How to Format and Clean Install Windows 10
Windows 10 allows you to perform a clean install, which will erase all data on your computer and install a fresh copy of Windows. This can be useful if you are experiencing problems with your computer, or if you want to start fresh.
To perform a clean install of Windows 10, you will need:
- A USB flash drive with at least 8GB of storage
- A copy of the Windows 10 installation media
- A product key for Windows 10 (optional)
Instructions
- Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from the Microsoft website.
- Run the Media Creation Tool and select “Create installation media for another PC.”
- Select the language, edition, and architecture of Windows 10 that you want to install.
- Select a USB flash drive and click “Next.”
- The Media Creation Tool will format the USB flash drive and copy the Windows 10 installation files to it. This may take several minutes.
- Once the Windows 10 installation files have been copied to the USB flash drive, restart your computer.
- When your computer restarts, press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings.
- In the BIOS or UEFI settings, change the boot order so that the USB flash drive is first.
- Save your changes and exit the BIOS or UEFI settings.
- Your computer will now boot from the USB flash drive.
- The Windows 10 setup wizard will appear. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10.
- When prompted, enter a product key for Windows 10 (optional).
- Windows 10 will now be installed on your computer. This may take several minutes.
- Once Windows 10 has been installed, you will be prompted to set up your computer. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
Tips
- If you are experiencing problems with your computer, it is a good idea to back up your data before performing a clean install of Windows 10.
- If you do not have a product key for Windows 10, you can still install and use Windows 10 for free. However, you will be limited to certain features.
- You can also perform a clean install of Windows 10 from a DVD. To do this, you will need to create a bootable DVD using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.
Troubleshooting
- If you are having problems performing a clean install of Windows 10, you can try the following:
- Make sure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 10.
- Make sure that your USB flash drive or DVD is formatted correctly.
- Make sure that your product key is valid.
- Try restarting your computer.
- Contact Microsoft support for assistance.