Windows 10 home download usb

If you can't install major Windows 10 updates (such as the Creators Update) directly onto your PC - either because you don't have space for the large file, or because you're encountering errors in the installation process - then it's possible to install Windows 10 updates from a USB drive or from an SD memory card inserted into the card reader slot.

The process requires a little patience, but it isn't too difficult to follow.

As ever with major system updates, it's worth performing a full file and system backup first, just in case anything goes wrong with the installation process.

See our guide to creating a backup of your PC

Get the Windows Media Creation Tool

Download Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool (which downloads Windows 10) from Microsoft's website. Choose 32-bit or 64-bit, depending on your system.

Not sure if your system is 32-bit or 64-bit? No problem – see our guide on how to check your system properties.

Once downloaded, double-click the tool’s exe file. Tick Create installation media for another PC then Next.

Create a Windows 10 installation USB

You'll be asked whether you want to create a USB flash drive (you’ll need to insert one with 4GB or more free space) or an ISO file, which you can turn into an installation DVD. Choose the USB option (it's much more straightforward) and click Next.

Select your USB drive from the list and click Next. You’ll then need to wait while the Windows 10 update downloads, which can take a fair while, depending on your internet connection.

Start the Windows 10 upgrade

When finished, navigate to the USB drive and double-click setup.exe to begin the Windows 10 upgrade process. Follow all the on-screen prompts until you see a message saying Installing Windows 10.

As soon as your computer restarts, remove the USB drive then follow the remaining prompts to complete the installation.