How To Install Windows 10
How to Install Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide. Installing Windows 10 is a straightforward process, whether you’re upgrading from an older version or performing a clean installation. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from preparing your computer to completing the installation successfully.
1. System Requirements for Windows 10
Before installing Windows 10, make sure your PC meets the minimum system requirements:
| Component | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1 GHz or faster processor |
| RAM | 1 GB (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit) |
| Storage | 16 GB (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit) |
| Graphics | DirectX 9 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver |
| Display | 800×600 resolution |
| Internet | Required for activation and updates |
For the best performance, at least 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage are recommended.
2. Prepare for Installation
Back Up Your Data
Before proceeding, back up your important files to OneDrive, an external drive, or a USB device.
Create a Bootable USB Drive
If you’re doing a fresh install, you’ll need a bootable USB drive with the Windows 10 installation files.
Steps to Create a Bootable USB Drive:
- Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from the official Microsoft website: Download Here
- Open the tool and select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file)”.
- Choose your preferred language, edition, and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
- Select USB flash drive as the media type and insert a USB drive (at least 8GB).
Follow the prompts to create the bootable USB.
3. Installing Windows 10
Now, let’s install Windows 10 on your PC.
A. Installing from a Bootable USB (Fresh Install)
If you’re installing on a new PC or doing a clean install, follow these steps:
- Insert the bootable USB drive into your computer.
- Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, F12, DEL, or ESC during startup).
- Change the boot order so that your USB drive is the first boot device.
- Save the changes and exit the BIOS.
- The Windows 10 setup should now start. Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click Next.
- Click Install Now and choose “I don’t have a product key” if you plan to activate Windows later.
- Select “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” to perform a clean installation.
- Delete old partitions (if necessary) and select your hard drive as the installation location.
- Click Next, and Windows will begin installing. This process may take 10–30 minutes.
B. Upgrading to Windows 10 from Windows 7 or 8
If you’re upgrading from an older version, follow these steps:
- Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft.
- Open the tool and select “Upgrade this PC now”.
- Follow the instructions to install Windows 10 without losing your files.
4. Completing the Windows 10 Setup
After installation, your PC will restart multiple times. Follow these steps:
- Choose your region and keyboard layout.
- Connect to WiFi (if available).
- Sign in with a Microsoft account or create a local account.
- Set up privacy settings and click Next.
Windows will finalize settings and take you to the desktop.
5. Install Drivers and Updates
To ensure your system runs smoothly:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to install updates.
- Check Device Manager (right-click Start > Device Manager) to install missing drivers.
- Download essential apps like Chrome, Office, or antivirus software.
6. Activating Windows 10
To activate Windows:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
- Enter a valid product key or link your Microsoft account if you upgraded from Windows 7 or 8.
Installing Windows 10 is a simple process when done correctly. Whether upgrading or performing a clean installation, ensure you back up data, use a bootable USB, and install necessary drivers afterward.