How to Install Windows 10 from USB Using Command Prompt: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking to install Windows 10 from a USB using Command Prompt, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from creating a bootable USB drive to installing Windows 10 on your computer. By the end, you’ll have a fresh Windows 10 installation, ready to go.

How to Install Windows 10 from USB Using Command Prompt

Installing Windows 10 using Command Prompt involves creating a bootable USB drive and using specific commands to install the operating system. This method can be handy if traditional installation methods fail or if you prefer a more hands-on approach.

Step 1: Create a Bootable USB Drive

To begin with, you’ll need to create a bootable USB drive using the Windows 10 ISO file.

Use a tool like Rufus to make this step easier. Download Rufus, run it, and select your USB drive and the Windows 10 ISO file. Click ‘Start’ to create the bootable USB.

Step 2: Open Command Prompt

Once the USB drive is ready, open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.

Press ‘Windows + X’ and choose ‘Command Prompt (Admin)’ or search for ‘cmd’ in the Start Menu, right-click it, and select ‘Run as administrator.’

Step 3: List and Select Disk

In Command Prompt, type diskpart to open the disk partitioning tool, then use the command list disk to see all available drives.

Identify your USB drive in the list. Be careful here; selecting the wrong disk can erase important data. Usually, the USB drive will be the one with the smallest size.

Step 4: Select and Clean the Disk

Type select disk X (replace X with your USB drive number), followed by clean.

This command will erase all data on the USB drive. Make sure you’ve backed up any important files before proceeding.

Step 5: Create a Primary Partition

Next, type create partition primary to create a new primary partition on the USB drive.

This step sets up the drive to hold the Windows 10 installation files.

Step 6: Format the Partition

Type format fs=ntfs quick to format the new partition with the NTFS file system.

The quick format option speeds up the process, but still gets the job done.

Step 7: Assign a Drive Letter

Use the command assign to assign a drive letter to the USB drive.

The new drive letter will allow you to copy files to the USB drive easily.

Step 8: Copy Windows 10 Files

Copy the contents of the Windows 10 ISO file to the USB drive.

You can either mount the ISO file and copy the contents manually or use a tool like 7-Zip to extract and copy the files.

Step 9: Boot from USB

Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive to start the Windows 10 installation process.

You may need to change the boot order in your BIOS settings to prioritize the USB drive.

Step 10: Follow On-Screen Instructions

Once the computer boots from the USB, follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10.

You’ll be guided through the installation steps, such as selecting the language, time, and keyboard settings.

After completing these steps, your computer will start installing Windows 10 from the USB drive. This process may take some time, so be patient. Once done, you’ll have a fresh Windows 10 system ready to use.

Tips for Installing Windows 10 from USB Using Command Prompt

• Backup Important Data: Always back up important data before starting the installation process to avoid losing any crucial files.
• Use a Reliable USB Drive: Ensure your USB drive is reliable and has at least 8GB of storage to hold the Windows 10 installation files.
• Keep Your Product Key Handy: You’ll need your Windows 10 product key during installation. Make sure it’s easily accessible.
• Check System Requirements: Verify that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 10 to avoid installation issues.
• Stay Connected to Power: If you’re installing on a laptop, keep it connected to a power source to prevent interruptions during the installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any USB drive for this process?

Yes, but the USB drive should have at least 8GB of storage and be in good working condition.

Do I need a product key to install Windows 10?

Yes, you’ll need a valid Windows 10 product key to activate the operating system after installation.

Can I install Windows 10 on a computer without an operating system?

Absolutely! This method is perfect for installing Windows 10 on a computer with no existing operating system.

Will this process erase all data on my USB drive?

Yes, the process will erase all data on the USB drive, so make sure to back up any important files before you begin.

How long does the installation process take?

The time varies, but it generally takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the installation, depending on your computer’s speed and performance.

Summary

1. Create a Bootable USB Drive.
2. Open Command Prompt.
3. List and Select Disk.
4. Select and Clean the Disk.
5. Create a Primary Partition.
6. Format the Partition.
7. Assign a Drive Letter.
8. Copy Windows 10 Files.
9. Boot from USB.
10. Follow On-Screen Instructions.

Conclusion

Installing Windows 10 from a USB using Command Prompt can seem a bit daunting at first, but once you break it down into manageable steps, it’s totally doable. By following this guide, you’ll have a fresh installation of Windows 10 in no time.

Remember, the key is to proceed carefully, double-check each step, and ensure you have all necessary tools and information at hand. If you run into any issues, don’t hesitate to consult additional resources or seek help from tech-savvy friends.

In the end, mastering this process not only gives you a new operating system but also a sense of accomplishment. Plus, it’s a handy skill to have in your tech toolkit. So, why not give it a shot and see how smoothly you can install Windows 10 from a USB using Command Prompt? Happy installing!