In this tutorial, you will learn how to install Windows 10 on a laptop or desktop computer. If this is your first time installing Windows, read carefully and follow every step.
Windows 10 is currently the main operating system supported by Microsoft. Instead of releasing new OS versions, Microsoft continues to improve Windows 10 through regular feature updates.
Before installing, make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 10. If your hardware is ready, prepare the following:
Before You Start
- Backup all important data.
- If you’re using a laptop, plug in the charger.
- Make sure your hardware is in good condition.
- Prepare your Windows 10 installer (USB Flash Drive or DVD).
** Make sure your harddrive using mbr or gpt
MBR (Master Boot Record)
- Boot: Uses legacy BIOS.Disk Size Limit: Max 2 terabytes (TB).
- Partition Limit: Max 4 primary partitions (or 3 primary + 1 extended).
- Data Redundancy: Stores partition info in one place; vulnerable to corruption.
- Best For: Older systems or drives where compatibility with legacy BIOS is essential.
GPT (GUID Partition Table)
- Boot: Uses modern UEFI.
- Disk Size Limit: Supports disks much larger than 2TB (up to 9.4 ZB).
- Partition Limit: Up to 128 partitions (on Windows).
- Data Redundancy: Stores backup copies of partition tables, improving reliability.
- Best For: Modern computers, large drives (>2TB), and installing newer operating systems like Windows 10/11.
Windows 10 Installation Steps
1. Insert the Installer
- Insert your Windows 10 USB or DVD.
- Turn on your computer and enter BIOS.
- Usually by pressing F2 or Delete right after turning it on.
- Set your USB/DVD as First Boot Priority, press F10, then Save & Restart.
- If you see “Press any key to boot from CD or DVD”, press any key immediately.
2. Select Language & Region
Choose:
- Language to install
- Time and currency format
- Keyboard input method
- Then click Next.
3. Click Install Now
Windows setup will start. Wait until it continues to the next step.
4. Enter Product Key
- If you have a product key, enter it.
- If not, click Skip or I don’t have a product key.
5. Choose Windows Version
Select the Windows 10 edition you want to install. Click Next.
6. Accept the License Agreement
Tick I accept the license terms, then click Next.
7. Choose Installation Type
You will see two options:
- Upgrade
- Custom (Advanced)
- Since we’re doing a fresh install, choose Custom.
8. Select Installation Partition
This part is very important!
- Choose the partition where Windows will be installed
(usually Local Disk C). - If Windows was installed before, format the old system partition first.
Be careful: deleting/formatting the wrong partition will erase your data. - Click Next.
9. Wait for Installation Process
- Windows will start copying and installing system files.
- This may take several minutes.
10. System Restart
- Your computer will restart automatically. Click Restart Now if prompted.
- Remove your USB/DVD when restarting.
- Your computer may restart several times. Just wait.
11. Initial Setup
When installation continues:
- Enter product key if asked (or choose Do this later)
- Select I own it
- Click Next
12. Create a User Account
Enter:
- Username
- Password (optional)
- Password Hint
- Then click Next.
13. Finalizing Setup
Wait a few moments. Windows will prepare your desktop.
14. Done!
Congratulations! Windows 10 is now successfully installed on your laptop or desktop.
Final Notes
Share this guide so others can learn too.
For region settings, simply choose options based on your country.
Good luck!