To Install Windows 10 on your computer; you will need a blank USB flash drive with at least 16 GB of storage space. A larger storage capacity is recommended for this project. You can check how much free space you have on your USB by clicking on This PC in the left pane of File Explorer and checking the Size column next to the device.
Windows 10 is designed to work across all computers. If your current device runs Windows 7 or Windows 8/8.1, the upgrade is free.
How to install Windows 10
To start the process, you’ll need to download these installation files. It would help if you used a fast internet connection because it can take up to four hours to complete.
Preparing your installation files
1. Insert your 8 GB or larger USB drive. It doesn’t need to be blank, but note that it will erase any content on the drive during the setup.
2. Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website. It will download as an executable file called “MediaCreationTool.exe.” Once completed, run this program.
3. Select the language, product type (64-bit or 32-bit), and Edition to be installed (“Windows 10 Home” or “Windows 10 Pro”) when prompted.
4. To create installation media, select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC” and choose Next.
5. Use the default settings on the next page to pick the USB drive you inserted earlier (if it doesn’t appear in the list, click “Browse”) and finish the process. The tool will begin downloading Windows 10 to your computer; this can take up to four hours, depending on internet connection speed.
Installing the files
1. You’ll need to change the boot order so that the PC will recognize the USB drive. Start the computer and press the correct key to launch the UEFI or BIOS controls at startup. This is usually done by pressing F1, F2, Escape or Delete as it starts.
2. Go through the menus to locate the boot control section, usually found in a subsection of Advanced options.
3. Change the boot order so that the USB storage device has priority or first place before your hard drive or solid-state drive. Save, exit, and restart your computer from the UEFI/BIOS page if prompted.
4. When Windows 10 starts, follow all on-screen instructions. They will guide you on how to format and create partitions for the installation of Windows 10 on your hard disk drive.
5. When Windows setup prompts you to select where to install, select “This is my main PC” unless you have another PC that needs an operating system.
6. It’s also advisable to remove any external media at this time, such as a flash disc or disc drive that’s connected to your PC.
7. When it’s time for a product key, do not enter one if you are using the Home version of Windows 10. The Pro version requires a product key.
As you go through the installation, don’t worry if your computer appears to be stuck at any point. This doesn’t mean anything is wrong; it’s just loading the next setup stage for Windows 10 to take over completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a USB to install Windows 10?
Yes. You can use a flash drive with at least 8GB of space to install the OS.
Can I upgrade from Windows 8?
Yes, you can do an in-place upgrade from Windows 8 to Windows 10. The system requirements are listed on Microsoft’s website, and it will work with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 8.1 Pro, Home, and Enterprise.
How do I force a USB drive to install Windows 10?
If you have a USB drive with at least 8GB of space, right-click on the partition and select Format. A window will open where you can change the file system to NTFS.
How do I install Windows 10 from a USB flash drive step by step for free activation?
You can use the MediaCreationTool.exe to download Windows 10 to a flash drive and activate it for free. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Download and open the Media Creation Tool
2. Select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC” and click “Next”
3. Select your language, product type (64-bit or 32-bit), and Edition of Windows 10 to be installed (“Windows 10 Home” or “Windows 10 Pro”) when prompted.
4. To create installation media, select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC” and choose Next.
5. Use the default settings on the next page to pick the USB drive you inserted earlier (if it doesn’t appear in the list, click “Browse”) and finish the process. The tool will begin downloading Windows 10 to your computer; this can take up to four hours, depending on internet connection speed.
Is upgrading from a 32-bit to a 64-bit edition of Windows allowed?
Yes, you can upgrade from a 32-bit to a 64-bit edition of Windows 10 for free. You may need to reinstall third-party applications and drivers after the upgrade is complete, though.
