How to Perform a Clean Windows Install from USB

Before installing Windows 10, it's essential to ensure that your system is prepared for a smooth installation process. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of performing a clean Windows install from a USB drive.

Preparation

To start, make sure that your Bootable USB drive is set up correctly. If you're using UEFI, ensure that it's configured to boot in UEFI mode. Next, insert the Windows 10 Bootable USB drive and verify that all settings are applied automatically to any system shipped with Windows 8 or Windows 8.1.

Disconnect External Devices

Disconnect any external hard drives and USB peripherals, such as printers and scanners, to ensure a clean installation process.

Boot from Installation Media

Restart your computer and boot from the Windows 10 installation media. You can do this by inserting the USB drive and restarting your computer while pressing the necessary key (usually F2 or Del).

Verify Windows Edition and Activation Status

Once you're in the installation process, right-click on the Start button and select System to check your Windows edition at the top and ensure that it's activated at the bottom. Make sure that the edition of your Windows 10 installation matches your activated version, as selecting the wrong edition may result in Microsoft Product Activation issues.

Edition Considerations

It's essential to note that if you select the wrong edition, such as Windows 10 Single Language, you'll encounter Microsoft Product Activation Issues. Unfortunately, most edition issues from Windows 8 and 8.1 have carried over to Windows 10, although some have been fixed.

Clean Reinstall vs. Upgrade Install

If you've already performed an initial upgrade and want your system to function properly, a clean reinstall may be necessary. Before reinstalling, ensure that you know what edition your previously activated Windows 10 install was.

Waiting for Windows 10 TH2

If you don't wish to perform an upgrade and then clean reinstall, wait for Windows 10 TH2, which will allow for direct clean reinstallation and fix most of the issues highlighted in this guide.

Initial Upgrade Requirements

If you came to this guide to take advantage of the one-year free upgrade from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, note that you must perform an initial upgrade before performing a clean reinstall. If you haven't already done so, see the complementary guide on downloading a Windows 10 TH1 OEM or Retail.

By following these steps and ensuring that your system is properly prepared, you can successfully perform a clean Windows install from USB. Remember to verify your Windows edition and activation status during the installation process to avoid any potential issues.

Clean windows install from usb