How to Install Windows 10 Professional (Step-by-Step)

Windows 10 remains extremely popular, with around 70% of Windows users continuing to rely on it. Still, if you want to install it on a new device, you might be intimidated by the setup process.

Setting up a new operating system takes time and can seem like a daunting experience from the outside. With the right attitude and expert guidance, however, you’ll get it done in no time.

This Windows 10 Professional installation step-by-step guide will help.

Check the System Requirements

Before you install Windows 10, make sure that your device complies with the OS. At a minimum, it should meet the basic requirements:

Processor	1 GHz or faster
Memory	2 GB for 64-bit
Storage	32 GB
Graphics	DirectX 9 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver
Display	800×600 resolution

For optimal performance, Microsoft recommends a 2 GHz processor or faster, 4 GB RAM, and 250 GB storage.

Prepare for the Installation

Since installing Windows 10 can take a while, we suggest stocking up on snacks and getting a refreshing beverage. Additionally, go through this pre-install checklist.

Back Up Data

Loading a new operating system may cause data loss. If your device isn’t new, back up vital files to the cloud. Or, save them to an external device.

20% of computer owners still never back up their data. Don’t be one of them.

Get a Product Key

You need a product key to be able to activate Windows 10.

While you can purchase the operating system directly from Microsoft, going with a trusted seller like Ecokeys lets you score the license at a significant discount.

Download the Media Creation Tool

The simplest way to install Windows 10 is to use Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool. Head to the Windows 10 website and click on Download now. The tool will download to your device.

Prepare a USB Flash Drive

The tool requires you to use a USB Flash Drive or ISO file to install Windows 10. The USB version is more accessible, so we’ll focus on that. On this note, prepare a blank USB flash drive with at least 8 GB storage capacity.

Use the Media Creation Tool

With the preparation out of the way, it’s time to use the tool you just downloaded to create media that will allow you to install Windows 10. Simply follow these steps:

1. Run the tool as administrator.
2. Accept the terms and conditions.
3. Select Create installation media for another PC.
4. Set your language, edition, and architecture preferences for Windows 10.
5. Choose USB flash drive and select your drive from the list.
6. Wait as the tool downloads the required files and creates your bootable USB drive.

Configure BIOS/UEFI

With your bootable USB drive handy, the actual installation can begin.

Your first move is to change the boot order on the device you want to install Windows 10 so it prioritises the USB:

1. Attach the USB to the device.
2. Restart your device and access BIOS/UEFI. Generally, you can do so by pressing F1, F2, F10, or Del during startup. If you’re not sure, check the device manufacturer’s website.
3. Configure the boot sequence to prioritise the USB drive.
4. Save changes and exit.

Complete the Windows 10 Professional Installation Process

If you’ve made it so far, the installation process should begin once you restart your device with your USB attached. From there, follow the on-screen prompts:

1. Select your language preference and click on Install Now.
2. Enter your Windows 10 product key.
3. Review and accept the terms and conditions.
4. Choose the installation type. For a clean process, opt for Custom: Install Windows Only (Advanced).
5. Select the target drive or partition for Windows 10 and format it if required.
6. Let the system copy the installation files and complete the installation process. This will take several minutes, during which your device will repeatedly restart.

Post-Installation Setup

Once Windows 10 is installed, you need to complete a quick setup process.

This is called the Windows Out of Box Experience (OOBE) and is meant to help you customise the operating system.

Essentially, you have to follow a few prompts to be up and running:

1. Select your region.
2. Pick your keyboard layout.
3. Click on Set up for personal use if you’re not using Windows 10 for an organisation.
4. Add or create a Microsoft account.
5. Set a PIN for your device.
6. Customise privacy settings.
7. Opt-in for or decline additional offers and settings (OneDrive, Cortana, and so on).

Finalise the Installation

Congrats, you’re good to go! With your new operating system functional, go the extra mile to make sure it will run like clockwork.

Perform a Windows Update

Since your copy of Windows 10 is brand-new, there might be updates available. To start off on the right foot, perform a Windows Update.

Go to Settings – Update & Security – Windows Update. Click on the Check for updates and install those that pop up.

Install Necessary Drivers

Next, check if there are any additional updates recommended by Windows. This is typically where driver updates show up.

If there’s nothing there, it’s still a good idea to verify that all required drivers are accounted for. Use the Search function to open Device Manager and confirm that none of the devices listed have a red or yellow mark.

Otherwise, you may have to access your device manufacturer’s website to get the drives.

Install Essential Software

With the hard part over, make the device truly your own. Install any software you require – but start with a reliable antivirus. Even free options offer great protection rates.

Activate Windows

Finally, double-check that Windows was activated correctly:

1. Go to Settings.
2. Click on Update & Security.
3. Go to Activation.

There, you’ll see a message letting you know that your device is activated. If not, the system may prompt you to enter your activation key again.

Troubleshooting Tips

While performing a Windows 10 Professional Installation is fairly straightforward, you may still encounter hiccups along the way. If you’re having trouble, these common fixes may help:

• Insufficient disk space: This shouldn’t be an issue if your device meets the system requirements, but you can always free up space by deleting old files.
• Driver compatibility problems: Update drivers or install them from your device manufacturer’s website.
• Activation errors: Revisit the product key to see if you entered it correctly.

If you need further assistance, the Microsoft community is a great resource. Or, you can contact Microsoft customer support.

Conclusion

A clean installation of Windows 10 Professional guarantees that your new operating system runs smoothly, so you can enjoy it from the get-go.

Follow the steps above and you shouldn’t run into any major problems. In fact, you’ll be surprised by how quickly you’ll check this task off your to-do list.