Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, it’s important to note that reinstalling Windows 10 will erase all data on your computer’s primary hard drive or SSD. Be sure to back up any important files, documents, or personal data before proceeding with the installation.
Creating a Bootable Windows 10 USB Drive
To begin, you’ll need to create a bootable USB drive with the Windows 10 installation files. Here’s how to do it:
Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from the official Microsoft website.
Run the Media Creation Tool and select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC.”
Choose the language, edition, and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) of Windows 10 that matches your current installation or the one you want to install.
Select “USB flash drive” as the media to use and follow the on-screen instructions to create the bootable USB drive.
Once the process is complete, you’ll have a USB drive that contains the necessary files to reinstall Windows 10.
Entering the BIOS and Changing the Boot Order
Next, you’ll need to enter your computer’s BIOS and change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive. Here’s how to do it:
Insert the bootable Windows 10 USB drive into an available USB port on your computer.
Turn on or restart your computer and watch for the manufacturer’s logo or a message indicating which key to press to enter the BIOS.
Press the specified key (often F2, F12, Delete, or Esc) to enter the BIOS.
Navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Order” section of the BIOS using the arrow keys or menu options.
Move the USB drive to the top of the boot order list, ensuring it’s the first device your computer will attempt to boot from.
Save the changes and exit the BIOS. Your computer should now be set to boot from the USB drive.
Booting from the USB Drive and Installing Windows 10
With the boot order set, your computer should now boot from the USB drive and begin the Windows 10 installation process. Here’s what to expect:
Your computer will boot from the USB drive, and you’ll see the Windows 10 installation screen.
Follow the on-screen instructions to select your language, time and currency format, and keyboard or input method.
Click “Install now” to begin the installation process.
Enter your Windows 10 product key or select “I don’t have a product key” if you’re using a digital license.
Choose the edition of Windows 10 you want to install and click “Next.”
Read and accept the license terms, then click “Next.”
Select “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” as the installation type.
Choose the drive where you want to install Windows 10 (typically the primary hard drive or SSD) and click “Next.”
The installation process will begin, and your computer will restart several times during the process.
Once the installation is complete, you’ll be prompted to set up your user account and personalize your Windows 10 settings.
After the installation is finished, your computer will boot into the fresh installation of Windows 10. Remember to install any necessary drivers, update Windows, and restore your backed-up data to complete the process.