Before you get started with the installation make sure you have:
- An internet connection (internet service provider fees may apply)
- Sufficient data storage available on your computer, USB or external drive for the download
- A blank USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of space if you want to create media. We recommend using a blank USB, because any content on it will be deleted
Next, check a few things on the PC where you want to install Windows 10:
- 64-bit or 32-bit processor (CPU)? You’ll create either a 64-bit or 32-bit version of Windows 10. To check this on your PC, go to PC info in PC settings or System in Control Panel, and look for System type
- System requirements. Make sure the PC meets the system requirements for Windows 10. We also recommend going to the PC manufacturer's website for additional info about updated drivers and hardware compatibility
- Language in Windows. You'll need to choose the same language when you install Windows 10. To see what language you're currently using, go to Time and language in PC settings or Region in Control Panel
- Edition of Windows. You should also choose the same edition of Windows. To check what edition you're currently running, go to PC info in PC settings or System in Control Panel, and look for Windows edition. Windows 10 Enterprise isn’t available in the media creation tool
1. Backing up your data
Before installing Windows 10, we recommend that you save all your work and make a backup of your PC. Please note that everything on your PC and hard drive will be erased.
What you need: an external hard drive or network drive.
- Right-click on the Start menu and select Settings.
- Go to 'Updates and Security'.
- Click on Backup in the list on the left.
- Connect the external hard disk and click on 'Add a drive'.
- Select the hard disk you wish to use.
- Click on 'More options'.
- Click on 'Back up now' and wait for it to complete.
2. Creating the installation media
- Download the Windows media creation tool here, save the .exe file and run it from your Downloads folder.
- If you agree to the licence terms, select Accept.
- Select Create installation media for another PC and then select Next.
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Select the language, edition and architecture (64-bit or 32-bit) for Windows 10.
- Select the following media:
- USB flash drive. Attach a blank USB flash drive with at least 8GB of space. Any content on the flash drive will be deleted.
- After the installation media is created, follow the steps below to use it.
3. Using the installation media to install Windows 10
- Plug in the USB flash drive on which you want to install Windows 10.
- Restart your PC.
If your PC does not automatically boot to the USB, you might have to open a boot menu or change the boot order in your PC's BIOS or UEFI settings. To open a boot menu or change the boot order, you'll typically need to press a key (such as F2, F12, Delete, or Esc) immediately after you turn on your PC. For instructions on accessing the boot menu or changing the boot order for your PC, check the documentation that came with your PC or go to the manufacturer's website. If you do not see the USB listed within the boot options, you may need to reach out to the PC manufacturer for instructions for temporarily disabling Secure Boot in your BIOS settings.
If changing the boot menu or order doesn't work, and your PC immediately boots into the OS you want to replace, it is possible the PC had not fully shut down. To ensure the PC fully shuts down, select the power button on the sign-in screen or on the Start menu and select Shut down.
- On the Install Windows page, select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, and then select Next.
- Select Install Windows.
After completing the steps to install Windows 10, please check that you have all the necessary device drivers installed. To check for updates now, select the Start button, and then go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and select Check for updates. You may also wish to visit your device manufacturer’s support site for any additional drivers that may be needed.