It's fine to use your original Windows 10 USB to make a fresh installation USB.
It's fine to use your original Windows 10 USB to make a fresh installation USB.
I own Windows 10 Pro. The package included an installation USB and a card with the product key. Because the Windows 10 in the USB is standard and needs many updates, I wondered if I could format the USB and use the official Windows Media Creation Tool to create a fresh Windows 10 installation USB. I’m sure the product key card is essential, but I just wanted to confirm.
The product key is crucial. I don’t see any unusual content in the USB, and I’ve successfully used the media creation tool before.
When I tried reusing it, it returned a 32-bit version even though my key is 64-bit Pro. It’s best to stick with this method; perform a fresh installation and avoid internet access during setup until you move it to your desktop. If needed, turn off all spyware temporarily, then allow some for your use, and finally connect via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, install Windows updates, and only then open any apps or files. Official USB and key should generally work without issues.
It should function, but the Windows edition will be very outdated, requiring extensive time for updates. Not advised.
The official Windows 10 USB is locked (write-protected), making it impossible to modify the installation drive. I’ll need a different USB to proceed.
When you download Wins 10, you'll find multiple versions of Windows on the USB drive. Be sure to use the one that came with the key.