How to Do a Clean Install of Windows 10 Home - Viruses et al.

Hi All,


I upgraded my computer from Windows 8.1 to 10 when it was available. I have no working back up on a flash or DVD.

My computer was infected with numerous viruses and a remote keystroke programme. I've cleaned it, but would like to wipe it completely and start over.

Where do I start? Can I download Windows 10 from the Microsoft site?

With thanks, :)

If you upgraded to windows 10 during the free upgrade you should have a digital license.
So you should be able to perform a clean install.
For a clean install you will delete partitions, format, create an unallocated drive, and install windows 10 version 1703.
On a working computer create a bootable windows 10 iso:
Download Windows 10
Power on the computer and boot to the windows 10 iso.
For Asus desktop you should be able to click the F8 key to choose the bios boot order: external hard drive
List of PC brands with their corresponding hot-keys
If that does not work then you would need to change the bios boot order so that the USB drive is on top.
Once you power on and boot using the bootable windows 10 is you will click on install and follow the text and images in this link:
Clean Install Windows 10 Windows 10 Installation Upgrade Tutorials

Morning zBook,

Thank you so much for getting back to me so fast. I truly appreciate all your help. I'm rather nervous about doing the clean install since it's been quite sometime.

I'm currently downloading the Windows 10 ISO image from the Microsoft website and will burn the ISO DVD next.

What drivers do I need in order to get my system up and running?

I've been to the Asus website and they don't seem to have any drivers for Windows 10. I can only assume I would use the Windows 8-64 bit drivers.

ASUSTeK Computer Inc. -Support- Driver & Tools - CM6870


I greatly appreciate some help on which ones I need to download prior to my clean install.

Also, my system has two dedicated partitions: C: and D:. How do I create those two partitions when it comes time to clean install?

Thanks bunches, :)

I'm not zBook.

I looked at the Asus link. Most of the drivers aren't Asus proprietary ones. You may be able to get newer versions from their sources (like Realtek). Check Device Manager to find out which hardware options are present in your specific machine.

The only drivers I'd bother with up front are the communications ones: LAN or wireless. The odds are good that the Windows installation will include what you need, but it's cheap insurance.

It has been a while since I did a new Win10 clean install, but, if memory serves, you can set up the partitions during the installation. The installer will automatically create partitions, but it sounds like you want a different configuration. (You also ought to be able to resize c: and create d: after the installation in Computer Management.)

You can back up the existing drivers. I'm on my phone right now. Google dism /online /export-driver

I have just done a clean install from a USB to a ASUS MB, and was pleasantly surprised I didn't need any drivers windows found them all, though I had an issue with an Intel management engine drive, which I removed and uninstalled, and all was well.

Hi Bobkn, NavyLCDR, and Jimmyb,

Thanks for all the input.

Sadly, I won't be able to keep anything from my previous system. Too many viruses including a keystroke or logger programme. I've quarantined the nasties and will have to start over (clean slate)!

I'll keep you posted. Using another computer at the moment since mine is down.

Thanks bunches, :)

Hi zbook,

Thank you for the advice. I'll keep everyone posted.

:):):)