You can install Windows 10 from a bootable USB drive, but in 2026 you should first consider whether Windows 10 is the right operating system for the PC. Normal support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. Microsoft recommends Windows 11 for compatible computers, while eligible Windows 10 systems may have Extended Security Updates options during the transition.
Before You Install Windows 10
- Back up your files. A clean installation can erase applications, settings, and data.
- Check support for the PC. Confirm that the manufacturer still provides the drivers you need.
- Confirm your license. Reinstalling the same Windows edition on hardware that already has a digital license may reactivate automatically, but activation depends on the device and license.
- Prefer Windows 11 when the PC supports it. Windows 10 no longer receives normal free security updates.
- Use trusted installation media. Obtain Windows media from Microsoft rather than modified third-party ISO downloads.
How to Install Windows 10 from a USB Drive
- Create or obtain official Windows 10 installation media. Use Microsoft’s available Windows download resources and a USB flash drive large enough for the installer.
- Back up the computer. Copy documents, photos, browser data, recovery keys, and other important information somewhere separate from the PC.
- Connect the installation USB.
- Restart the PC and open its boot menu. The key varies by manufacturer and may be F12, Esc, F9, or another key.
- Choose the UEFI USB device. On modern hardware, use UEFI booting unless the device specifically requires a legacy configuration.
- Select your language and keyboard options.
- Choose Install now.
- Enter a product key if required. If the PC already has an appropriate digital license, you may be able to choose I don’t have a product key and activate after installation.
- Select the Windows edition that matches your license.
- Choose the installation type. For a clean installation, choose the custom installation option.
- Select the destination drive or partition carefully. Deleting or formatting partitions destroys data. Do not remove recovery or data partitions unless you intentionally want them erased and have a backup.
- Continue the installation. Windows will copy files and restart several times.
- Complete setup. Connect to the network as appropriate, create or sign in to the required account, and review privacy settings.
- Install updates and hardware drivers. Start with Windows Update, then use the PC or hardware manufacturer’s support site for missing device-specific drivers.
Clean Install vs. In-Place Installation
Booting from the USB is normally used for a clean installation or recovery work. If you are already running Windows and launch setup.exe from compatible Windows installation media, Setup may offer an in-place path that preserves more apps and files. The available choices depend on the source and target Windows versions and editions.
What If the PC Cannot Run Windows 11?
A PC that cannot meet Windows 11 requirements does not automatically become unusable, but continuing on an unsupported Windows 10 installation increases security risk. Review Microsoft’s current Windows 10 Extended Security Updates options and consider replacing unsupported hardware when practical.
Activation After Reinstalling Windows
Many PCs use a digital license rather than requiring you to manually type a key during every reinstall. Install the same licensed edition—such as Home or Pro—and connect to the internet. If activation fails, open the Activation settings and use Microsoft’s troubleshooting options. Major hardware changes can affect activation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still install Windows 10 in 2026?
Installation media can still be used in appropriate circumstances, but normal Windows 10 support ended October 14, 2025. A supported Windows 11 installation is preferable on compatible hardware.
Will installing Windows 10 erase my files?
A clean installation can. Back up anything important before changing partitions or installing an operating system.
Do I need a product key during setup?
Not always. A device with an appropriate digital license may reactivate after the correct edition is installed and the PC connects to the internet.
Should I download drivers before installing?
It is wise to have at least the network/storage drivers available for unusual hardware. After setup, use Windows Update first and then the computer or component manufacturer’s official support resources.
Can I install Windows 10 on a brand-new PC?
Hardware support varies. New components may not have Windows 10 drivers, and Windows 10 itself is past normal support, so Windows 11 is generally the better choice for new compatible hardware.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.