Hey everyone! My PC tower won't boot into Windows anymore, and I don't have a CD drive to do a fresh installation. I tried to reinstall Windows 10, but it asked for a product key that I don't have. The last USB stick I used for installation got corrupted and is no longer usable. I'm in Canada, so I'd like to know if I can still buy a USB version of Windows 10 or if there are any other options available to me without having to buy a new computer. Thanks!
3 Answers
You can actually install Windows without a key during setup. If your PC originally came with an OEM version of Windows, it should activate automatically once you connect to the internet. If you bought a key linked to a Microsoft account, you can enter it during setup as well. You might be able to get away with just that!
You should check out the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft. Just search for it online! Once you find it, you can download the Windows 10 ISO. You’ll need access to another PC to run the Media Creation Tool and create a USB installer. After you’ve created the USB, plug it into your current PC, and when prompted for a product key, just select "I don't have a product key". You’ll have a limited period to activate Windows after installation, but it’ll work in the meantime.
Just a heads up, Windows 10 reaches end of life in a couple of months. You might want to consider installing Windows 11 instead when you get your USB!
I was thinking about a free USB install. Might be worth looking into!
Unfortunately, none of those options are working for me during boot. I'm afraid I’ll still need a USB stick or to get a new computer.