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Clean Windows Installation Guide

A comprehensive guide for performing a clean Windows installation, including malware checks, data backup, and post-installation optimization steps.

Prerequisites

Malware Concerns

Why use another system?
Malware can copy itself to the bootable USB during creation. Use a clean system to make the bootable USB and only connect it to the infected system when Windows isn't running.

Checking for file infector malware:
Open PowerShell as admin and enter:

sc.exe start "sppsvc" > $null 2>&1; Write-Host "Error code: $LASTEXITCODE"

If the output is Error code: 577 or 225, your system likely has file infector malware.

No access to a clean system?
Try Dr.Web to remove malware, but be aware it may miss some infections. Creating a bootable USB on a clean system remains the safest option.

Backing Up Your Data

A clean installation will format the C drive. Here's how to back up your data:

For systems with multiple partitions (C:\, D:\, etc.):

For systems with C:\ drive only:

Recommended online backup options:

Creating a Bootable USB with Rufus

  1. Connect your USB drive (data will be erased)
  2. Launch Rufus
  3. Select your USB drive in the "Device" dropdown
  4. Click "SELECT" and choose your Windows ISO file
  5. Click "START" and wait for completion

Post-Installation Steps


© uchks 2024 // jason@piracybound.com - Last Edited: 1735676406