How To Install Windows 10 From Usb

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by

Vector Linux
in

As a technical enthusiast, I have always enjoyed exploring new operating systems and experimenting with different installation methods. One popular and convenient way to install Windows 10 is through a USB flash drive. In this article, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of installing Windows 10 from a USB, sharing my personal insights and tips along the way.

Why Install Windows 10 from USB?

Before we dive into the installation process, let’s discuss why installing Windows 10 from a USB can be beneficial. First and foremost, it allows for a faster installation compared to traditional methods like using a DVD. USB flash drives have faster read and write speeds, resulting in a quicker installation process. Additionally, using a USB allows you to carry your Windows 10 installation media with you, making it convenient for on-the-go installations or when upgrading multiple computers.

What You’ll Need

Before we begin, let’s gather the necessary tools:

  • A USB flash drive with a minimum capacity of 8GB (preferably a USB 3.0 for faster transfer speeds)
  • A Windows 10 ISO file (can be downloaded from the official Microsoft website)
  • A computer with a working USB port

Creating a Bootable Windows 10 USB Drive

Once you have the required tools, follow these steps to create a bootable Windows 10 USB drive:

  1. Insert the USB flash drive into your computer’s USB port.
  2. Open a web browser and navigate to the Microsoft website to download the Windows 10 ISO file. Make sure to select the appropriate edition and language.
  3. Once the ISO file is downloaded, right-click on it and select “Mount” to create a virtual CD/DVD drive.
  4. Open File Explorer and locate the mounted ISO file. Note down the drive letter assigned to it.
  5. Next, open the Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by right-clicking the Start menu and selecting “Command Prompt (Admin)”.
  6. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command: diskpart and press Enter. This will open the DiskPart utility.
  7. Type list disk and press Enter to see a list of available disks on your computer. Identify the number corresponding to your USB flash drive.
  8. Type select disk X (replace X with the number of your USB flash drive) and press Enter.
  9. Next, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each command:
    clean
    create partition primary
    select partition 1
    active
    format fs=ntfs quick
    assign
  10. After formatting the USB drive, type exit to exit the DiskPart utility.
  11. Now, go back to the mounted ISO drive in File Explorer, select all files and folders, and copy them to the USB drive you just formatted.
  12. Once the files are copied, safely eject the USB drive from your computer.

Installing Windows 10 from USB

Now that you have a bootable Windows 10 USB drive, it’s time to install the operating system. Follow these steps:

  1. Insert the Windows 10 USB drive into the computer you want to install Windows 10 on.
  2. Power on the computer and access the BIOS menu. This menu can usually be accessed by pressing a specific key during the startup process (e.g., F2 or Del). Consult your computer’s manual for the exact key.
  3. In the BIOS menu, navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Order” section and set the USB drive as the primary boot device.
  4. Save the changes and exit the BIOS. The computer will restart.
  5. Once the computer restarts, it will boot from the USB drive and initiate the Windows 10 installation process.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure your language preferences, enter your product key (if prompted), and choose the installation type (e.g., custom or upgrade).
  7. Select the drive where you want to install Windows 10 and proceed with the installation.
  8. Wait for the installation process to complete. The computer will restart several times during this process.
  9. Once the installation is finished, you’ll be prompted to set up your user account and complete the initial Windows 10 setup.

Conclusion

Installing Windows 10 from a USB drive is a convenient and efficient method that offers faster installation speeds and portability. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this article, you can easily create a bootable Windows 10 USB drive and install the operating system with ease. Enjoy exploring the new features and functionalities that Windows 10 has to offer!