Today, we are looking into the problems with Windows 10 installation.

Most Frequent Problems With Windows 10 Install

So, why won’t Windows 10 install? The most frequent problems encountered during Windows 10 installation are:

  • Incompatible Hardware
  • Software Compatibility
  • Installation Errors and Failures
  • Driver Issues
  • Activation and Product Key Problems
  • Windows Update and Upgrade Issues
  • Disk Partitioning and Formatting Challenges

Let’s look into some possible fixes.

Windows 10 Won’t Install: Fixes

Before we get into more complex solutions, let’s get some basics out of the way.

First, make sure you have enough space on your PC; otherwise, the installation is likely to fail. To install Windows 10, you need at least:

  • 16 GB of free space to upgrade a 32-bit OS;
  • 20 GB of free space to upgrade a 64-bit OS.

To free up some drive space, you should:

To free up some drive space to fix problems with Windows Installation


Quick Fix: How to Free Up Space on PC With Windows Disk Cleanup


If you’ve freed up space on your PC but Windows 10 still won’t install, try the fixes below:

Problem #1: Incompatible Hardware

Some hardware components may not meet the minimum requirements for Windows 10, causing installation problems.

Verify System Requirements:

Update Hardware Drivers:

  • Visit the manufacturer’s website for each hardware component (graphics card, chipset, etc.).
  • Download and install the latest drivers compatible with Windows 10.
  • Or use Driver Updater to install all drivers in time and automatically.

Quick Fix: [EASY GUIDE] How to Update Device Drivers on a Windows 10 PC?


Replace Incompatible Hardware

  • Identify the specific hardware component causing compatibility issues.
  • Consider replacing it with a compatible alternative or upgrading to a newer model.

Problem #2: Incompatible Software

Certain software applications or drivers may not be compatible with Windows 10, resulting in errors or installation failures. Here’s what to do:

Check Software Compatibility

  • Visit the software manufacturer’s website or support page to verify compatibility with Windows 10.
  • Look for updated versions or patches specifically designed for Windows 10.

Uninstall Incompatible Software

  • If incompatible software is detected, uninstall it from the current operating system.
  • Restart the system and proceed with the Windows 10 installation.

Related: How to Uninstall Programs and Delete Unnecessary Files


Install Updated Software

  • Download the latest versions of software applications compatible with Windows 10 from the official sources.
  • Install the software after completing the Windows 10 installation.

Problem #3: Installation Errors and Failures

Installation errors and failures, such as “Windows could not complete the installation,” can occur due to various reasons. Here’s what you can do:

Check Installation Media:

  • Ensure the installation media (USB/DVD) is not damaged or corrupted.
  • Try using a different USB port or burn a new installation DVD if needed.

Verify Disk Space

  • Make sure you have enough free space on the disk where you’re installing Windows 10.
  • Remove unnecessary files or consider expanding the disk space if required.

Also Read: How to Get More Disk Space on a PC or Laptop


Disconnect Non-Essential Devices

  • Unplug any external devices connected to the computer, such as printers, scanners, or external hard drives.
  • Keep only essential devices, such as the keyboard and mouse, during the installation process.

Perform Clean Boot

  • Temporarily disable startup programs and non-Microsoft services using the System Configuration tool.
  • Restart the computer and attempt the Windows 10 installation again.

Try Another Installation Method

Create a bootable USB drive using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.

  • Boot from the USB drive and proceed with the installation.

If you can’t install Windows 10 from a USB, move on to the next solution. 

Problem: #4 Driver Issues

Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause problems during installation or after the installation is complete.


Fix: Please see problem #1.


You can also update your drivers automatically using Auslogics Driver Updater. Here’s how:

  • Download and install Auslogics Driver Updater from the official website.
  • Launch the program by double-clicking its desktop icon or finding it in your Start menu.
  • Once the program is open, it will automatically start scanning your system for outdated drivers.
  • Wait for the scan to complete. It will display a list of outdated drivers found on your computer.

Update your drivers automatically using Auslogics Driver Updater

  • Review the list of outdated drivers and check the ones you want to update. You can select all drivers or choose specific ones.
  • Click on the “Update Drivers” button to initiate the driver update process.
  • Auslogics Driver Updater will start downloading and installing the latest versions of the selected drivers.
  • Depending on the number of drivers being updated, the process may take some time. Ensure that your internet connection remains stable during the update.
  • Once the update is complete, you will be prompted to restart your computer to apply the changes.
  • Restart your computer as directed.
  • After rebooting, Auslogics Driver Updater may perform a final scan to ensure all drivers are up to date.

Also Read: How to Fix 0xC1900101 Driver Errors in Windows 10 Creators Update?


Problem #5: Activation and Product Key Problems.

Sometimes you may have issues installing Windows because there is something off with the product key.

Troubleshoot activation and product key issues:

  • Ensure that you have entered the correct product key for Windows 10 activation.
  • Check internet connectivity as activation requires an internet connection.
  • Activate via Settings: Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Activation” and click on “Change product key” if you need to update or re-enter the product key.
  • Use the Activation Troubleshooter: Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Activation” and click on “Troubleshoot” to run the Activation Troubleshooter
  • If the activation problem persists, contact Microsoft support for further assistance.

Also Read: Solving ‘We can’t activate Windows on this device’ error


Problem #6: Windows Update and Upgrade Issues

Sometimes you can’t install Windows because your current Windows version is itself not up to date. In this case, you will need to update your current Windows to the latest available version first.

Fix: Troubleshoot Windows update and upgrade problems.

  • Check for Windows updates: Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update” and click on “Check for updates” to ensure your system is up to date.

Check for Windows updates to Solve Problems With Windows 10 Installation

  • Run Windows Update Troubleshooter: Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Troubleshoot” and select “Windows Update” to run the troubleshooter, which can help identify and resolve common update issues.
  • Pause and resume updates: If updates are stuck or taking a long time, you can try pausing and resuming the updates in the Windows Update settings.
  • Clear Windows Update cache: Use the “Windows Update Troubleshooter” or run the following commands in an elevated Command Prompt:

net stop wuauserv

net stop bits

net stop cryptSvc

net stop msiserver

ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old

ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old

net start wuauserv

net start bits

net start cryptSvc

net start msiserver

  • Perform a clean installation: If all else fails, you can perform a clean installation of Windows by creating a bootable USB drive using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.

Also Read: How to Get And Use Windows 10 Media Creation Tool


Problem #7: Disk Partitioning and Formatting Challenges

Disk fragmentation and formatting challenges can also prevent a Windows 10 installation.

Fix: Troubleshoot disk partitioning and formatting problems

  • Use Disk Management: Press Win + X and select “Disk Management” from the menu.
  • Check disk health: Run a disk health check using built-in tools like CHKDSK or third-party disk diagnostic tools to identify any issues with the disk. 
  • Backup data: Before making any changes to disk partitions or formatting, ensure that you have backed up important data to avoid data loss.
  • Resize or delete partitions: In Disk Management, right-click on a partition and select options like “Resize,” “Delete,” or “Format” to manage the disk layout according to your needs.
  • Use a professional and free defragger like Auslogics Disk Defrag to consolidate free space on your hard drive.

Use a professional and free defragger like Auslogics Disk Defrag to consolidate free space on your hard drive.


Also Read: What Does Defragging Do: Easy Explanation of Disk Defragmentation


In Summary

By following the provided solutions and being patient throughout the process, you can overcome these challenges and enjoy the benefits of a fully functional Windows 10 operating system. Remember to seek further assistance from technical support or online forums if needed, as expert guidance can be invaluable in resolving complex installation issues. 

FAQ:

How Do I Fix Windows 10 Installation Errors?

To fix Windows 10 installation errors, you can try the following steps:

  1. Ensure that the USB or DVD used for installation is not damaged or corrupted.
  2. Make sure your hardware meets the minimum requirements for Windows 10. Check the processor, RAM, and storage space compatibility.
  3. Update hardware drivers: install the latest drivers compatible with Windows 10.
  4. Uninstall incompatible software
  5. Perform a clean boot: Disable startup programs and non-Microsoft services using the System Configuration tool, then restart the computer and try the installation again.
  6. Disconnect non-essential devices: printers or external hard drives,
  7. Ensure you have enough free space on the disk where you’re installing Windows 10. Remove unnecessary files or expand the disk space if needed.
  8. If the error persists, create a bootable USB drive using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool

Why Is My Windows 10 Installation Stuck Or Taking a Long Time?

If your Windows 10 installation is not progressing or is taking a lot of time, it might be because your computer doesn’t meet the required specifications, the disk is slow, or there are conflicts with other software.

What Should I Do If Windows 10 Won’t Install Or Keeps Failing?

If Windows 10 won’t install or keeps failing, try these steps:

  • Check hardware compatibility.
  • Verify system requirements.
  • Update drivers.
  • Use Windows Update Troubleshooter.
  • Temporarily disable security software.
  • Clear temporary files.
  • Try a different installation method.
  • Perform a clean boot.
  • Seek assistance from Microsoft support.

Remember to back up your data before troubleshooting.

How Can I Resolve Compatibility Issues During Windows 10 Installation?

To resolve compatibility issues during Windows 10 installation:

  • Check hardware and software compatibility.
  • Update drivers and software to their latest versions.
  • Uninstall incompatible software.
  • Use compatibility mode for installation files.
  • Consider virtualization for persistent compatibility problems.