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Installing Windows 10 with Rufus: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to install Windows 10 from a downloaded image, using Rufus is an excellent option. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it:
Prerequisites
- A valid Windows 10 installation media (USB drive or CD/DVD)
- Rufus installed and configured
- A compatible computer with Windows 10
Step 1: Prepare Your Computer
Before you begin, make sure your computer is powered on and connected to the internet. You’ll need an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi connection to download the installation media.
Step 2: Insert the Installation Media
Insert the Rufus USB drive or CD/DVD into a free slot on your computer. Make sure it’s recognized by Rufus, which should happen automatically if everything is set up correctly.
Step 3: Boot from the Downloaded Image
To boot from the Rufus-recognized media, follow these steps:
- Restart your computer.
- Immediately press F12 or F2 to enter the BIOS settings (this step varies depending on your motherboard manufacturer).
- Look for a “Boot Order” or “Advanced Settings” option and set it to prioritize the USB drive over the hard drive.
Step 4: Set Up Your Boot Options
In the BIOS settings, you should now see the Rufus-recognized media as an option. Select it and click “Save and Exit”. This will save your changes and exit the BIOS setup.
Step 5: Enter the Installation Media
The computer should now boot from the installation media. You’ll see a Windows logo, followed by the Windows 10 installation screen. Click “Next” to proceed.
Step 6: Choose Your Language and Locale
On the next screen, select your preferred language and locale (time zone). Follow the prompts to complete the setup process.
Step 7: Select the Installation Drive
You’ll now see a list of available drives on your computer. Select the USB drive where Rufus installed Windows 10. If you want to install it from an external drive, make sure it’s accessible via USB.
Step 8: Accept the License Agreement and Terms
Read through the license agreement and check the box to accept the terms. You may be prompted for additional information (such as your name, email address, or payment details).
Step 9: Install Windows 10
Click “Install now” to begin the installation process.
Step 10: Wait for Installation Complete
The installation will take several minutes to complete. During this time, you’ll see a progress bar on the screen. Once the installation is finished, you’ll see a final welcome screen with instructions on how to activate your Windows license.
Tips and Variations
- Make sure Rufus is configured correctly in the BIOS settings before starting the installation.
- If you have trouble booting from the USB drive or CD/DVD, ensure that it’s securely inserted and not damaged.
- You can also use other tools like Windows 10 Setup Assistant or Media Creation Tool to create a custom installation media.
With these steps, you should be able to successfully install Windows 10 from a downloaded image using Rufus. If you encounter any issues during the process, refer to online forums or seek support from Microsoft or Rufus community members for assistance.
