Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Install Windows 10

Performing a clean install of Windows 10 is a great way to start fresh and resolve persistent issues. Follow this step-by-step guide to reinstall the operating system on your device.

Before You Begin

Requirements:

• Windows 10 Installation Media: USB drive (at least 8GB) or DVD
• Valid Windows 10 Product Key: If needed
• Backup Tool: External hard drive or cloud service

Important:

1. Backup Important Data: Save all files, photos, and important documents, as a clean install will erase everything on your system drive.
2. Note Product Keys: Note down any software product keys that may be required after installation.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Create Windows 10 Installation Media

1. Download Media Creation Tool:

   • Visit the Microsoft website.
   • Download the Media Creation Tool.

2. Create the Installation Media:

   • Run the Media Creation Tool.
   • Select "Create installation media for another PC."
   • Choose the language, edition, and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
   • Insert the USB drive or prepare a blank DVD.
   • Select USB flash drive or ISO file for DVD.

Step 2: Configure Your Computer to Boot from USB/DVD

1. Insert Installation Media:

   • Insert the USB drive or DVD into your computer.

2. Access BIOS/UEFI Settings:

   • Restart the computer.
   • Press the specific key (often F2, F12, Delete, or Esc) to enter BIOS/UEFI settings.
   • Change the boot order to prioritize USB or DVD.

Step 3: Install Windows 10

1. Start Installation:

   • Reboot your computer.
   • The system should boot from the installation media.
   • Select language, time, and keyboard preferences and click Next.
   • Click on "Install Now."

2. Enter Product Key:

   • If prompted, enter your Windows 10 product key.
   • If reinstalling and the device was previously activated, select "I don’t have a product key."

3. Installation Type:

   • Choose "Custom: Install Windows only (Advanced)."

4. Select Partition:

   • Choose the partition where you want to install Windows 10.
   • Delete existing partitions for a clean install.
   • Create a new partition and format it.
   • Click Next.

Step 4: Set Up Windows 10

1. Follow On-Screen Instructions:

   • The setup process will copy files, install features, and install updates.
   • Your computer will restart several times.

2. Personalize Settings:

   • Set up region, language, and keyboard layout.
   • Connect to Wi-Fi if needed.

3. Create User Account:

   • Sign in with a Microsoft account or create a local account.
   • Set privacy preferences and Cortana settings.

Step 5: Install Drivers and Software

1. Update Windows:

   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
   • Check for updates and install them.

2. Install Drivers:

   • Visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers for your hardware.

3. Reinstall Applications:

   • Use product keys as needed to reinstall purchased software.

After Installation

• Restore Data: Copy back your files from backup.
• Configure Preferences: Tweak settings as desired, like display resolution, power options, etc.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Installation Issues: Ensure the installation media is correctly created and the boot order is set properly.
• Driver Problems: Ensure you download the latest drivers suitable for Windows 10 versions.

Performing a clean install of Windows 10 will give your system a fresh start, making it run smoothly and more efficiently. Always ensure data is backed up, and your PC is prepared before starting the installation process.