How to install Windows 10 from a USB drive

The steps match Windows 11, with lighter hardware needs.

Step 1: save your files

A clean install erases the system disk.

Step 2: create the drive

Download the Media Creation Tool for Windows 10 from Microsoft. You need a USB drive of 8 GB or more.

Step 3: boot from USB

Use the boot menu key for your PC.

Step 4: install

Choose Custom, select the disk and continue.

Step 5: first setup

Create the account and connect to the network.

Step 6: activate

Enter the key in Settings.