Installing Windows from USB: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
If you’ve found yourself using a PC without a proper installation of Windows for an extended period, you’re not alone. Many users, myself included, have relied on unofficial versions of the operating system. While it may have seemed like a practical solution at first—allowing you to change wallpaper and perform basic functions—you may eventually encounter issues that lead you to seek a legitimate version of the software.
After three years of using a PC with an unofficial setup, I’ve decided it’s time to pivot. I’m ready to purchase a genuine copy of Windows and start anew. I’m prepared to wipe my system clean and perform a fresh installation. The prospect of this change is both exciting and daunting, so I’m reaching out for guidance on how to proceed.
The Installation Process: What You Need to Know
From what I’ve gathered, the installation process appears relatively straightforward. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the steps I believe I need to follow:
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Purchase a Genuine Copy of Windows: First and foremost, ensure you buy a legitimate version of Windows from an authorized retailer.
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Create a Bootable USB Drive: This is critical. You’ll need to download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s official website. This tool will help you create a bootable USB drive with Windows installation files.
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Prepare Your PC for Installation:
- Insert the USB drive into a USB port on your PC.
- Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (the exact key varies by manufacturer, but it’s often Del, F2, Esc, or F12).
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Within the BIOS menu, set the USB drive as the primary boot option.
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Begin the Installation:
- Save your BIOS settings and exit, which will reboot your PC.
- If everything is set correctly, your PC should boot from the USB drive, and you’ll see the Windows Setup screen.
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Follow the onscreen instructions to erase the existing partitions and install Windows from scratch.
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Complete the Installation: Once the installation is complete, you can go through the setup process to personalize your system.
Final Thoughts
While I’m excited to finally have a genuine copy of Windows running on my machine, I am a bit apprehensive about the process. But from everything I’ve read and understood, it seems manageable. If you have any tips or tricks for a seamless installation experience, or if there
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