Confession: I’ve been running my PC without Windows for three years—now, how can I install Windows using a USB?

How to Freshly Install Windows on Your PC via USB: A Step-by-Step Guide

It’s not uncommon for individuals to navigate the world of PCs without a licensed operating system. If you find yourself in a situation similar to mine—using an unlicensed version of Windows for an extended period—you’re not alone. After realizing I needed a more stable and legitimate setup, I’ve decided it’s time to purchase a proper Windows license and start fresh with a clean installation.

If you’re in the same boat and looking to install Windows via a USB drive, here’s a straightforward guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Acquire a Windows License

Before you can install Windows, you’ll need to purchase a valid license. You can buy it directly from the Microsoft Store or authorized retailers. This step ensures that you’re getting the real deal and all necessary updates.

Step 2: Prepare Your USB Drive

Get a USB Drive: Make sure your USB drive has at least 8GB of space.
Download the Windows Media Creation Tool: Visit the Microsoft website to download the Media Creation Tool. This tool helps you create a bootable USB drive with the Windows installation files.
Create the Bootable USB:
Run the Media Creation Tool and select the option to create installation media for another PC.
Choose your preferred language, edition, and architecture (64-bit or 32-bit).
Select USB flash drive as your media type and follow the prompts until the process is complete.

Step 3: Back Up Your Data

Since you mentioned being okay with losing everything, you might not need this step. However, if there’s anything you want to save, ensure you back up important files to an external drive or cloud storage.

Step 4: Boot from the USB Drive

Insert the USB Drive: Plug the bootable USB into your PC.
Access BIOS/UEFI: Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI settings. This is typically done by pressing a specific key during boot, like F2, F10, DEL, or ESC (the key may vary based on your hardware).
Set USB as the Boot Priority: Once in BIOS, navigate to the boot menu and ensure that your USB drive is set as the primary boot device. Save any changes and exit.