Share this article
Improve this guide
Windows 10 Installation Has Failed [Easily FIXED]
Finish up installing Windows 10 in just a few simple steps
6 min. read
Updated onFebruary 29, 2024
updated onFebruary 29, 2024
Share this article
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Key notes
Upgrading from one version of Windows to another is usually seamless, you start the process and wait for it to finish. And while that’s usually the case, update issues can sometimes occur.
Namely, lots of users, after seemingly completing the installation, were prompted with theWindows 10 installation has failederror. They had to start again but the results were the same.
This can be a problem, especially if you’re eager to try the new version of Windows, but luckily, there are several methods you can use to fix it in no time.
To address this, we prepared a list of possible solutions that can come in handy. In case you’re still stuck with this installation error, make sure to check the steps we provided below.
What to do if Windows 10 installation has failed when using the Media Creation Tool?
IfWindows couldn’t be installed, then the issue is most likely your installation media. In that case, we recommended that you download the ISO again and recreate the bootable drive.
Many reported theirWindows 10 installation has failed in safe OS phase, and this occurs because certain installation components are damaged, so they’ll need to be created again.
Why Windows 10 installation failed?
There are several reasons why you might encounter this error message, and it usually appears due to installed components or security software.
Connected peripherals can also be a problem, so be sure to remove them before trying to install Windows. Lastly, file corruption could be the cause of this problem as well.
How do I fix Windows 10 installation failed?
As mentioned, many different factors can cause this error. Before we move on to tested ways you can fix this error, we recommend you run some preliminary checks, just to make sure the issue isn’t actually way simpler than you thought.
1. Unplug all peripheral devices
Before starting the update disconnect all your nonessential peripherals. This includes printers, gamepads, external drives, and similar devices.
After disconnecting them, start the upgrade process. If the process is successful, connect your devices again.
2. Uninstall the language pack
If you’re having any issues with this solution, be sure to visit our guide and see what to do if youcan’t remove keyboard language.
3. Uninstall third-party antivirus
4. Choose to keep only files when asked
5. Rebuild BCD
Another way to fix Windows installation failure is to rebuild the Boot Configuration Data. You can do this via the built-in command-line tool called Command Prompt.
-
Open theStart Menuand click thePowerbutton.
-
Press and hold theShiftkey and selectRestart.
-
Choose theTroubleshootoption.
-
SelectAdvanced options.
-
OpenCommand Prompt. Select your account and enter the password if asked.
-
Run the following commands one by one:bootrec /FixMbrbootrec /FixBootbootrec /ScanOsbootrec /RebuildBcd
-
This should finalize the repair procedure and you should be able to upgrade your PC without any problems.
6. Upgrade Windows 10 with installation media
7. Perform a clean install
What to do if Windows installation has failed on Windows 11?
For more information, we suggestvisiting our guide on how to enable TPM in different versions of BIOS.
What are Windows 11’s requirements?
If needed, you can eveninstall Windows 11 without TPM, but this might be a security risk, so it’s not recommended.
Which versions of Windows are affected by this issue?
Windows installation has failedmessage is a generic error, and as such, it can appear on almost any version of Windows.
All editions seem to be affected by this issue, and many have reportedWindows 11 installation problems, so even the latest version is affected by this issue.
What is a clean install?
A clean install is a process in which you use Windows 11 installation media to reinstall your operating system from scratch.
Usually, a clean install means that you’ll format your system drive to have a fresh start without any applications or files. If you choose to do this, we strongly advise you to back up your files beforehand.
Fixingthe Windows 11 installation has failedinstallation error is relatively simple, and you should be able to fix it using our solutions.
In case the issue is still there, your only option might be to create a bootable flash drive andclean install Windows.
We also have a guide on what to do ifWindows cannot install the required filesduring the setup, so don’t miss it.
Did you find a different solution for this issue? If so, feel free to share it with us in the comments section below.
More about the topics:windows 10 fix,Windows 11,Windows Update
Aleksandar Ognjanovic
Aleksandar’s main passion is technology. With a solid writing background, he is determined to bring the bleeding edge to the common user. With a keen eye, he always spots the next big thing surrounding Microsoft and the Windows OS.
Focused on Windows errors and how to solve them, he also writes about the OS’s latest features as well as its interface.
In his free time, he likes to read, listen to music, and enjoy the nature. Hiking is one of his newly found passions.
User forum
0 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Aleksandar Ognjanovic
Reviewed byVlad Turiceanu
Coming from a solid background in PC building and software development, he’s a Windows 11 Privacy & Security expert.More about Vlad ›
