How to clean install windows 11 without usb from Windows 10

There are two ways for upgrading Windows 10 to Windows 11. One is clean install and the other is in-place upgrade.

What They Are

Clean Install: Completely wipes the target drive (or partition) and installs Windows from scratch. You boot from installation media (USB/DVD), delete existing partitions, then let setup create new ones and copy files. This is a popular way to clean install Windows 11 from Windows 10.

In-Place Upgrade: Launches Windows Setup from within your existing Windows environment, upgrades system files in place, and preserves your apps, settings, and personal data across the transition. In-place will keep personal files, apps and settings. So it is more safe then clean install Windows 11 from USB drive.

When to Choose Which

Pick a Clean Install if…

• You’re moving to a new drive or completely wiping out old data.
• You’ve accumulated performance problems, driver conflicts, or malware.
• You want maximum longevity and stability from this install (e.g., on a work PC).

Pick an In-Place Upgrade if…

• You need to get up and running quickly with all your current apps and settings.
• Your Windows 10 setup is healthy and you’ve kept drivers up to date.
• You don’t mind keeping a bit of legacy clutter in exchange for convenience.

The Process at a Glance

Clean Install:

1. Back up everything (files, license keys, settings).
2. Boot from Windows 11 USB/DVD.
3. Delete partitions → select “Unallocated Space” → Next.
4. Install, then reinstall apps and restore your data.

In-Place Upgrade

1. Back up critical data (just in case).
2. From Windows 10 desktop, run the Windows 11 setup.exe.
3. Choose “Keep personal files and apps.”
4. Follow prompts—your system will reboot and migrate your environment.