If you need to install Windows 10 without internet, it’s totally doable. You’ll need a Windows 10 installation media, like a USB drive or DVD, and your product key. By following a few straightforward steps, you can get Windows 10 set up on your computer offline. Let’s dive into the step-by-step tutorial to get you started.
How to Install Windows 10 Without Internet
These steps will guide you through installing Windows 10 on your computer without needing an internet connection. You’ll need to prepare your installation media and follow a series of prompts to complete the installation.
Step 1: Prepare Installation Media
First, create a bootable USB drive or use a Windows 10 installation DVD.
You can create a bootable USB drive using the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website, or you can purchase an installation DVD. Make sure you have your product key handy before you start.
Step 2: Insert Installation Media
Insert the USB drive or DVD into your computer.
Once you insert the media, you’ll need to restart your computer. Make sure your computer is set to boot from the USB drive or DVD in the BIOS settings.
Step 3: Restart and Boot from Media
Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive or DVD.
You can usually access the boot menu by pressing a key like F12, ESC, or DEL during startup. Select your installation media from the list to proceed.
Step 4: Start Windows Setup
Begin the Windows Setup process by following the on-screen instructions.
You’ll be prompted to select your language, time, and keyboard preferences. Click "Next" to proceed.
Step 5: Enter Product Key
Enter your Windows 10 product key when prompted.
If you don’t have your product key, you can skip this step and enter it later. However, having your product key ensures a smoother installation process.
Step 6: Select Installation Type
Choose "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)" option.
This option allows you to perform a clean installation of Windows 10, which is necessary if you are installing it on a new or formatted hard drive.
Step 7: Partition Selection
Select the partition where you want to install Windows 10.
If you have an existing partition, you can choose it, or you can create a new one. Follow the prompts to format the partition if necessary.
Step 8: Begin Installation
Click "Next" to begin the Windows installation process.
The setup will now copy files, install features, and update settings. This process can take some time, so be patient.
Step 9: Complete Installation
Follow the remaining on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
After the installation, you’ll be prompted to set up your user account, time zone, and other preferences. Complete these steps to finalize your Windows 10 installation.
After completing these steps, Windows 10 will be installed on your computer. You can start using your system, but remember that certain features and updates might not be available until you connect to the internet.
Tips for Installing Windows 10 Without Internet
- Make sure you have your Windows 10 product key before starting the installation process.
- Use the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive if you don’t have an installation DVD.
- Keep a backup of your important files before performing a clean installation.
- Ensure your computer is set to boot from the correct media in the BIOS settings.
- Be patient during the installation process, as it can take some time to complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an internet connection to install Windows 10?
No, you can install Windows 10 without an internet connection using a USB drive or DVD with the installation media.
Can I activate Windows 10 without internet?
Yes, you can activate Windows 10 offline by entering your product key during the installation process or by using the phone activation method.
What if I don’t have a product key?
You can skip the product key step during installation and activate Windows 10 later when you have internet access.
How do I change the boot order in BIOS?
Access the BIOS by pressing a key like F12, ESC, or DEL during startup. Navigate to the boot menu and change the boot order to prioritize your USB drive or DVD.
Will Windows 10 work without internet?
Yes, Windows 10 will work without internet, but certain features and updates will not be available until you connect to the internet.
Summary
- Prepare installation media.
- Insert installation media.
- Restart and boot from media.
- Start Windows setup.
- Enter product key.
- Select installation type.
- Partition selection.
- Begin installation.
- Complete installation.
Conclusion
Installing Windows 10 without internet is straightforward if you follow these steps. By preparing your installation media and ensuring you have your product key, you can set up a new or existing computer with ease. Remember, while you can get the operating system running without internet, some features and updates will need an online connection later. So, once you’re back online, be sure to complete those updates to ensure your system runs smoothly.
For further reading, you can visit the official Microsoft support page or join online forums where other users share their installation experiences. Now that you’ve got the basics down, why not give it a shot? Happy installing!
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.