How to Install Microsoft 365 After Installing Windows 10 on a New SSD
Question details
The user needs to install Windows 10 and Microsoft 365 on an older computer after replacing a failed hard drive with a new SSD, and wants to know how to create the installation media from a different PC.
- Product
- Microsoft 365, Windows 10
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Setting up a computer with a newly installed SSD by first installing the operating system and then the productivity suite.
- Observed behavior
- The user requires a clear sequence of instructions to create installation media on a separate computer, install the OS, and properly download and activate Microsoft 365.
Ensure you have a blank USB flash drive (at least 8GB) and access to a working computer with an internet connection to create the Windows 10 installation media. You will also need the Microsoft account credentials associated with your Microsoft 365 subscription.
Create Windows 10 Installation Media and Install OS
Use a working computer to create a Windows 10 installation drive, then boot your target computer from the USB to install the operating system.
Microsoft 365 is a software application and is not required to install Windows 10. The operating system must be completely installed and running before you can install Microsoft 365.
On a working computer, navigate to the official Microsoft software download page for Windows 10 and click 'Download tool now' to get the Media Creation Tool.
Run the downloaded tool, select 'Create installation media for another PC', choose your preferred language and edition, then select 'USB flash drive' to create the setup media.
Insert the USB drive into the older computer with the new SSD. Turn on the PC and repeatedly press the boot menu key (typically F12, Esc, or Del) to boot directly from the USB.
Follow the on-screen Windows setup prompts to install the operating system on your new SSD and complete the initial desktop configuration.
Download and Install Microsoft 365
Once Windows 10 is fully installed and connected to the internet, install Microsoft 365 directly from your Microsoft account.
Try WPS Office: A Lightweight Alternative for Your New Setup
If you're setting up a newly upgraded computer and want to save SSD space while skipping subscription fees, WPS Office is an excellent choice. It is fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats, runs flawlessly on Windows 10, and installs in seconds.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for Windows.
- 2. Run Setup: Open the downloaded executable file and follow the quick installation prompts.
- 3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office to instantly create, view, or edit your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to install Microsoft 365 before Windows 10?
No. Windows 10 is the operating system and must be installed first. Microsoft 365 is a software application suite that runs on top of the operating system.
Can I download the Windows 10 installer on a different computer?
Yes, you can use the Microsoft Media Creation Tool on any working Windows PC to create a bootable USB drive. You can then use this drive to install Windows 10 on the computer with the new SSD.
Will I lose my Microsoft 365 subscription if I install it on a new SSD?
No, your Microsoft 365 subscription is tied to your Microsoft account, not your physical hardware. Once Windows 10 is installed on the new SSD, simply log in to Office.com with your account to download and reactivate your software.
How large should the USB flash drive be for the Windows 10 installation media?
You will need a blank USB flash drive with at least 8GB of storage space. Note that all existing data on the flash drive will be erased during the creation process.
