How do I do a clean install of Windows 11?

How to Perform a Clean Install of Windows 11

Upgrading or installing a new operating system can often feel like a daunting task, especially when it comes to making sure everything runs smoothly. A clean install of Windows 11 is a great way to start fresh with your operating system, ensuring that you remove all old files and configurations. Whether you’re facing performance issues or simply want a new beginning, this guide will walk you through the steps of conducting a clean install of Windows 11.

Preparing for Installation

Before diving into the installation process, ensure that you’ve taken several important steps to avoid any complications.

1. Backup Your Data: A clean install means losing all your existing data, so it’s crucial to back up any important files. Use an external hard drive, USB stick, or cloud storage to save documents, photos, and other files you don’t want to lose.
2. Create a Windows 11 Installation Media:

• Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Windows 11 installation tool.
• Launch the tool and select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC.”
• Choose your language, edition, and architecture (64-bit).
• Insert a USB drive (minimum 8GB) into your PC. Select this USB drive when prompted and let the tool create the installation media.

Performing the Clean Install

With your installation media ready, it’s time to start the clean installation process.

1. Boot from the USB Drive:

• Insert your USB drive into the PC where you want to install Windows 11.
• Restart the computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing keys like F2, F10, Del, or Esc — the specific key will vary by manufacturer).
• In the boot menu, set your USB drive as the primary boot device and save the changes.

1. Start the Installation:

• After booting from the USB drive, you’ll see a Windows logo followed by a setup screen.
• Choose your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click “Next.”
• Click “Install now,” and if prompted, enter your Windows 11 product key. If you don’t have one, you can select the option to install without a product key.

1. Choose Installation Type:

• When prompted, choose the “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” option for a clean installation.
• You’ll now see a list of partitions. It’s advisable to delete all old partitions to ensure a clean slate. Select each partition and click “Delete.” Be cautious not to delete system reserved or recovery partitions unless you’re sure you want to.

1. Select Unallocated Space:

• After deleting the partitions, select the unallocated space (this is your entire hard drive) and click “Next.” Windows will create the necessary partitions and start the installation.

1. Personalize Your Settings:

• After the installation finishes, you’ll go through a setup process that includes configuring your preferences, signing in with a Microsoft account, and setting privacy options.

1. Install Drivers and Updates:

• Once your desktop appears, ensure to install necessary drivers and Windows updates to keep your system running smoothly.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully performed a clean install of Windows 11. A clean install can significantly enhance your system’s performance by removing unnecessary files and applications. To keep your new setup running at its best, make a habit of routine backups and regular system maintenance. Enjoy exploring all the new features Windows 11 offers!