Reinstalling Windows 10 from BIOS might sound like a complicated process, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. You’ll need a USB drive, a Windows 10 installation file, and access to your computer’s BIOS settings. By following a series of steps, you can wipe your computer clean and reinstall the operating system, giving your machine a fresh start.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Reinstall Windows 10 from BIOS
In this section, we’ll break down the steps needed to reinstall Windows 10 from BIOS. By the end, you’ll have a clear, fresh operating system running on your computer.
Step 1: Create a Windows 10 Installation USB
First, you’ll need to make a bootable USB drive with the Windows 10 installation files.
To do this, download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website and follow the prompts to create a USB installation drive. Make sure your USB drive is at least 8GB in size.
Step 2: Access BIOS Settings
Next, you’ll need to enter BIOS on your computer to change the boot order.
Restart your computer and press the appropriate key (often F2, F10, DEL, or ESC, depending on your computer’s manufacturer) to enter the BIOS menu. This key is usually displayed on the screen during the initial boot process for a few seconds.
Step 3: Change Boot Order
In the BIOS menu, navigate to the "Boot" tab to change the boot order.
Set your USB drive as the first boot device. This tells your computer to start from the USB drive instead of the hard drive, allowing the installation process to begin.
Step 4: Save and Exit BIOS
After setting the correct boot order, you’ll need to save the changes and exit.
Look for the "Save & Exit" option often found in the BIOS menu. Confirm the changes, and your computer will restart. It should now boot from the USB drive.
Step 5: Begin Windows Installation
With your computer booted from the USB drive, the Windows installation process will start.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10. You’ll need to select your language, time, and keyboard settings. When prompted, choose "Install Now" to begin the installation.
Step 6: Wipe Existing Hard Drive
When you reach the part of the installation where you select the drive, you’ll have the option to format it.
Select the existing partitions on your hard drive and delete them. This will wipe all current data, so make sure you’ve backed up important files. Afterward, select the unallocated space to install Windows 10.
Step 7: Follow Installation Prompts
Continue following the prompts to complete the installation process.
The computer will restart several times. During this time, keep the USB drive plugged in. When the installation is complete, you’ll reach the Windows setup screen where you can configure your preferences.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a fresh install of Windows 10 running on your computer with all previous data wiped clean.
Tips for Reinstalling Windows 10 from BIOS
- Backup Important Data: Always back up your important files before starting the reinstallation process.
- Keep USB Drive Handy: Don’t remove the USB drive until the installation process is completely finished.
- Know Your BIOS Key: Each computer brand has a different BIOS key. Check your computer’s manual or manufacturer’s website if unsure.
- Have a Product Key Ready: You might need your Windows 10 product key during installation.
- Check Your Drivers: After installing Windows, ensure all your hardware drivers are up to date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BIOS?
BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System. It’s firmware used to perform hardware initialization during the booting process.
Do I need to reinstall my drivers after reinstalling Windows 10?
Yes, after reinstalling Windows 10, you should update all your hardware drivers to ensure everything works correctly.
Can I reinstall Windows 10 without a USB drive?
Yes, you can reinstall Windows 10 using an ISO file or another installation medium, but a USB drive is the most common and straightforward method.
Will reinstalling Windows 10 delete my files?
Yes, reinstalling Windows 10 will erase all files on your hard drive, so it’s essential to back up your data beforehand.
How long does it take to reinstall Windows 10?
The entire process can take between 20 minutes to an hour, depending on your computer’s speed and performance.
Summary of Steps
- Create a Windows 10 Installation USB.
- Access BIOS settings.
- Change boot order to USB drive.
- Save and exit BIOS.
- Begin Windows installation.
- Wipe existing hard drive.
- Follow installation prompts.
Conclusion
Reinstalling Windows 10 from BIOS might seem like a daunting task, but with a bit of patience and the right instructions, it’s entirely doable. This process can breathe new life into an old computer or help solve persistent software issues by providing a clean slate for your system.
Remember, the key to a smooth reinstallation is preparation. Back up your important files, ensure you have the right tools (like a bootable USB drive), and know the steps ahead of time. After the installation, don’t forget to update your drivers and restore your data.
If this guide helped you, consider sharing it with friends who might benefit from a fresh start on their Windows 10 computers. Happy computing!
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.