Windows 11 Install

Question

My pc is prebuilt and is trying to install windows 11 upon start up. Unfortunately, it has been stuck at 85% for more than 12 hrs. Is there anything I can do to fix this or start the installation over?

It was recommended to try installing from a USB copy but am unsure if it will retain the key.

Answer 1

Hello! I'm Manoel Barros!

You can try to recover Windows, but it would be faster to do a Clean Install using USB.

If your license is OEM, it will be activated automatically when you connect to the internet. Check with the vendor to see if your Windows came with a valid license or a trial.

1. In the link below, Kapil Arya MVP explains how to do a Clean Format.

https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/for...

2. Update Windows and install drivers via Windows Update.

ATTENTION: Do not use third-party programs to install drivers (only from the Manufacturer or Windows Update).

Update Windows and Drivers

1. Open System Configuration > Click ''Update & Security'' > ''Windows Update'' > ''Check for Updates''.
2. Download all available updates. Click ''Show optional updates'' marked in blue > Select all drivers and updates > Click ''Download and Install''.
3. When everything is finished, restart the computer > See if the problem appears while performing the steps above.

Answer 2

Hello,

If you had Windows already activated when you first had your computer, then reinstalling Windows from a USB will have no effect on that, as it is stored inside the motherboard.

To reinstall Windows from a USB, you will have to purchase a USB flash drive with at least 8GB of capacity. If you have another computer, download the Media Creation Tool (push here for Windows 10, and push here for Windows 11), and then run the exe once it downloads. If you get a UAC prompt, simply push Yes. Once the MCT comes up, insert your USB flash drive, choose your architecture, language, and time/currency format, make sure to push "USB Flash Drive", as this will move the files from the ISO to your flash drive. Let the MCT do its thing, and then eject the flash drive once it's done. On the non-functioning computer, boot from the USB flash drive, and then once the Windows Installer comes up, push "Install Now". Install to the drive that has the Windows partition, and then let Windows install. This will format the drive that you are trying to install to, so make sure to back up your data beforehand. After it finishes installing, complete the OOBE (Out-of-Box-Experience), and then you should be on your way. If you don't have a second computer, ask a friend or family member.

Let me know how this goes.