Installing Windows 10 from a USB using the Command Prompt might sound complex, but it’s a relatively straightforward process once you get the hang of it. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to complete the installation, ensuring your computer gets a fresh start with a new operating system.
How to Install Windows 10 from USB using Command Prompt
The following steps will help you install Windows 10 from a USB drive using the Command Prompt. This method bypasses the traditional graphical installation interface, giving you more control over the installation process.
Step 1: Create a Bootable USB Drive
First, create a bootable USB drive using the Media Creation Tool or another utility.
Make sure your USB drive has enough storage space (at least 8 GB) and is properly formatted. This bootable drive will contain the Windows 10 installation files.
Step 2: Insert the USB Drive and Restart Your Computer
Next, insert the bootable USB drive into your computer and restart it.
As your computer starts up, press the key that opens the boot menu (usually F12, ESC, or DEL, depending on your computer’s make and model). This will allow you to boot from the USB drive instead of the internal hard drive.
Step 3: Open Command Prompt from the Boot Menu
Once you’ve booted from the USB drive, open the Command Prompt from the boot menu.
Typically, you’ll find an option to "Repair your computer" on the installation screen. From there, navigate to "Troubleshoot" and then "Command Prompt."
Step 4: Use Diskpart to Prepare the Target Drive
In Command Prompt, type diskpart and press Enter to open the Diskpart utility.
Diskpart is a powerful tool for managing disks and partitions. It will help you prepare the drive where Windows 10 will be installed.
Step 5: List and Select the Disk
Type list disk to see all connected disks, then select disk X (replace X with the disk number) to choose the target drive.
This step is crucial to ensure you’re working on the correct disk. Double-check the disk size to avoid selecting the wrong one.
Step 6: Clean the Selected Disk
Type clean and press Enter to erase all data on the selected disk.
This command will wipe the disk clean, so make sure you’ve backed up any important data before proceeding.
Step 7: Create a New Partition
Type create partition primary to create a new primary partition on the cleaned disk.
This partition will be used for the Windows 10 installation. After creating it, type format fs=ntfs quick to format it as NTFS.
Step 8: Assign a Drive Letter
Type assign letter=X to assign a drive letter to the new partition (replace X with a letter not currently in use).
This step makes the partition accessible for the installation files. Note the drive letter for the next steps.
Step 9: Exit Diskpart and Begin Installation
Type exit to leave Diskpart, then navigate to the Windows 10 installation files on the USB drive using the assigned letter.
For example, X:setup.exe (replace X with the USB drive letter). Running this command will start the Windows 10 installation process.
Once you’ve completed these steps, Windows 10 will begin installing on your computer. Follow the on-screen prompts to configure your settings.
Tips for Installing Windows 10 from USB using Command Prompt
- Make sure your USB drive is at least 8 GB.
- Backup your data before using the
cleancommand. - Use a reliable USB creation tool like the Media Creation Tool.
- Verify the drive letters to avoid mistakes.
- Double-check your BIOS settings for USB boot support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bootable USB drive?
A bootable USB drive contains the necessary files to install an operating system. It allows your computer to boot directly from the USB instead of the hard drive.
Why use Command Prompt for installing Windows 10?
Using Command Prompt gives you more control over the installation process and can troubleshoot issues that the graphical interface might not handle well.
Can I use any USB drive for installation?
Yes, but it must have at least 8 GB of storage and be properly formatted.
What if my computer doesn’t boot from the USB drive?
Check your BIOS settings to ensure USB booting is enabled. Also, verify that you’ve correctly created the bootable USB drive.
Will this method erase all data on my computer?
Yes, especially if you use the clean command in Diskpart. Always back up important data before proceeding.
Summary of Steps
- Create a Bootable USB Drive.
- Insert the USB Drive and Restart Your Computer.
- Open Command Prompt from the Boot Menu.
- Use Diskpart to Prepare the Target Drive.
- List and Select the Disk.
- Clean the Selected Disk.
- Create a New Partition.
- Assign a Drive Letter.
- Exit Diskpart and Begin Installation.
Conclusion
Learning how to install Windows 10 from USB using Command Prompt can seem intimidating at first, but with this guide, you’ll find it manageable. This method provides more control over the installation process and can be a lifesaver in tricky situations.
By following the steps, you’re ensuring a clean, efficient installation, which can help your computer perform better. Remember to back up your data and double-check each step before proceeding. If you want to dive deeper, consider exploring more advanced uses of the Command Prompt and Diskpart.
Happy installing, and may your Windows 10 experience be smooth and glitch-free!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.