps, you’ll be able to tackle the installation process with confidence. Don’t forget, a fresh installation can make your computer feel like new again, improving performance and resolving old issues. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.