It is possible to perform a clean installation of Windows 11 instead of layering the operating system on top of another through updates or similar schemes. This procedure is also a good choice for anyone who has formatted a computer or laptop and wants to get an updated version of Windows on it.
You will also need a flash drive with at least 8GB of free space. If there is something important in it, save it on another device so you don’t lose anything.
Windows 11 operating requirements
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Another essential point before installing Windows 11 cleanly is to check if your computer or laptop meets the requirements asked by Microsoft. The operating system is compatible with devices containing the following elements:
- Processor: Dual core (64 bit) 1 GHz
- Storage: 64 GB
- RAM: 4 GB RAM
- Screen: 9 inches and resolution 1366 x 768
- DirectX: Version 12
- Security: TPM 2.0 module
- Internet connection.
There is also a solution that allows you to check Windows 11 compatibility on your device automatically. By the way, check out the tutorial from Canaltech Teaching you how to see all your computer settings, if you don’t know the hardware and software on your computer.
How to create a bootable flash drive using Windows 11
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As mentioned earlier, you will need a flash drive of 8GB or more to make it bootable and thus install Windows 11 cleanly. Additionally, you need a license to install Windows 11.
The golden tip is to keep an eye on Canaltech Ofertas to buy a brand new license (when it appears there) and still save a few bucks. However, here’s how to perform all these operations:
- Visit Microsoft’s website (Microsoft.com);
- Click “Download now” in the “Create Windows 11 installation media” section;
- Go to your Downloads folder and open the installation file;
- Grant administrator access to the application;
- Click on “Accept” the terms of use of the system;
- Select the language and version of Windows 11;
- Select “USB flash drive” and click “Next”;
- Click on your pendrive and click “Next”;
- Click Next once the Windows 11 media download and creation on pendrive is complete.
It is worth noting that it is recommended not to remove the flash drive or turn off the computer during the process, as this may lead to file corruption. Eventually, all installation components will be integrated into the pendrive.
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How to install Windows 11 cleanly
Now that your flash drive is bootable, you can perform a clean installation of Windows 11. However, you need to configure your computer to start from a USB port, so that the system can access the installer.
To do this, simply turn on the device and press F2, F12, Del or Esc for a few seconds (the key will depend on the brand of motherboard of your computer).
Another option is to access BIOS directly through Windows Settings. Just follow this path: Start Menu > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Restart Now > Troubleshooting > Advanced Options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart.
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Then just go to boot options, choose the USB port and reboot the device.
You can find more information about this in the tutorial on how to create a bootable drive to use when installing Windows. After resolving this issue, simply continue with the Windows 11 customization installation. Do the following:
- Language selection, time/currency format and keyboard input;
- Enter your license key and click Next (if you don’t have the key right now, you can do this later);
- Select the version of Windows 11 you want (remember that you need to choose the version for which you have a key);
- Click the box to accept the license terms and “Next”;
- Select the option “Custom: Install Windows only (Advanced)”;
- Choose the location where you want to install Windows 11;
- Customize your preferences as soon as you turn on the system for the first time.
Ready, Windows 11 is installed correctly and without any traces of previous operating systems. If you prefer something more practical, you can just update your computer to Windows 11 and use the software to remove old files.
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