Before You Format Start
- Backup Important Files
- Copy your personal files (Documents, Photos, etc.) to a USB drive or cloud storage.
- Have a Bootable USB Ready
- Use another PC to make a Windows installation USB (use Rufus or Media Creation Tool).
- Minimum 8GB pen drive required.
- Know Your Product Key (optional if Windows 10/11 digital license is linked to your Microsoft account).
⚙️ Step-by-Step Formatting Process
Step 1: Insert Bootable USB
- Plug the Windows bootable USB into your computer.
Step 2: Enter Boot Menu
- Restart your PC.
- Press Boot Key repeatedly during startup:
- Dell → F12
- HP → Esc or F9
- Lenovo → F12
- Acer → F12
- Asus → Esc or F8
- (Different for each brand)
Step 3: Boot from USB
- Select your USB drive from the boot menu and press Enter.
Step 4: Start Windows Setup
- Choose your Language, Time, and Keyboard, then click Next.
- Click Install Now.
Step 5: Enter Product Key
- Enter the Windows key (or click I don’t have a product key if you’ll activate later).
Step 6: Select Windows Edition
- Choose the correct version (e.g., Windows 10 Pro, Home).
Step 7: Choose Installation Type
- Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
Step 8: Delete Old Partitions
- You’ll see partitions (C:, D:, etc.).
⚠️ Delete all partitions under the drive where Windows is installed.
(Usually named Drive 0).
- Select → Delete → OK
- After deleting, you’ll see Unallocated Space.
- Select it → Click Next.
Step 9: Installation Begins
- Windows will now copy files and install automatically.
- Your PC may restart several times. Don’t remove the USB yet.
Step 10: First-Time Setup
- After installation, choose region, keyboard, and connect to Wi-Fi.
- Create a user name and password.
- Log in with or without a Microsoft account.
Step 11: Install Drivers & Updates
- Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
- Install missing drivers (graphics, sound, Wi-Fi, etc.) if needed.
- You can also download from your laptop/PC brand’s official website.
Step 12: Install Software
- Install your required apps (Chrome, MS Office, antivirus, etc.).
✅ Your computer is now freshly formatted!
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