How to Install Windows 10 From USB Flash Drive! (Complete Tutorial)

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of installing Windows 10 from a USB flash drive. Whether you're looking to format your PC or perform a clean installation, these step-by-step instructions will help you create installation media, boot from it, and set up Windows 10 effectively.

Step 1: Download Windows 10

1. Visit the Microsoft website to download the Windows Media Creation Tool.
2. Open the downloaded file and accept the terms.
3. Select "Create installation media for another PC" and click next.
4. Choose your preferred language, edition, and system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
   • To check your system architecture:
     • Right-click on "This PC" or "My Computer".
     • Click on "Properties" to view system type.
5. Select "ISO file" as the download option for versatility.
6. Choose a download location and click save.
7. Wait for the download to complete (approximately 2.73 GB for 32-bit or 3.25 GB for 64-bit).

Step 2: Create Installation Media

1. Download and install Rufus from the link provided in the video description.
2. Connect a USB flash drive (minimum 8 GB).
3. Launch Rufus; it should automatically detect your USB drive.
   • If not, select it manually.
4. Ensure the File System is set to NTFS.
5. Click on the "Select" button and navigate to the Windows 10 ISO file you downloaded.
6. Click "Start" and confirm the warning that it will erase data on the USB drive.
7. Wait for the process to complete, turning your USB drive into a bootable installation media.

Step 3: Choose the Boot Device in BIOS

1. Restart your PC with the USB drive connected.
2. As the computer starts, press the BIOS key (common keys are F2, F12, or Esc).
   • If unsure, check your motherboard manual or search online.
3. Navigate using the keyboard (arrow keys) to find the boot menu.
4. Set the USB drive as the primary boot device.
5. Save changes and exit the BIOS (usually via F10).
6. Your computer should prompt you to "Press any key to boot from USB"; do so.

Step 4: Install Windows 10

1. Once the installation setup loads, select your language, time, and keyboard preferences. Click "Next".
2. Click "Install Now".
3. If prompted, enter your product key or choose to do it later.
4. Accept the Microsoft license terms.
5. Choose "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)".
6. Here, you'll manage your disk partitions:
   • To split an existing partition, select it, click "Delete" to convert it to unallocated space, then create new partitions as needed.
   • If you want to create a new partition, select the unallocated space and click "New", specifying the size.
7. Select the partition where you want to install Windows 10 (usually C drive) and click "Next".
8. The installation will begin, and your PC may restart multiple times. Wait for it to complete.

Step 5: Set Up Windows for the First Time

1. After installation, you'll be prompted to enter your product key (optional).
2. Choose your setup preferences (express settings or customize).
3. Create a username and password for your PC, if desired.
4. Wait for the loading screen, and soon you will reach the Windows desktop.

Conclusion

You have successfully formatted your PC and installed Windows 10 from a USB flash drive. This method is useful for reinstalling Windows or setting up a new PC. Remember to keep your product key handy for future activation. If you need further assistance or want to explore more tutorials, feel free to reach out or check additional resources.