Each and every version of Microsoft Windows can be installed on your computer by following similar steps. Yes, there are steps in the installation process that differ for different versions of Windows, however, the following are general steps as well as guidelines that will help you install Windows on your computer.
Check hardware compatibility
Before you begin installing or upgrading Windows on your computer, check the hardware in the computer to make sure it is compatible with the version of Windows you want to run. Don’t worry, as Microsoft provides a Windows Compatible Products List for checking if the hardware in your computer is compatible with the version of Windows you selected.
If one or more than one parts of the hardware are not compatible with the selected Windows version, it is recommended you replace the hardware with compatible hardware or consider purchasing a new computer. When you have compatible hardware in your computer it helps ensure the Windows install or upgrade process is successful.
Use an Authentic Windows CD, DVD, or USB thumb drive
First, you have to find an authentic copy of the Microsoft Windows operating system installation CD, DVD, or USB. An authentic Windows product key will be included with the installation disc, it is required to activate Windows after installation. If you own an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) device, the Windows product key will often be on the back or the side of the computer.
If you have bought an OEM computer (e.g., Acer, Dell, HP, etc.), the device will not have a genuine Windows CD, DVD, or USB thumb drive. Instead, you would have to reinstall Windows along with the software using a hidden partition or a set of restore discs. The steps mentioned below will still work, however, you would require a copy of Windows. If you don’t wish to buy a new one, you can borrow a friend’s Windows disc, but keep in mind it has to be the same version of Windows that came with the computer and have a product key.
Note – Microsoft has Windows 10 & Windows 11 are available for download only from their website. Any other site that claims to have copies of these versions of Windows cannot be trusted blindly. These copies of Windows could mostly be pirated software, they can contain anything which might be dangerous for your device, including spyware or malware.
Steps to Installing/Upgrading Windows
To begin the Windows installation or upgradation process, you have to configure your computer to boot from a CD or DVD before the device boots to the hard drive. When you change the boot process it forces the computer to look for the Windows installation disc before it boots from the hard drive.
- First, open the CMOS setup.
- You have to change the computer’s booting order. You need to set the CD, DVD, or disc drive as the first boot device if you are trying to boot the new Windows from a disc. Or, you will have to set the first boot device to your USB drive if you are trying to boot the new Windows from a USB thumb drive. If the drive does not appear, keep the disc inserted, then reboot the computer. While the disc is in the drive, BIOS should recognize it, then it will include it in the list.
- Save the settings you changed, then exit the BIOS.
- After you have updated the boot order; you can finally begin the Windows installation process.
- Insert the Windows disc into the CD/DVD drive or insert the USB drive into the back of your computer.
- Turn it on or if it is already on, restart the computer. While the computer is starting up, it will be able to detect the installation disc or drive, then show a message similar to Press any key to boot from a CD. When it does appear, press any key on your keyboard to have the computer boot from the Windows disc or USB drive.
- After Windows begins to install, there will be several prompts that you are required to answer. You have to select Yes or the appropriate option to install Windows.
- When you’re asked which partition to install Windows onto, make sure you select the main partition, usually the C: drive. Or, the one that is labeled “Unallocated partition”. If you happen to be upgrading Windows, click on the existing installation of Windows on the hard drive.
- You might be asked if you wish to erase all contents on the hard drive and then install Windows. It is recommended you select this option, as it also formats the hard drive to allow the Windows OS to be installed.
- The computer might need to restart several times during this installation process. Don’t panic as the restarts are normal and when prompted to restart, click the Yes option.
- When the installation process nearly reaches its end, the Windows configuration option screens will be shown. On the displayed screens, you might be prompted to select your time zone, your preferred language, as well as the account name you use to access Windows. Choose the appropriate options, then enter the appropriate information for each configuration screen.
- The Windows installation process will be completed when the computer prompts you to log in. Or, when the device loads into Windows.
Last Stage Windows & Computer Configuration
After Windows is installed on your device, you have to install the drivers along with related software for the hardware in the computer. You could just use the installation discs that were given with the hardware or you can download the drivers from the hardware manufacturer’s site.
It is strongly recommended you install all the latest drivers for each piece of hardware.
To check which hardware requires drivers to be installed, check the Device Manager, then search for the exclamation mark “!” beside hardware devices. The exclamation point signifies the drivers are required for the device.
After you install the necessary hardware device drivers, install any software programs on the computer you wish to use.
Finally, download, then install all the available Windows updates. When you update your Windows improves the operating system’s performance, the hardware, and the software programs. It also improves security by fixing potential security holes as well as flaws in Windows.
If you liked this article (or if it helped), leave a comment below or share it with friends so they can also know How to Install Windows?
