I've just wiped out all the operating systems on my laptop in favor of installing Linux Mint, but I ran into some trouble when trying to switch back to Windows. I followed a tutorial to remove Linux Mint from my Aspire Lite 16 and tried to install Windows 10 using a USB flash drive I created with Rufus. Unfortunately, I keep getting an error (0x800700D) when I try to install, and it halts at the installation screen. Now I have no operating system on my computer and I don't have access to another computer or USB drive. What can I do to get Windows installed?
5 Answers
First, make sure your USB drive is bootable. You might need to reformat it and use the Windows Media Creation Tool instead of Rufus to make a proper installation drive. Just follow the prompts on their site to get it set up right. After that, try booting from the USB again to see if the installation works this time!
If you're stuck without a second computer, consider visiting your local library. Most of them have public computers that you can use to create the bootable USB. You'll just need to download the Windows installation tool from Microsoft's site and follow the steps from there.
Make sure you're using a USB drive that's at least 16GB, as some say the 8GB might be too small for Windows 10. Also, when you’re in your BIOS settings, double-check that your USB drive is set to boot first. If everything’s correct, it should run the installer.
Yeah, Windows actually needs a chunk of space to work its magic, and going with a bigger USB will help avoid unnecessary headaches.
Also, consider that if you have Android access, there are apps that can help you create a bootable USB from your phone. I used one before when I hit installation roadblocks, so it’s worth looking into if you’re really stuck!
Before you try installing Windows again, use the BIOS to wipe any partitions. That might resolve some installation issues. Once you’ve cleared it, boot from the USB again and see what happens! Just remember to choose 'clean install' during the setup process for a fresh start.
Yeah, definitely give the Media Creation Tool a shot. It simplifies things a lot compared to Rufus for Windows installs.