Windows 10 S looks and behaves much like Windows 10, but starts quicker You have to use Microsoft Edge in the OS, not only because you can't install Firefox or Chrome, but because Microsoft's browser is the fixed default and there's (currently) no way to change it. You can download software from outside the Windows Store as normal but if you try to install it, you'll be greeted with a message stating 'For security and performance Windows 10 S only runs verified apps from the Store'. Click Next and select 'ISO file.' Download this to your hard drive. If that's not suitable (perhaps you're running Windows 10 Home but want an ISO for Windows 10 Pro) then untick 'Use the recommended options for this PC' and select the version you do want. If you're running Windows 10 already, the program will automatically select the same version for you. This is the only form of nag you’ll see - there are no pop-up windows, for example.Agree to the terms and then select the option to 'Create installation media.' Select the version of the OS you require.

Activate Windows now.” link at the bottom of the Settings app. You’ll also see a “Windows isn’t activated. First, you’ll notice a watermark in the bottom-right corner of your screen. Eventually, Windows will start nagging you a tiny bit.

Initially, you won’t notice a difference. These days, Windows just complains at you in a few minor, cosmetic ways. With Windows XP, Microsoft actually used Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) to disable access to your computer. However, an unactivated version of Windows 10 doesn’t have many restrictions. RELATED: How Does Windows Activation Work?Īfter you’ve installed Windows 10 without a key, it won’t actually be activated. Whatever version you choose, Windows 10 will install normally. When you select this option, you’ll be able to install either “Windows 10 Home” or “Windows 10 Pro.” Bear in mind that, if you plan to pay to upgrade to the paid version later, it’ll be cheaper to upgrade to Windows 10 Home, so you may want to install the Home version.

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