How to Repair Windows 10 Using a Windows 10 ISO File: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your Windows 10 system is experiencing issues, such as crashes, freezes, or other problems, you may need to perform a repair install. One effective way to do this is by using a Windows 10 ISO file. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of repairing your Windows 10 installation using an ISO file, ensuring a smooth and efficient troubleshooting experience.

Preparing for the Repair Install

Before you begin the repair install process, it’s essential to take a few preparatory steps:

Back up your data: Ensure that all your important files, documents, and personal data are backed up to an external hard drive or cloud storage service. This will protect your information in case any issues arise during the repair process.
Disable antivirus software: Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus software you have installed, as it may interfere with the repair install process. You can re-enable it after the repair is complete.
Download the Windows 10 ISO file: Visit the official Microsoft website and download the latest Windows 10 ISO file. Make sure to select the correct version and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) that matches your current Windows 10 installation.

Creating a Bootable USB Drive or DVD

Once you have the Windows 10 ISO file, you need to create a bootable USB drive or DVD to use for the repair install. Here’s how:

Mount the ISO file: Right-click on the downloaded ISO file and select “Mount” from the context menu. This will make the ISO file appear as a virtual drive in File Explorer.
Open the virtual drive: Double-click on the mounted ISO file to open it in File Explorer.
Copy the contents: Select all the files and folders inside the virtual drive and copy them to your USB drive or DVD.
Make the drive bootable: If you’re using a USB drive, you may need to use a tool like Rufus or Windows To Go to make it bootable. If you’re using a DVD, you can burn the ISO file directly to the disc using a burning software.

Booting from the Bootable Media

Once you have the bootable USB drive or DVD ready, follow these steps to boot from it:

Insert the bootable media: Insert the USB drive or DVD into your computer.
Enter the BIOS or UEFI settings: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings. This is usually done by pressing a specific key during the boot process, such as F2, F12, or Del.
Change the boot order: In the BIOS or UEFI settings, navigate to the boot order or boot priority section. Set the bootable media (USB drive or DVD) as the first boot device.
Save changes and exit: Save the changes you made in the BIOS or UEFI settings and exit. Your computer will now boot from the bootable media.

Performing the Repair Install

Once your computer has booted from the bootable media, follow these steps to perform the repair install:

Choose your language: Select your preferred language, time and currency format, and keyboard or input method.
Click “Repair your computer”: Instead of clicking “Install now,” click on the “Repair your computer” link at the bottom of the screen.
Choose “Troubleshoot”: In the “Choose an option” screen, select “Troubleshoot.”
Select “Advanced options”: In the “Troubleshoot” screen, click on “Advanced options.”
Choose “Startup Repair”: In the “Advanced options” screen, select “Startup Repair.” This will scan and attempt to fix any startup issues on your system.
Wait for the repair process: The Startup Repair process will run and attempt to fix any issues it finds. This may take some time, so be patient.
Restart your computer: Once the repair process is complete, restart your computer. Your system should now boot normally, with any startup issues resolved.

If the Startup Repair process doesn’t resolve the issues you’re experiencing, you can try other advanced troubleshooting options available in the “Advanced options” screen, such as System Restore, System Image Recovery, or Command Prompt.

By following these steps, you can effectively repair your Windows 10 installation using a Windows 10 ISO file. This process can help resolve various issues, such as crashes, freezes, and startup problems, without the need for a clean install or data loss.