Clean installation of Windows 10 from Microsoft ISO

Discussion in 'Windows 10' started by FrugalMule, Nov 29, 2021.

  1. FrugalMule

    FrugalMule MDL Novice

    Dec 12, 2018
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  2. pm67310

    pm67310 MDL Guru

    Sep 6, 2011
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    Nop download windows 10 iso windows are automatically activated
     
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  3. FrugalMule

    FrugalMule MDL Novice

    Dec 12, 2018
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    I don't think it will fresh install without a product key but I can try.
     
  4. FrugalMule

    FrugalMule MDL Novice

    Dec 12, 2018
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    It looks like it did let me do it without a key. I don't understand. How can Microsoft determine if the software has been licensed for this hardware?
     
  5. coleoptere2007

    coleoptere2007 MDL Guru

    Apr 8, 2008
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    @FrugalMule the answer is here. Why do you create a new thread to ask the same question ?? :confused:
     
  6. FrugalMule

    FrugalMule MDL Novice

    Dec 12, 2018
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    This is not the same question. It is the same machine, but an entirely different use case and operating system.
     
  7. coleoptere2007

    coleoptere2007 MDL Guru

    Apr 8, 2008
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    Then close the other claim if it is solved. That is the way it is working here.
     
  8. Tito

    Tito Super Mod / Adviser
    Staff Member

    Nov 30, 2009
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    • What's the exact name of the ISO of Windows 10? From where did you download the ISO?
    • What was the exact error message that you encountered while trying to perform a clean install?
     
  9. FrugalMule

    FrugalMule MDL Novice

    Dec 12, 2018
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    I'll be able to get the file name tomorrow
     
  10. Tito

    Tito Super Mod / Adviser
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    Nov 30, 2009
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    Well, you just answered your own query, right? You can press the “I don't have a product key” button and continue the installation process with your choice of the Windows SKU.

    Should I mark this thread as solved?
     
  11. FrugalMule

    FrugalMule MDL Novice

    Dec 12, 2018
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    I don't see how to market as solved. I'm still looking to understand why I wouldn't need a product key?

    Are early versions of Windows now free?
     
  12. Tito

    Tito Super Mod / Adviser
    Staff Member

    Nov 30, 2009
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    Due to the fact that you've experience of installing Windows since Vista-days, I presumed you're aware of placeholder keys.

    Microsoft always defines some key-ranges that are meant for allowing users to skip the serial prompt. When you select the “I don't have a product key” option, the Windows installation wizard applies the SKU-specific placeholder key on the fly. It won't activate the copy of Winodws, but enough for evaluating the OS.