Setting up Windows on a fresh system
Setting up Windows on a fresh system
Create a bootable Windows USB by using the official Microsoft instructions. After generating the media, insert it into your PC and press the boot option before starting. Then follow the prompts to install Windows.
Yep, it's pretty easy nowadays. Personally I use other tools for creating bootable USB media. One is called YUMI and the other is called Rufus. Both work fine IIRC (as well as the microsoft supported way of course, but YUMI and Rufus support multiple different things to boot from so you can have like a live linux distro on there as well as windows installer (I think.))
Ensure you select the correct tool for creating media instead of the ISO file.
After completing your setup, proceed with the following steps: Access the BIOS/UEFI settings and verify the following configurations (menus may vary by board, consult your manual): X.M.P – also known as D.O.C.P or EXPO on AMD – set to Extreme Memory Profile, choosing Profile 1 (usually the only option; adjust if multiple profiles exist and match your RAM). Ensure the Date & Time is accurate. UEFI must be enabled (often labeled as “Enable Windows <version> Support” or similar, unrelated to Windows version). Disable Secure Boot unless your hardware supports it. Set ReBAR to Enabled (check for “4G support” if needed). Confirm TPM is enabled (fTPM, Intel PTT, dTPM or Pluton). Fast Boot should be activated. POST Delay should be 0 seconds. Arrange boot priority: main drive first, then USB flash drive. Disconnect any unused peripherals to minimize drivers and speed up startup. Remember, Windows Setup will install its bootloader on the first detected drive—so if you installed it on an NVMe, the system might report a different port. To prevent issues, unplug secondary drives while the system is powered off. Once installed, disable unused hardware to streamline the process.
Next, use the Microsoft Media Creation Tool (download from the official site) to install Windows 11. After setup, insert your USB drive—preferably at least 8GB—and ensure it’s formatted correctly. Avoid storing sensitive data on the drive, as it will be erased during installation. Follow the installation wizard carefully. When prompted, select “UEFI” or “EFI boot” if available. After completion, power on the system and it should launch from the USB device. Choose the option that begins with “UEFI” in the boot menu to ensure proper startup.