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

If you want to keep files and apps, then in-place upgrade is more recommended than clean install windows 11 from Windows 10. The setup installer from Windows 11 ISO migrates your user profiles, documents, browser favorites, saved Wi-Fi keys, personalization settings, and most application data automatically. You sign in after the reboot and your desktop, Start-menu layout, and apps are (almost) exactly where you left them.

Because the upgrade replaces only the operating-system core, it leaves your installed software, printers, and specialty drivers intact. That means no hunting for license keys, re-creating Outlook profiles, or reinstalling big game libraries.

And even careful users sometimes forget to export an obscure password vault, VST plug-in, or custom ICC color profile. An in-place upgrade all but eliminates that risk.

Quick checklist for a trouble-free in-place upgrade

Health Check:  Run the PC Health Check or WhyNotWin11 tool to confirm TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and CPU compatibility.

Free space:  Have at least 25 GB free on the C: drive.

Full backup anyway: Use File History, a disk-image tool, or OneDrive just in case something goes wrong.

Post-upgrade cleanup: After a successful boot into Windows 11, run Disk Cleanup → “Previous Windows installation(s)” to reclaim 15–25 GB occupied by the Windows.old folder.

Follow those steps for clean installing Windows 11 from Windows 10 with your files, apps, and workflows intact—no marathon reinstall session required.