Are you looking to install Windows from BIOS? If you’re experiencing issues with your current operating system, or simply want a fresh start, installing Windows from BIOS is a great option. This article will guide you through the process, step-by-step.
Before we dive in, let’s discuss what BIOS is and its role in installing Windows. Basic Input/Output System, or BIOS, is firmware that initializes hardware during the boot-up process. BIOS is responsible for detecting and initializing core hardware components, such as the processor, memory, and hard drive. It’s also responsible for running the pre-boot system environment, which includes system diagnostics and firmware configuration.
Installing Windows from BIOS involves configuring your computer’s BIOS settings to prioritize booting from a bootable USB or DVD. Once you’ve done this, you can insert your Windows installation media and follow the prompts to install Windows.
Before you begin the installation process, it’s essential to prepare your computer and data. Here are some steps to ensure a smooth installation:
Back up Important Files and Data
Before installing Windows from BIOS, it’s crucial to back up all important files and data. This includes documents, pictures, videos, and any other files you don’t want to lose. Backing up your data ensures that you can restore it if anything goes wrong during the installation process.
There are several ways to back up your data. You can use an external hard drive or USB drive, cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox, or even burn your data to a DVD.
Create a Bootable USB or DVD
To install Windows from BIOS, you’ll need a bootable USB or DVD. A bootable USB or DVD contains the necessary files and programs to install Windows on your computer.
Creating a bootable USB or DVD is straightforward. You can use Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB or DVD. The Media Creation Tool creates a bootable USB or DVD and downloads the necessary files from Microsoft’s servers.
Access BIOS Settings
To access your computer’s BIOS settings, you’ll need to restart your computer and press a specific key during the boot-up process. The key you need to press varies depending on your computer’s manufacturer and model.
Common keys to access BIOS settings include F2, F10, Del, and Esc. Consult your computer’s manual or manufacturer’s website for more information on how to access BIOS settings.
Configure BIOS Settings
Now that you’ve prepared your computer and created a bootable USB or DVD, it’s time to configure your computer’s BIOS settings. Here are the steps to configure your BIOS settings for installing Windows:
Change Boot Order to Prioritize USB or DVD
The first step is to change your computer’s boot order to prioritize the bootable USB or DVD. To do this, restart your computer and access your computer’s BIOS settings by pressing the appropriate key during boot-up.
Once you’re in the BIOS settings, look for the Boot menu or tab. In the Boot menu, you’ll see a list of boot devices. Use the arrow keys to move the bootable USB or DVD to the top of the list. This ensures that your computer boots from the USB or DVD and not the hard drive.
Enable Legacy Boot Mode if Necessary
If your computer uses UEFI firmware, you may need to enable Legacy Boot Mode to boot from the bootable USB or DVD. Legacy Boot Mode allows your computer to boot from devices that use BIOS firmware.
To enable Legacy Boot Mode, navigate to the BIOS settings and look for the Boot menu or tab. In the Boot menu, look for an option called Legacy Boot or CSM (Compatibility Support Module). Enable this option to allow your computer to boot from devices that use BIOS firmware.
Disable Secure Boot and Fast Boot
Secure Boot and Fast Boot are features of UEFI firmware that improve the security and speed of your computer’s boot process. However, these features can prevent your computer from booting from a bootable USB or DVD.
To disable Secure Boot and Fast Boot, navigate to the BIOS settings and look for the Security menu or tab. In the Security menu, look for an option called Secure Boot or Fast Boot. Disable these options to allow your computer to boot from a bootable USB or DVD.
Install Windows
Once you’ve configured your computer’s BIOS settings, you’re ready to install Windows. Here’s how to install Windows from BIOS:
Insert the Bootable USB or DVD
Insert the bootable USB or DVD into your computer’s USB or DVD drive. If you’ve configured your BIOS settings correctly, your computer will boot from the USB or DVD.
Follow the Prompts to Install Windows
Once your computer boots from the USB or DVD, Windows Setup will start. Follow the prompts to install Windows. You’ll be prompted to choose your language, time zone, and keyboard layout.
Choose Installation Options and Customize Settings
Finally, you’ll be prompted to choose your installation options and customize your settings. You can choose between a custom or express installation, and you can customize settings like privacy, updates, and network settings.
Once you’ve chosen your installation options and customized your settings, Windows will begin installing. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on your computer’s hardware and the version of Windows you’re installing.
Post-Installation Tasks
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed Windows from BIOS. However, there are a few post-installation tasks you need to complete to ensure your computer is up-to-date and running smoothly.
Install Drivers and Updates
After installing Windows, you’ll need to install the necessary drivers and updates to ensure your computer’s hardware is working correctly. Drivers are software components that allow your computer’s hardware to communicate with the operating system. Without the right drivers, your computer’s hardware may not function correctly.
To install drivers and updates, you can use Windows Update or visit your computer manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers. It’s important to keep your drivers and operating system up-to-date to ensure your computer is secure and running smoothly.
Activate Windows
After installing Windows, you’ll need to activate it to verify that your copy of Windows is genuine. Activation is a simple process that requires an internet connection. During the installation process, you’ll be prompted to enter your product key. If you don’t have a product key, you can purchase one from Microsoft’s website.
To activate Windows, go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation. If Windows isn’t activated, click on the “Activate” button and follow the prompts.
Set up User Accounts and Preferences
After activating Windows, you can set up user accounts and preferences. User accounts allow multiple users to use the same computer while keeping their files and settings separate. You can create a new user account by going to Settings > Accounts > Family & other people and clicking on the “Add someone else to this PC” button.
You can also customize your computer’s settings and preferences, such as changing the desktop background, adjusting power settings, and configuring security settings.
Troubleshooting
While installing Windows from BIOS is generally a smooth process, there may be some issues that you encounter. Here are some common issues and solutions during BIOS installation:
Bootable USB or DVD not recognized
If your computer isn’t recognizing your bootable USB or DVD, you may need to change the boot order in your BIOS settings. Ensure that your bootable USB or DVD is inserted before you start your computer, and go to the BIOS settings to change the boot order to prioritize the USB or DVD.
Installation stalls or freezes
If your installation stalls or freezes, try restarting your computer and attempting the installation again. If the issue persists, try disconnecting any unnecessary hardware and disabling any antivirus software.
Resources for Further Help and Support
If you encounter any issues during the installation process, there are several resources available for further help and support. You can visit Microsoft’s support website, contact your computer manufacturer’s support team, or seek help from online forums and communities. With these resources, you can troubleshoot any issues and successfully install Windows from BIOS.
