Windows 10: Clean installation without CD via USB or ISO - how it works

If you don't just want to reset Windows 10, but want to install it completely clean, you can do this without a CD via USB or ISO file. We'll show you how it's done.

Step 1: Download Windows 10 for Clean-Install

• First, you need to download the correct Windows 10 ISO file. You have the choice between Windows 10 Home and Windows 10 Pro.
• If you already have Windows 10 installed on your computer, you will of course need the same version. In the following practical tip we will show you how to find out the current version of Windows.
• Whether home or pro, you always have the choice between a 32- and 64-bit version. As a rule, you should use the 64-bit version, 32-bit should be used on slower and older devices.

Step 2: Install Windows 10 directly using a clean install

• Once you have downloaded the ISO file, you can simply open the file with a double click. As a rule, the ISO file is opened directly in Explorer.
• If you start the "setup.exe" file contained therein, the installation is prepared. For a clean install, select the option "Keep no data" during the installation.

Windows 10: Start clean installation via USB stick

• Alternatively, you can install Windows 10 using a USB stick. This is particularly worthwhile if you only have limited access to a computer.
• To do this, insert a USB stick with enough storage space into your computer and form the USB stick first. Alternatively, you can also use an empty external hard drive.
• Now open the ISO file and copy all the files and folders contained on the USB stick. Alternatively, you can also use free software such as ISO to USB.
• Insert the USB stick into the desired computer and start it. Now the installation of Windows 10 should start. If this is not the case, you have to change the boot order again in the BIOS.