Installing Win10 from Install.esd to Install.wim after Conversion?


  1. Posts : 812
    Win10
       #1

    Installing Win10 from Install.esd to Install.wim after Conversion?


    I have a bootable Windows 10 flash drive that was created with the Media Creation Tool and inside the Sources folder, I have whats called the INSTALL.ESD. Can I convert that file to INSTALL.WIM or would this cause the installation of Windows 10 fail?
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  2. Posts : 41,412
    windows 10 professional version 1607 build 14393.969 64 bit
       #2

    It can be converted from ESD to WIM.
    How come you are considering the conversion?

    If you get the Windows 10 iso from the Microsoft website it is in ESD (Electronic Software Download) file format.
    If you get the Windows 10 iso from other websites it is typically in the WIM (Windows IMaging)file format.

    In case you need to convert a method is in this link:
    Convert an ESD File to a WIM File for Driver Updates in Your Windows...

    In case you need to perform a Windows image DISM repair it can be done with either ESD or WIM:
    Use DISM to Repair Windows 10 Image Windows 10 Tutorials
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  3. Posts : 812
    Win10
    Thread Starter
       #3

    Will converting to WIM cause issues with Windows 10 installation?
    Generally, which is better? ESD or WIM?
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  4. Posts : 41,412
    windows 10 professional version 1607 build 14393.969 64 bit
       #4

    The source files for the iso are available from the Microsoft website for the current Windows version and build.
    If you need an older iso they are available on multiple websites.
    The Nlite software I have never used.

    These are some links:
    Iso, esd or wim? Solved - Windows 10 Forums
    Microsoft Windows 10 TH2 ISO Download • Windows ISO
    Download Windows 10

    The Microsoft website is in ESD format.
    The other sources for iso files are typically in WIM format.
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  5. Posts : 812
    Win10
    Thread Starter
       #5

    Will converting to WIM cause issues with Windows 10 installation?
    Generally, which is better? ESD or WIM?
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 41,412
    windows 10 professional version 1607 build 14393.969 64 bit
       #6

    Having to convert one to the other is something I had not done and was not aware of the need.
    If there is any concern you can start with either format as both are free with free upgrades.
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  7. Posts : 4,666
    Windows 10 Pro x64 21H1 Build 19043.1151 (Branch: Release Preview)
       #7

    win10freak said:
    Will converting to WIM cause issues with Windows 10 installation?
    Generally, which is better? ESD or WIM?
    The .ESD is smaller because of different compression algorithm used, while the .WIM is serviceable (you can add, remove and update components). Other than that, there's absolutely NO difference between the two when it comes to installing Windows.

    Go here for more information and to learn the steps to take:
    Convert ESD file to WIM using DISM in Windows 10


    And go to part 5 of this tutorial to complete the conversion and make the final ISO:
    Create Windows 10 ISO image from Existing Installation Installation & Upgrade
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  8. Posts : 15,441
    Windows10
       #8

    win10freak said:
    I have a bootable Windows 10 flash drive that was created with the Media Creation Tool and inside the Sources folder, I have whats called the INSTALL.ESD. Can I convert that file to INSTALL.WIM or would this cause the installation of Windows 10 fail?
    There is no need whatsoever to convert the file to .wim, unless you want to customise the iso (advanced users).
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  9. Posts : 31,468
    10 Home x64 (22H2) (10 Pro on 2nd pc)
       #9

    cereberus said:
    There is no need whatsoever to convert the file to .wim, unless you want to customise the iso (advanced users).


    I have never converted the .esd to .wim - never found a need to. The install and any repairs using Dism will work equally well with either.
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  10. Posts : 4,131
    Windows 3.1 to Windows 11
       #10

    win10freak said:
    Will converting to WIM cause issues with Windows 10 installation?
    Generally, which is better? ESD or WIM?
    Converting an ESD file to a WIM file will not cause installations issues.. As both file formats are supported..

    An ESD file is smaller due to compression, but would need to be un-compressed to make serviceable

    A WIM file is slightly larger, but is serviceable with DISM to add System Drivers and other Program Packaging

    So unless you create custom installations then the ESD file is fine..
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