Windows 10 reset says Windows to Go is there. But it ain't.

Question

Hello!

Trying to reset my Windows 10 Professional computer so I can pass it down. Keeps telling me that it cannot because Windows to Go is active.

I read the suggestions, and it seems they all said to go into the registry and delete something. But that something was not anywhere to be found in the registry. Zip, zilch, nada.

It seems, even though the computer is eligible for Windows 11, that also cannot be done because of Windows to go (which, incidentally, I do not ever remember setting up.

Suggestions, help, would be greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

Best is go for a Clean installation:

1. Create a Windows 10 installation media using the Microsoft Media Creation Tool.
2. Boot from the installation media.
3. Choose to install now.
4. When prompted, select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
5. Select the drive where you want to install Windows and format it.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Answer 2

Hi Mark,

Thanks for your post. Based on my research, there might be a known issue with Windows 10. Generally speaking, this issue might occur when Windows 10 thinks it is Windows to Go running from a USB drive .

Please try the following ways and see if it works for you.

1. Click your Start Button, type regedit and hit Enter to open the registry editor
2. In the left pane, navigate to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control

3. Then in the right pane if this value exists - PortableOperatingSystem
4. Right click and delete it
5. Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC

Best Regards,

Ian Xue

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