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How to Install Windows 10 from USB from BIOS?

Published in Windows Installation 5 mins read

Installing Windows 10 from a bootable USB drive requires you to tell your computer to start from the USB stick instead of its hard drive. This is done by accessing and modifying the boot order settings within your computer's BIOS or UEFI firmware.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install Windows 10 by configuring your system to boot from a USB drive via BIOS/UEFI:

Preparing for Installation

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

  • A bootable Windows 10 USB drive (created using the Media Creation Tool or similar).
  • The computer where you want to install Windows 10.

Accessing BIOS/UEFI and Changing Boot Order

The core of installing from USB via BIOS is accessing the system's firmware settings and prioritizing the USB drive.

  1. Insert the bootable USB drive into the computer where you want to install Windows. Make sure it's securely plugged into a USB port. Using a port directly on the motherboard (rear ports on a desktop) is often recommended.

  2. Restart the computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings. As your computer starts up, you'll typically see a message on the screen indicating which key to press to enter Setup, BIOS, or UEFI. Common keys include F2, Del, F10, F12, or Esc. Press this key repeatedly as soon as you turn on the computer. The specific key varies by motherboard manufacturer (e.g., Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI).

    • Tip: If you miss the prompt, restart your computer and try pressing the key again.
    • Modern Windows (UEFI): On Windows 10, you can often access UEFI settings from within Windows via Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings.

  3. Locate the boot order settings and move the USB drive to the top of the list. Once inside the BIOS/UEFI utility, navigate through the menus to find settings related to "Boot," "Boot Order," "Boot Priority," or "Boot Sequence." The interface varies greatly between manufacturers and BIOS/UEFI versions.

    • Identifying the USB: Your USB drive might be listed by its brand name, model number, or simply as "USB Device," "Removable Media," or "Hard Drive" (if it's emulating a hard drive).
    • Changing Order: Use the keys indicated on the screen (often +, -, arrow keys, or F5/F6) to rearrange the boot devices. The goal is to place your USB drive as the first device in the boot sequence.
    • UEFI Specifics: In some modern UEFI interfaces, you might be able to drag and drop boot devices or select a specific boot override from a temporary menu (often accessed via F12 during startup).

  4. Save your settings and exit the BIOS or UEFI. Look for an option like "Save and Exit," "Exit Saving Changes," or similar. This is often tied to a function key like F10. Confirm any prompts asking if you want to save the configuration changes.

Starting the Windows Installation

Once you save and exit BIOS/UEFI with the USB set as the first boot device, your computer will restart. If the bootable USB was created correctly and the BIOS/UEFI settings are correct, the computer will now boot from the USB drive, and the Windows 10 installation process will begin.

Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation, including selecting language, keyboard layout, accepting terms, choosing installation type (upgrade or custom), and selecting the drive/partition for installation.

BIOS vs. UEFI

While the general goal (changing boot order) is the same, BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) and UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) are different types of firmware. UEFI is newer, offering more features like faster boot times, support for larger hard drives (GPT partitions), and a more graphical interface compared to the text-based BIOS. The steps to navigate and change settings within them can look quite different, but the principle of setting the USB as the first boot device remains consistent.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Wrong Boot Key: If the common keys don't work, check your computer's manual or the manufacturer's website for the correct key to enter BIOS/UEFI.
  • USB Not Recognized: Ensure the USB is properly formatted and contains the correct Windows 10 installation files. Try a different USB port. Some BIOS/UEFI settings might require enabling "USB Legacy Support."
  • Secure Boot/CSM: If using UEFI, you might need to temporarily disable "Secure Boot" or enable "CSM" (Compatibility Support Module) to boot from certain types of USB drives, especially if they are formatted for legacy BIOS. Re-enable these after installation if necessary.

By following these steps, particularly by accessing BIOS/UEFI and moving the USB drive to the top of the boot order as referenced, you can successfully initiate the Windows 10 installation from your bootable USB stick.

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