Technology

How to format a laptop and Reinstall Windows 10​ Step by step

December 30, 2024
Magazina

How to format a laptop and Reinstall Windows 10​ in 5 Steps

Formatting a PC and installing Windows 10 may seem intimidating, but with a clear guide, it’s a task anyone can accomplish. Whether you want to fix performance issues, remove viruses, or start fresh, this guide will walk you through every step from formatting your hard drive to activating your system.

Step 1: Prepare Your PC and Back Up Your Data

  1. Back up important files: Before formatting, transfer your essential photos, documents, and other files to an external hard drive or cloud storage.
  2. Check Windows 10 system requirements: Ensure your PC meets the compatibility requirements (1 GHz processor or faster, at least 2 GB of RAM, and 20 GB of free space).

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive for Windows 10

  1. Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool: Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Media Creation Tool.
  2. Insert a USB flash drive (8 GB or more): Plug an empty USB drive into your PC.
  3. Create the installation media:
  • Launch the Media Creation Tool.
  • Select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file)”.
  • Choose your preferred language, edition, and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
  • The tool will download Windows 10 and install the USB drive.

Step 3: Format Your PC

  1. Boot from the USB drive:
  • Restart your PC and access the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing a key like F2, F12, or DEL).
  • Change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive.

2. Start the installation process:

  • Once the PC boots from the USB, click “Install Now”.

3. Format the hard drive:

  • In the “Where do you want to install Windows?” section, select the main partition.
  • Click “Format” to erase all data and prepare the drive for a clean installation.

Step 4: Install Windows 10

  1. Follow the on-screen instructions: Enter a product key if you have one, or select “I don’t have a product key” to activate Windows later.
  2. Complete the installation: The installation process will take several minutes, after which your PC will restart.

Step 5: Activate Windows 10

  • Check activation status: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation. If Windows isn’t activated, click “Change product key”.
  • Enter your license key: Input the Windows 10 key you purchased.

You can purchase it directly from Microsoft or through other Microsoft partners, such as WorldwideKey

Following these steps, you can format your PC, install Windows 10, and activate the system effortlessly. Ensure you carefully follow each step to avoid data loss or technical issues.