How to Create Windows 10 Installation Media

To install Windows 10 on a different computer, utilize the provided tool to craft installation media like a USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file. Below is a comprehensive guide to facilitate this process.

Prerequisites:

• Internet Connection: Ensure you have an active internet connection. (ISP fees may be applicable)
• Storage Space: Ensure ample storage space on your computer, USB, or an external drive for the download.
• Media Creation: A blank USB flash drive or DVD (with a DVD burner) is required. Ensure there's a minimum of 4 GB of space. Any pre-existing content will be deleted.

Before Installation:

1. Processor (CPU) Type: Identify whether your PC has a 64-bit or 32-bit processor. This will determine the version of Windows 10 you'll install. Navigate to PC info under PC settings or System in Control Panel and check for 'System type'.

2. System Compatibility: Ensure your PC fulfills the Windows 10 system requirements. It's advisable to visit the PC manufacturer's official website for updated drivers and hardware compatibility information.

3. Language Settings: The language you currently use should match the one you select during Windows 10 installation. Check the current language at 'Time and language' in PC settings or 'Region' in the Control Panel.

4. Windows Edition: Match the edition of Windows you are installing with your current one. Navigate to PC info or System in Control Panel to determine your 'Windows edition'. Note that Windows 10 Enterprise isn’t available for media creation.

5. Microsoft Office: If your device includes Office 365, redeem and install Office before upgrading to Windows 10. If you possess Office 2010 or earlier and are considering a fresh install of Windows 10, locate your Office product key.

Media Creation Steps:

1. Click on 'Download tool' and choose 'Run'. An administrator access is required to execute this tool.

2. Read and accept the license terms.

3. Select 'Create installation media for another PC' and click 'Next'.

4. Choose the desired language, edition, and architecture (64-bit or 32-bit) for Windows 10. Refer to the following table for edition guidance:

   Current Windows Edition	Windows 10 Edition
   Windows 7 Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, 8/8.1, 8.1 with Bing	Windows 10 Home
   Windows 7 Professional, Ultimate, 8 Pro, 8.1 Pro, 8/8.1 Professional with Media Center	Windows 10 Pro
   Windows 8/8.1 Single Language, 8 Single Language with Bing	Windows 10 Home Single Language
   Windows 8/8.1 Chinese Language Edition, 8 Chinese Language Edition with Bing	Windows 10 Home China

5. Specify your media preference:

   • USB flash drive: Use a blank USB flash drive (min. 4GB). Content will be deleted.
   • ISO file: Save the ISO file to your PC. This can be burned to a DVD later. For a detailed guide on using an ISO file, refer to the dedicated section below.

6. Once the installation media is ready, you can proceed to use it for your desired operations.

Using the ISO File to Install Windows 10:

ISO files are disc image files used for storing the contents of a CD or DVD in a single file. If you choose to download Windows 10 as an ISO file, you can use it to create installation media to install or reinstall Windows 10 on a PC. Here's how:

1. Saving the ISO: Once the media creation tool completes its process, choose to save the ISO file to a location on your PC.

2. Burning the ISO to a DVD:

   • Insert a blank DVD into your DVD burner.
   • Navigate to the location where the ISO file is saved.
   • Right-click on the ISO file and select "Burn disc image."
   • In the Windows Disc Image Burner window, select the DVD drive and click on 'Burn'.

3. Creating a Bootable USB with the ISO: If you prefer to use a USB drive instead of a DVD, third-party software like Rufus can be utilized to create a bootable USB from the ISO.

4. Installing Windows 10:

   • If using a DVD: Insert the DVD into the PC where you wish to install Windows 10 and boot from it.
   • If using a USB: Plug in the USB drive and boot from it.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10.

Remember, before booting from the installation media, ensure the boot order in your PC's BIOS or UEFI settings prioritizes the DVD or USB drive above the hard drive.