Reinstalling Windows 10 can be a necessary step to fix computer problems, remove viruses, or simply start fresh. This process is often considered complicated by some users, but with the right guidance, anyone can do it. In this article, we will discuss the steps and preparations needed to perform a safe and effective reinstallation of Windows 10.
Preparation Before Reinstallation
Before starting the reinstallation process, there are a few preparations that need to be made to ensure that everything goes smoothly. This includes backing up important data, ensuring that licenses are available, and preparing the installation media.
1. Backup Important Data
Backing up your data is a crucial step before reinstalling your operating system. You can move your important files to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or another device. Make sure to back up any documents, photos, videos, and apps you consider important.
2. Make Sure You Have a Valid License
Before reinstalling, make sure you have a valid Windows 10 product key. This product key is usually located on the purchase package or you can find it in the confirmation email if you purchased Windows online.
3. Prepare the Installation Media
You need to create installation media using a flash drive or DVD. You can download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's official website. This tool makes it easy for you to create installation media with the latest version of Windows 10.
Creating Installation Media
Once you have done the preparation, the next step is to create installation media for Windows 10. This process is simple, and here are the steps.
1. Unduh Media Creation Tool
Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Media Creation Tool. This tool allows you to create installation media easily.
2. Run the Media Creation Tool
After downloading, run the Media Creation Tool. You may need to grant permission to run it and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Select the 'Create installation media' option
In the window that appears, select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC” and click “Next”.
4. Determine Language, Version, and Architecture
Select your desired language, Windows 10 version, and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit). Make sure to select according to your hardware.
5. Select Installation Media
Select “USB flash drive” if you want to use a flash drive, or “ISO file” if you want to burn to DVD. If you choose USB, make sure the flash drive is clean and has a capacity of at least 8GB.
6. Wait for the Process to Complete
Once the process is complete, the installation media is ready to use. Do not remove the flash drive or DVD until the process is complete.
Windows 10 Reinstallation Process
After creating the installation media, it's time to reinstall Windows 10. Make sure you follow the steps below carefully to avoid any problems.
1. Enter BIOS/UEFI
Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI. Usually, you can do this by pressing a specific key such as F2, Del, or Esc while booting. On some computers, the key used may be different.
2. Set Boot from Installation Media
In BIOS, find the boot options and set the computer to boot from the USB or DVD you created. Save the changes and exit BIOS. The computer will restart.
3. Start the Installation Process
After booting from the installation media, you will see the Windows installation screen. Select your language, time, and keyboard, then click “Next”.
4. Select 'Install Now'
On the next screen, click “Install now” to start the installation process.
5. Enter the Product Key
If prompted, enter your Windows 10 product key. If you don't have a product key, you can select the “I don't have a product key” option and continue, but you'll need to enter your product key later.
6. Select Installation Type
You will be presented with the option to “Upgrade” or “Custom”. Select “Custom” (advanced) to perform a fresh install. This will erase all data from the current system.
7. Select Partition to Install
Select the partition where you want to install Windows 10. If you want to do a complete reinstall, you can delete the partition and create a new one for a clean install.
8. Wait for the installation process
After specifying the partition, the installation will begin. This process takes a few minutes to approximately one hour. The computer will restart several times during this process.
Initial Setup After Installation
After the installation process is complete, you need to do some initial settings to optimize the use of Windows 10.
1. Set up Microsoft Account
After restarting, you will be prompted to sign in with your Microsoft account or create a new account. Using a Microsoft account allows you to access various Windows 10 features online.
2. Select Privacy Preferences
In this step, you will be asked to set your privacy preferences. Read each option and adjust it to your liking. You can choose to disable some features if you don't feel you need them.
3. Select Internet Connection Options
You can also choose to connect to Wi-Fi or use a wired internet connection now. Make sure you are connected so you can download updates and apps.
4. Install Windows Updates
Once done, be sure to check for updates by going to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update”. Install all available updates to keep your operating system running optimally.
Installing Essential Drivers and Applications
After completing the initial setup, you will need to install the necessary drivers and applications to run the hardware and software properly.
1. Install Important Drivers
One step that is often overlooked is installing hardware drivers. Visit your hardware manufacturer's website and download the latest drivers for components such as graphics cards, sound cards, and motherboards.
2. Install Required Applications
Once the drivers are installed, you can start installing essential applications such as browsers, office suites, or other software that you normally use. Make sure to download the latest version from an official source to be safe.
3. Configure System Settings
Once everything is installed, you may want to adjust the display settings, sounds, and other preferences to suit your usage habits.
Managing Security and Maintenance
Once Windows 10 is installed, it is important to keep the system secure and maintained to keep it running smoothly.
1. Enable Windows Defender
Windows 10 comes with Windows Defender which can protect your computer from viruses and malware. Make sure this zaštita is enabled and always updated.
2. Routine Data Backup
Regular data backup is essential to avoid data loss. You can use the backup feature in Windows 10 or cloud services to do this.
3. Perform Routine Cleaning
Periodically, perform a cleanup to remove temporary files and unnecessary cache. You can use a cleaning application or the Disk Cleanup feature in Windows.
By following the steps above, you can reinstall Windows 10 easily and efficiently. This process will not only fix the problem but also give you the opportunity to start with a clean system. Make sure to always perform maintenance and updates to keep your computer running smoothly.
