How to Install Windows 10 – Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Installing or reinstalling Windows 10 may sound technical, but it’s a straightforward process anyone can follow with the right guidance. Whether you’re building a new PC, upgrading from an older version, or refreshing your system, this post will teach you how to install Windows 10 step by step using a bootable USB.

What You Need Before Installation

Before you begin, gather the following:

✅ A working PC with internet
✅ 8GB or larger USB drive
✅ Windows 10 ISO file or Media Creation Tool (free from Microsoft)
✅ A backup of your important data
✅ Valid Windows 10 product key (if not pre-activated)

Step 1: Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool

1. Visit the official Microsoft site:
   Download Windows 10 Tool
2. Click “Download tool now”
3. Run the downloaded tool on your current PC

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

1. Launch the Media Creation Tool
2. Select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC”
3. Choose language, edition, and architecture (64-bit recommended)
4. Select USB flash drive
5. Pick your USB from the list and click Next – It will format and set up your drive

💡 Tip: Make sure to back up anything on the USB, as it will be erased.

Step 3: Boot from the USB Drive

1. Plug the USB into the computer you want to install Windows on
2. Turn on or restart the PC and enter the BIOS/boot menu (usually F2, F12, DEL, or ESC)
3. Set the USB as the first boot device
4. Save and exit BIOS

The computer will now boot into the Windows 10 setup screen.

Step 4: Start the Windows 10 Installation

1. Select language, time, and keyboard – click Next
2. Click Install Now
3. Enter your Windows 10 product key or click “I don’t have a product key” to activate later
4. Choose the edition of Windows (e.g., Home, Pro)
5. Accept license terms and click Next

Step 5: Choose Installation Type

You’ll be given two options:

• Upgrade – Keep files and settings
• Custom – Clean install (recommended for fresh start)

If doing a clean install:

1. Select the partition where Windows should be installed
2. Delete old partitions if needed (Caution: this erases data)
3. Select unallocated space and click Next

Step 6: Let the Installation Complete

Windows will now install the system files. This process may take 15–45 minutes and will restart several times.

Once complete, you’ll see the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE):

• Choose region and keyboard layout
• Connect to Wi-Fi
• Sign in with a Microsoft account (or create offline account)
• Set privacy settings

Step 7: Activate and Update Windows

1. Once logged in, go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation
2. If not already activated, enter your product key
3. Install all available Windows Updates under Windows Update

Why You Might Reinstall Windows 10

• Fix slow or crashing system
• Remove viruses or malware
• Start fresh with a clean setup
• Upgrade from older versions (Windows 7/8)

A fresh install ensures optimal performance and eliminates hidden issues.

🖥 Need a Windows 10 Key?

Get an official and affordable key here:
👉 Buy Windows 10 Key

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is Windows 10 still available in 2025?
Yes, Microsoft continues to support and offer Windows 10 as an option even after Windows 11’s release.

Q2. Can I install Windows 10 without a product key?
Yes, but you’ll have limited customization options and a watermark until it’s activated.

Q3. Will I lose my data when installing Windows 10?
If you choose the Custom (clean install) option, yes. Always back up before starting.

Q4. What if I don’t know how to enter BIOS?
Check your PC brand’s support site or watch tutorials—commonly used keys are DEL, F2, F12, or ESC.

Q5. Can I use the same USB to install Windows on multiple PCs?
Yes, as long as each PC has a valid license or key.