Installing Windows 10 from a USB on a New PC
Wondering how to install Windows 10 from a USB on a new PC? It’s easier than it sounds. First, you’ll need a bootable USB drive with the Windows 10 installation files. Then, plug this USB into your new PC, power it on, and follow the on-screen instructions. In a few steps, you’ll have a new operating system ready to go!
How to Install Windows 10 from USB on New PC
This guide will walk you through the steps to get Windows 10 up and running on your new PC. From creating a bootable USB to installing the OS, we’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Create a Bootable USB Drive
You’ll need to create a bootable USB drive with the Windows 10 installation files.
To do this, download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website and follow the prompts to create your USB.
Step 2: Insert the USB Drive into Your New PC
Once your USB drive is ready, insert it into your new PC.
Make sure your PC is turned off before inserting the USB. This ensures that the system recognizes the bootable drive when you power it on.
Step 3: Power On and Enter BIOS/UEFI
Turn on your PC and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings by pressing the appropriate key (usually F2, F12, Delete, or Esc).
This key varies by manufacturer, so check your PC’s manual if you’re unsure. The BIOS/UEFI screen allows you to set the USB drive as the primary boot device.
Step 4: Set USB as Primary Boot Device
In BIOS/UEFI, navigate to the boot order settings and set the USB drive as the primary boot device.
This step ensures that your PC will boot from the USB drive instead of the hard drive, starting the Windows 10 installation process.
Step 5: Save Settings and Restart
Save your changes in BIOS/UEFI and restart your PC.
When your PC restarts, it should boot from the USB drive and bring up the Windows 10 installation screen.
Step 6: Follow On-Screen Instructions
On the installation screen, select your language, time, and keyboard preferences. Click "Next" and then "Install Now."
You’ll need your Windows 10 product key for this step. If you don’t have one, you can skip it and enter it later.
Step 7: Choose Installation Type
Select "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)" for a fresh install on your new PC.
This option ensures a clean installation of Windows 10 without any leftover files or settings from previous installations.
Step 8: Select Partition
Choose the partition where you want to install Windows 10. Click "Next" to start the installation.
If your hard drive is new, you may need to create a new partition.
Step 9: Complete Installation
Windows 10 will now install itself on your PC. This may take some time, so be patient!
Your PC may restart several times during this process. Just let it do its thing.
Once installed, Windows 10 will guide you through the initial setup, including setting up your user account and preferences.
Tips for Installing Windows 10 from USB on New PC
- Backup Important Data: Always back up any important data before starting the installation process.
- Use a High-Speed USB Drive: A USB 3.0 drive will speed up the installation process significantly.
- Keep Your Product Key Handy: You’ll need your Windows 10 product key during installation.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 10.
- Internet Connection: Having an internet connection can help download the latest updates during installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my PC doesn’t recognize the USB drive?
Ensure that the USB drive is properly formatted and that the BIOS/UEFI settings are correctly configured.
Do I need a product key to install Windows 10?
You can skip entering the product key during installation, but you’ll need it to activate Windows later.
Can I use any USB drive?
It’s best to use a USB drive with at least 8GB of storage and USB 3.0 for faster transfer speeds.
How long does the installation take?
The installation process can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on your PC’s hardware.
What should I do if the installation fails?
Check for any error messages and try to troubleshoot based on the error code. You may need to recreate the bootable USB drive.
Summary
- Create a bootable USB drive.
- Insert the USB drive into your new PC.
- Power on and enter BIOS/UEFI.
- Set USB as the primary boot device.
- Save settings and restart.
- Follow on-screen instructions.
- Choose installation type.
- Select partition.
- Complete installation.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to install Windows 10 from a USB on a new PC. This process might seem a bit daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s as straightforward as pie. Remember to keep your BIOS/UEFI settings handy and always back up your important data before diving into the installation process.
If you found this guide helpful, consider bookmarking it for future reference or sharing it with friends who might need a hand. For further reading, check out Microsoft’s official installation guide or join online forums for additional tips and tricks. Happy computing, and welcome to the world of Windows 10!
Matthew Burleigh is the head writer at solveyourtech.com, where he covers topics like the iPhone, Microsoft Office, and Google apps. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over 15 years of IT experience.
He has been writing online since 2008 and has published thousands of articles that have been read millions of times.