How to Install Windows 10 Without a Pen Drive

The traditional method of installing Windows 10 involves using a USB drive or a DVD as a bootable installation media. However, if you don't have access to these, there are alternative methods that you can use to get Windows 10 installed on your system. This guide will help you install Windows 10 without a pen drive.

Using the Media Creation Tool with an ISO File

To install Windows 10 without a pen drive, you can use the Media Creation Tool provided by Microsoft. This tool can create an ISO file that you can use to install Windows 10 on your system. Here are the steps:

Open the Media Creation Tool on your existing Windows 10 system. If you are not running an OS, you can download and install this tool on another PC with a compatible operating system. Select the 'Create installation media for another PC' option and choose the ISO file format. Download the ISO file and save it to a suitable location on your hard drive. Mount the ISO file using a virtual drive software like Daemon Tools or ImgBurn. Open the ISO file and navigate to the 'Source' folder. Run the 'setup.exe' file. Follow the instructions provided in the installation wizard to complete the installation process.

Installing Windows 10 Without a Current OS

If you do not have a compatible operating system on your PC, you have two primary options:

Purchasing a New USB Drive

One straightforward solution is to buy a new USB drive. USB drives are typically inexpensive and can be used to create a bootable Windows installation media. You can use any operating system to create a bootable USB drive with the help of tools like Rufus or the Windows USB/DVD Tool.

Using PXE Boot (Preboot eXecution Environment)

Another alternative is to use PXE boot. PXE allows you to install Windows from a network server without the need for a physical bootable USB drive. However, this method requires setting up a server and network environment, which may be more complex for the average user.

Alternative Solutions for Flash Drive users

If you prefer to use a bootable flash drive, make sure the flash drive is formatted with the FAT file system. You can use tools like EaseUS Todo, WinToHDD, or WinToUSB to create a bootable Windows installation drive.

For older computers that require a specific file system, you may need to ensure that the flash drive is formatted correctly. This can usually be done through the flash drive's formatting utility or third-party software.

Retrospective: The Decline of Optical Drives and CDs

In the past, many computers and laptops came with built-in optical drives, and CDs were commonly used for installing Windows OS. However, with the rise of digital mediums, manufacturers have largely discontinued the inclusion of optical drives in new devices. CDs are also becoming harder to find. Therefore, it is now common to install Windows 10 using a bootable USB drive.

Conclusion: Installing Windows 10 Without a CD

In summary, if you want to install Windows 10 without a pen drive, you can use the Media Creation Tool to create an ISO file, mount it, and follow the installation instructions. Alternatively, you can purchase a new USB drive or set up PXE boot. For older systems, make sure the flash drive is FAT formatted.

Follow the steps outlined in this guide to ensure a smooth Windows 10 installation experience. If you encounter any issues, refer to the official Microsoft documentation or seek support from online forums and communities.