How can I clean install windows 11 from windows 10 without usb?

A clean install of Windows 11 means wiping the system drive, booting from external media created with the Windows 11 ISO, often a USB stick prepared with tools like Microsoft's Media Creation Tool and letting Setup lay down a completely fresh copy of the operating system.

Unlike an in-place upgrade or a "Reset this PC" refresh, a true clean install erases existing Windows files, apps, drivers, settings, and user data, leaving you with the same factory-new state you'd see on a brand-new machine.

Key advantages of Windows 11 Clean Install

Because every file comes straight from the ISO, a clean install eliminates registry debris, outdated drivers and potential malware. This will resulte in snappier boot times, better overall performance, and fewer mysterious errors.

It’s the most reliable way to resolve stubborn system-level problems (corrupted system files, failed feature-updates, severe malware infections) that survive other repair methods.

You regain full control over partition layout, encryption schemes, and the exact Windows edition you install, making it ideal for switching from MBR to GPT, enabling BitLocker from the outset, or skipping unwanted OEM bloatware.

Main drawbacks of Windows 11 Clean Install

Everything on the Windows partition is lost; you must back up documents, browser data, game saves, custom fonts, and license keys beforehand—and remember to restore them afterward.

Reinstalling apps, drivers, printers, and personalization tweaks can take hours, and you may hit snags finding legacy drivers or proprietary utilities for specialty hardware.

You’ll need reliable internet and a second device or USB drive for downloading drivers/BIOS updates if your network adapter isn’t recognized out of the box.

Missteps during partitioning or Secure Boot/TPM checks can leave the PC unbootable or stuck at activation, so less-experienced users face a steeper learning curve compared with a one-click in-place upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11.