Error:

Javascript is disabled in this browser. This page requires Javascript. Modify your browser's settings to allow Javascript to execute. See your browser's documentation for specific instructions.

hp-support-head-portlet

Actions

HP Customer Support - Knowledge Base

hp-contact-secondary-navigation-portlet

Actions

hp-share-print-widget-portlet

Actions

Information

Fix and resolve Windows 10 update issue on HP Computer or Printer. Click here

hp-concentra-wrapper-portlet

Actions

Product Home

HP Workstations - Installing Windows 10

This document applies to HP workstations with Windows 8.1 or Windows 7.

Using the instructions in this document, install Windows 10 on your workstation that came with Windows 8.1 or Windows 7.

Important information about installing Windows 10

Please read the following important information before beginning:

Make sure to back up your important files.

caution:
Back up all important data (such as personal files, photos, videos, documents, applications, software) before beginning to avoid any possibility of losing your data. See Backing Up Your Files (Windows 10, 8) for more information.
HP provides installation instructions, compatible software, and updated drivers for most computers sold after August 2013.
If you purchased your computer prior to August 2013, HP has not tested or developed drivers for your model computer. Some features might not work or the installation might not be successful.
Once you have installed Windows 10, your current graphics driver is removed and replaced with the Windows 10 in-box driver. If you are currently running an application which requires a driver certified by the application vendor, visit the vendor’s website prior to performing the install to download the Windows 10 certified driver for your application.
HP recommends installing the 64-bit version of Windows 10 for Personal Workstation computers. HP only provides drivers for Windows 10 64-bit.
HP recommends that Windows 10 be installed to a GPT formatted disk for UEFI boot to obtain the best Windows 10 experience. Personal Workstation computers with an MBR partitioned disk should perform a clean install of Windows 10. A clean installation (Keep Nothing) erases all files on the hard drive and removes any hard drive partitions before installing Windows 10. Clean installation instructions are provided later in this document.

caution:
Back up all important data (personal files, photos, videos, documents, applications, software, etc.) before beginning to avoid any possibility of losing your data. The original drivers and programs provided by HP (and any other software you installed) will no longer be available and must be reinstalled or replaced with Windows 10 compatible versions.
Update your antivirus software and the antivirus definitions before installing Windows 10. Set the antivirus application to update automatically. Go to the antivirus software manufacturer website for more information.
If your computer hard drive is encrypted using HP ProtectTools or other security applications you must decrypt the hard drive before starting the installation. The Windows 10 installation program prevents the installation of Windows 10 if your hard drive is encrypted.
If you seek support assistance from HP after the installation, HP technical support might request that the original Windows operating system be restored to verify product functionality. If your computer is sent to service for repairs after installing Windows 10, your computer could be re-imaged with the original Windows operating system and Windows 10 removed. After repairs are made, you can reinstall Windows 10. Be sure to remember your Microsoft account login and password. To reset your password, see HP Guided Solution - Unable to Log in to Windows.
With Windows 10 installed you automatically receive updates and security fixes from Microsoft. You cannot opt out of this service.
If Windows 8.1 is currently installed on the system, and the system has a recovery partition on the hard drive, you will no longer be able to restore the system to Windows 8.1 using the recovery partition (F11 recovery) after the installation.
If you want to restore the original operating system, it is best to obtain HP recovery media before you install Windows 10. To learn how to create recovery media, see Obtaining HP Recovery Discs or an HP USB Recovery Drive.
Not all Windows 10 features are available on all computers, and your particular experience with Windows 10 is determined by the capabilities of your computer.
Apps are sold separately.
Software designed for Windows 8.1, or earlier operating systems, might not work after installing Windows 10.
If you installed third-party software after purchasing your HP computer, you should verify that it is supported in Windows 10 by contacting the software vendor.
Some graphics hardware does not support the new WDDM 2.0 driver design. While the graphics should work on Windows 10, the computer does not benefit from the performance improvements available to graphics that support WDDM 2.0. Additionally, some graphics cards might not support the UEFI GOP feature required for Seamless Boot in Windows 10.
You might not be able to view DVD movies after installing Windows 10. If you currently use a DVD codec to play DVD movies, such as the encoder that comes with Windows 7 Professional, this encoder might not be available after installing Windows 10. To continue to play DVDs, install a new media player app from the Windows Store (in English) or another trusted source.
Windows Media Center does not work after installing Windows 10. It is removed during the installation and cannot be installed afterwards.
For computers with available storage of 128 GB or less, the installation might require you to provide a USB hard drive (32 GB or larger). HP does not recommend using an SD card.
SD card slots might not work after installing Windows 10. For this reason it is recommended to use only USB or microUSB external storage, not an SD card, as Windows 10 installation media.
Microsoft includes a free voice recorder app in Windows 10 to record your interviews, classes, business meetings, and voice notes. This application might not work as expected on all machines. If recording functionality is missing on your device, check Windows Update for the latest driver.
Face authentication requires specific hardware such as an infrared (IR) camera. If the PC does not have this hardware installed, the option to set up face authentication in the Settings app is not available.
The Cortana personal assistant feature uses specific hardware such as a microphone, speakers, GPS and an Internet connection. The microphone in your computer might need to be configured to work with Cortana and results vary based on the specific microphone. Cortana might not be available in all countries.
After installing Windows 10, Wireless Display (Miracast) might not connect to an external display or might lose connection. Updated video and wireless drivers are required to enable the functionality. Check Windows Update for the latest drivers and install them when they are available.
Microsoft Refresh and Reset might not correctly restore drivers and customization specific to your HP system. You should only use HP Recovery Manager to restore the factory image, or Go Back to return to Windows 8.1. After Go Back expires, use HP Recovery Manager and reinstall Windows 10 if a recovery is needed.

System requirements

Microsoft requires that your computer hardware meet the following system requirements before you can install Windows 10.

Requirement	Minimum	Recommended
Processor	1 gigahertz (GHz) IA-32 or x64 architecture Support for PAE, NX and SSE2	x64 architecture Second Level Address Translation (SLAT) support for Hyper-V
Memory (RAM)	IA-32: 1 GB x64 edition: 2 GB	4 GB
Graphics Card	Microsoft DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM driver	DirectX 10
Display screen	800 x 600 pixels	1024 x 768 pixels (to access Windows Store)
Input device	Keyboard and mouse	Multi-touch display
Hard disk space	16 GB for IA-32 20 GB for x64	Same as minimum
Other	Internet connection

Steps to take before installing Windows 10

Before installing Windows 10, use the steps below to prepare your computer configuration.

Determine if the computer hard drive is GPT or MBR formatted.
- If your computer is MBR formatted, you must perform a clean install if you want to convert the drive to GPT.
- HP recommends that Personal Workstation PCs which are formatted with an MBR partition install Windows 10 from removable media (ISO) and choose to keep Nothing (clean installation) to obtain the best possible Windows 10 experience. A clean installation erases all files on the hard drive and removes any hard drive partitions before installing Windows 10. The original drivers and programs provided by HP (and any other software you installed) will no longer be available and must be reinstalled or replaced with Windows10 compatible versions. Even if your computer supports UEFI and has the latest firmware installed, a clean installation and reformatting to a GPT format is required in order to get some security features of Windows 10. Clean installation instructions are provided later in this document.
- Make sure to back up your important files.
  
  caution:
  Back up all important data (such as personal files, photos, videos, documents, applications, software) before beginning to avoid any possibility of losing your data. See Backing Up Your Files (Windows 10, 8) for more information.
Update the BIOS.

Configure the BIOS before installing:

Restart the computer and press the F10 key repeatedly to enter the Setup menu.

Set the following settings according to your Workstation model:

HP Workstations	BIOS values and settings
Z1 Z220 CMT Z220 SFF Z420 Z620 Z820	Select Default Setup. Select Restore Factory Settings and Default and press Enter. At the Success screen, select Enter and then press Esc. Select Apply Defaults and Exit to set the BIOS back to default. After the system reboots, press F10 to boot back into the BIOS. Under Security, select Secure Boot Configuration. Set Legacy Support to Disable, and set Secure Boot to Enable. Press F10. Select Save Changes and Exit.
Z440 Z640 Z840 ZBook Zoltar ZBook 15u ZBook 15 ZBook 17 G3	Select Apply Factory Defaults and Exit to set the BIOS back to default. note: If you previously had Windows 8.1 installed and Secure Boot enabled, you receive a prompt to enter a four-digit code. Type this code to continue the reboot. After the system reboots, press F10 to boot back into the BIOS. Under Advanced, select Secure Boot Configuration. Under Configure Legacy Support and Secure Boot, select Disable Legacy Support Enable Secure Boot. Press F10. Select Yes to save changes and exit.

Update current Windows software and drivers.
HP Client Security Manager is incompatible with Windows 10. Before installing Windows 10, uninstall HP Client Security Manager:
1. In the Windows Control Panel, under Programs and Features, uninstall HP Client Security Manager (HP CSM).
2. A pop-up window lists any installed Client Security modules (applications) that must be uninstalled before uninstalling HP CSM. Uninstall each of the apps using Control Panel, and then uninstall HP CSM.
  
  note:
  The apps listed in the pop-up window vary depending on what you have installed.
  
  After installing Windows 10, consider using BitLocker (a built-in encryption tool in Windows) for your data security needs until a Windows 10 compatible version of HP CSM is available.
  
  Figure : Uninstall HP Client Security Manager related products
Obtain recovery discs (see Obtaining HP Recovery Discs or an HP USB Recovery Drive for more information), and back up your important files.

caution:
Back up all important data (such as personal files, photos, videos, documents, applications, software) before beginning to avoid any possibility of losing your data. See Backing Up Your Files (Windows 10, 8) for more information.
Install updates from Windows Update.
Decrypt the hard drive (if applicable).
Download and extract storage drivers from HP Customer Support.
Get software and drivers from HP Customer Support.
Verify you have installed the latest version of HP Remote Graphics Software (RGS).

Does your computer support advanced Windows 10 features?

UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) works with your traditional BIOS to manage interactions between the hardware and the operating system. All tested HP desktop workstations are configured with BIOS that can take advantage of Windows 10 features, such as Secure Boot and a seamless boot experience. Additionally, HP provides hardware diagnostics and troubleshooting from the UEFI interface. To take advantage of some of the security features in Windows 10, the hard drive must be partitioned using GPT.

Performing a clean (custom) Installation is important to create the necessary GPT partitioning and enable the features in the table below.

HP Workstations	Windows 10 feature expectations
The following computer models have BIOS and UEFI upgrades available that support advanced Windows 10 features: HP Z1 G2 Workstation HP Z220 CMT Workstation HP Z220 SFF Workstation HP Z228 Workstation HP Z230 Tower Workstation HP Z230 SFF Workstation HP Z420 Workstation HP Z440 Workstation HP Z620 Workstation HP Z640 Workstation HP Z820 Workstation HP Z840 Workstation note: A clean (custom) installation is especially important for these computers if they currently have MBR partitioning, to create the necessary GPT partitioning that enables these features. note: HP releases new BIOS versions regularly. New BIOS versions can be obtained from HP Customer Support.	The following Windows 10 features require UEFI or GPT disk formatting: Secure Boot TPM SmartCard BitLocker Network Unlock Seamless Boot Fast Boot Boot config from within Windows 10 Windows To Go TPM 2.0 (HP Z440, Z640, Z840 workstations only) eDrives Attestation Measured Boot

HP Workstations

Windows 10 feature expectations

The following computer models have BIOS and UEFI upgrades available that support advanced Windows 10 features:

HP Z1 G2 Workstation
HP Z220 CMT Workstation
HP Z220 SFF Workstation
HP Z228 Workstation
HP Z230 Tower Workstation
HP Z230 SFF Workstation
HP Z420 Workstation
HP Z440 Workstation
HP Z620 Workstation
HP Z640 Workstation
HP Z820 Workstation
HP Z840 Workstation

note:
A clean (custom) installation is especially important for these computers if they currently have MBR partitioning, to create the necessary GPT partitioning that enables these features.

note:
HP releases new BIOS versions regularly. New BIOS versions can be obtained from HP Customer Support.

The following Windows 10 features require UEFI or GPT disk formatting:

Secure Boot
TPM SmartCard
BitLocker Network Unlock
Seamless Boot
Fast Boot
Boot config from within Windows 10
Windows To Go
TPM 2.0 (HP Z440, Z640, Z840 workstations only)
eDrives
Attestation
Measured Boot

Additional Windows 10 features

The following Windows 10 features are either not supported or have not been tested on desktop workstations due to hardware and/or driver restrictions that shipped with the systems listed in the table above:

Cortana
Windows Hello
Fingerprint Authentication
Direct Inking
WiGig Docking
Precision Touchpad
WDDM v2.0
Sensors
USB 3.1 Type-C
Continuum
Wireless Display (Miracast)

Installing from an ISO image or USB drive

Install a digital copy of Windows 10 from an ISO image or USB drive.

To obtain a digital copy of Windows 10, purchase a license to install Windows 10 or download a digital copy from Microsoft.

If you need to purchase a license to install Windows 10, go to the Microsoft website (in English).
If you already have a license to install Windows 10, go to the Microsoft Download Windows 10 webpage (in English).

Installing from an ISO image

Install Windows 10 from an ISO image. Installing from an ISO image is for advanced users.

note:
If you are prompted to supply the Windows 10 product key, type the product key, and then click Next.

note:
If your computer has less than 128 GB of free hard drive space, you are prompted to connect a USB hard drive to continue with the installation. Use a blank USB hard drive 32 GB or larger. When the installation is complete, Windows 10 Upgrade copies the windows.old file to the USB hard drive. Keep this file on the USB hard drive. The file is required if you decide to Go Back to the previous operating system.

In File Explorer, navigate to the ISO image, and then mount it.

If a User Account Control window displays, click Yes.

The installer opens.
When the Get important updates window opens, select Download and install updates (recommended), and then click Next.

Windows downloads and installs updates.

Figure : Selecting Download and install updates (recommended)
Click Next when prompted on each window as the installer checks the PC and prepares the PC for the installation.
When the Applicable notices and license terms window displays, click Accept.

Figure : Accepting the license terms
If prompted, click Next.
When the Ready to install window displays, click Change what to keep.

note:
If you do not want to change what to keep, click Install to begin the installation.

Figure : Ready to install window
In the Choose what to keep window, select what you want to keep, and then click Next.
- Keep personal files and apps: Keeps all your personal files, settings, and apps.
- Keep personal files only: Keeps your personal files, but no settings or apps.
- Nothing: Keeps nothing and erases all data.
Figure : Choose what to keep window with Keep personal files and apps selected
If prompted, click Next.
When the Ready to install window displays, click Install.

The installation begins.

note:
During the install process, your computer restarts several times. Do not turn off your computer or interrupt the installation process.

Figure : Ready to install window
When the installation is complete, a sign-in screen displays. Type your password, and then press Enter.

If your local account does not have a password, press Enter.

note:
If you have a Microsoft Account, use that account and password.

Figure : Sign-in screen
When the Get going fast screen displays, select one of two setup options: Use Express settings to continue or Customize settings to customize individual settings.
- To accept the default settings and allow Microsoft to manage your computer, click Use express settings.
- To review options and make changes to these settings, click Customize settings, and then select the individual options.
Figure : Get going fast screen
In the New apps for the new Windows screen, choose to use the new apps or your previous default apps.
- If you want to use the new apps to open files and websites, click Next.
- If you want to use your previous default apps, click Let me choose my default apps, clear the check boxes next to the app names, and then click Next.
note:
If you do not choose default apps at this step, you can manually configure the defaults after the installation completes.

Figure : New apps for the new Windows screen
Windows 10 Upgrade reviews the computer settings and installed applications, and prompts specific actions, if needed. Read each item carefully and respond if any action is required.

Windows 10 Upgrade lists applications or drivers that need to be removed, reinstalled or updated for Windows 10. Choose the Uninstall box to the right of the application or driver listing to launch the uninstall program. Some applications and/or drivers request that the computer be restarted. Ignore the restart until all listed applications and/or drivers have been uninstalled.

After all the identified applications or drivers have been uninstalled, if a restart is required or if the prompt changes to Restart your computer to continue the installation, click Restart.

The installation is complete when the Let's start message displays followed by the Windows 10 login screen or desktop.

Figure : Let's start message

Installing from a USB drive

Install Windows 10 from a USB drive.

note:
If you are prompted to supply the Windows 10 product key, type the product key, and then click Next.

note:
If your computer has less than 128 GB of free hard drive space, you are prompted to connect a USB drive to continue with the installation. Use a blank USB drive 32 GB or larger. When the installation is complete, Windows 10 Upgrade copies the windows.old file to the USB drive. Keep this file on the USB drive. The file is required if you decide to Go Back to the previous operating system.

Step 1: Install Windows 10

Windows 10 Setup allows you to do a clean installation of Windows 10 (erases all data) or to keep your personal files and apps (HP still recommends backing up all data in the event of any data loss).

Insert the Windows installation USB drive into the computer.
Open the USB drive in File Explorer, and then double-click the setup file.

If a User Account Control window displays, click Yes.
When the Get important updates window opens, select Download and install updates (recommended), and then click Next.

Figure : Selecting Download and install updates (recommended)
Accept the license terms.

Figure : Accepting the license terms
In the Choose what to keep window, select what you want to keep, and then click Next.
- Keep personal files and apps: Keeps all your personal files, settings, and apps.
- Keep personal files only: Keeps your personal files, but no settings or apps.
- Nothing: Keeps nothing and erases all data.
Figure : Choose what to keep window with Keep personal files and apps selected
In the Ready to install window, click Install.

The installation begins.

During the installation process, your computer restarts several times. Do not turn off your computer or interrupt the installation process. If the sign-in window displays, sign in to your account.
- If you chose Keep personal files and apps, the desktop opens when the installation completes.
- If you chose Keep personal files only, the desktop opens when the installation completes.
- If you chose Keep nothing, continue to the next step after the installation completes to set up Windows 10.
Figure : Clicking Install

Step 2: Complete setup and sign in to Windows 10 (clean installation only)

If you chose the clean install and kept nothing, navigate the setup experience with the help of Cortana. If you chose to keep your personal files and apps, you do not need to set up Windows 10 again.

When the Cortana introductory screen displays, you can choose to use Cortana voice recognition (if your computer has a working microphone) or your keyboard and mouse to complete the setup.

If you do not want to use Cortana voice recognition, click the speaker icon in the lower right corner, and then mute the volume.

Figure : Cortana introductory screen
When the Let's start with region. Is this right? screen displays, select your region, and then click Yes.
When the Is this the right keyboard layout? screen displays, select your keyboard layout, and then click Yes.
When the Want to add a second keyboard layout? screen displays, select Add layout and follow the on-screen instructions to add another keyboard layout, or select Skip to continue without a second keyboard layout.
When the Let's connect you to a network screen displays, select the network you want to connect to, and then click Connect and type your network user name and password, or click Skip for now to continue without connecting to a network.
On the Sign in with Microsoft screen, type your email, phone, or Skype name in the text field, or create an account, and then click Next.

Figure : Signing in with your Microsoft account
Type your password in the text field, and then click Next.

If you see a Call us overprotective screen requesting an additional method of account verification, select the way you want to verify the account, and then click Next.

Figure : Typing your Microsoft account password
Read the options displayed on each screen, select the options you want, and then follow the on-screen instructions to continue.
When the Choose privacy settings for your device screen displays, select the options you want, and then click Accept.

The installation completes, and the desktop opens.

Figure : Choosing privacy settings for your device

Windows activation

To verify you have a genuine copy of Windows 10 that has not been used on more devices than the license agreement calls for, your Windows 10 needs to be activated. Depending on where you acquired your copy of Windows 10, activation occurs using either a digital entitlement or a 25-character product key.

For more information about Windows activation, see Windows 10 Product Activation.

Digital entitlement: If your copy of Windows 10 has digital entitlement, you are not required to enter a product key, it automatically activates.

Product key: If your copy of Windows 10 needs a product key, you are required to enter the 25-character product key.

Steps to take after installing Windows 10

After installing Windows 10, update your drivers, software, and apps.

Connect to the Internet if your computer is not already connected.
Install .NET Framework 3.5 (if applicable).
Install updated drivers from HP or other manufacturers.
Configure HP Remote Graphics Software (RGS).
Install DVD or Blu-ray playback software (if applicable).
Restore backup files. In Settings, click Update & security, click Backup, and then find and restore the files you backed up before the installation.
Install updates from Windows Update.
Sign in to the Windows Store and update any Windows apps.
Open the Windows 10 Get Started app.
Set the default apps to open various file types.
Resolve any printer issues. After installing Windows 10, if your printer does not work as expected or encounters a problem, see Using Print and Scan Doctor for Windows to Help Resolve Printer Issues .
Learn how to use Windows 10. Read the HP support document Understanding and Using Windows 10 to learn new Windows 10 features, the apps that come with Windows 10, and much more.

Known issues after installing Windows 10

Review this list of known issues after installing Windows 10 for information about possible problems.

Face authentication is not supported. Face authentication requires specific hardware, such as an IR web camera. If the PC does not have this hardware installed, the option to set up face authentication in the Settings app is not available.

note:
Face authentication is not supported by the built-in webcam installed on the HP Z1 or HP Z1 G2 All-in-One Workstations.
Cortana does not understand your spoken words. The microphone in your computer might need to be configured to work with Cortana. Voice recognition results vary based on the microphone. For instructions to set up voice recognition and get started with Cortana, see Using Cortana Personal Digital Assistant (Windows 10).
Wireless Display (Miracast) does not connect. After installing Windows 10, Miracast might not connect to an external display, or might lose connection. Updated video and wireless drivers are required to enable the functionality. Check Windows Update for the latest drivers, and install them when they are available.
Recovery issues:
- If Windows 8.1 was installed on the system, and the system has a recovery partition on the hard drive, you will no longer be able to restore the system using the recovery partition (F11 recovery) after the Windows 10 installation.
- F11 recovery no longer works if the recovery partition was deleted while performing a clean (custom) install.
USB 3.1 Type-C is not supported on HP desktop workstations.
Direct Inking works on touch screen-enabled computers only.
WDDM v2.0 is currently not supported on HP desktop workstations.

Go back to the previous version of Windows

Go Back is a feature that returns your computer to the operating system that was installed before you installed Windows 10.

note:
The Go Back option is only available for 10 days after the installation of Windows 10. If you perform a disc cleanup, refresh, or reset in Windows 10, you do not have the option to go back. If you have deleted the windows.old file from your computer, you do not have the option to go back. If your installation required an external USB drive you must use the same drive to go back.

Prepare to go back.
- Although your personal files should not be affected by going back, it is recommended that you back up all important data (personal files, photos, videos, documents, applications, software, etc.) before going back, to avoid any possibility of losing your data. See Backing Up Your Files (Windows 10, 8) for more information.
- If you were using a different password with the previous Windows version on your computer, you might need your old password.
- Keep your PC powered on and plugged in to a power source for the duration of the go back.
- After going back, you need to reinstall some apps and programs, and any settings changes are lost.
Using the search box on the taskbar, search for go back, and then click Go back to an earlier build.

The Recovery window opens in Settings.

Figure : Clicking Go back to an earlier build
In the Go back to an earlier build section, click Get started.

Figure : Clicking Get started
On the Why are you going back? window, select an answer, type more details into the Tell us more field (optional), and then click Next.

Figure : Why are you going back? window
Read the What you need to know window, and then click Next.

Figure : What you need to know window
Windows reminds you that you need your old password, if applicable. Click Next.

Figure : Don't get locked out window
Click Go back to an earlier build.
Wait while your system is restored to the previous version of Windows. Do not turn off or unplug the computer.

When Go Back is complete, sign in with the user account and password from your previous version of Windows.

Clean (custom) installation of Windows 10

This section describes the requirements and steps to perform a clean install of Windows 10 on HP desktop workstations. Please read the following important information before beginning:

HP provides installation instructions and drivers for most computers sold after August 2013.
If you purchased your computer prior to August 2013, HP has not tested or developed drivers for your computer model. Installing Windows 10 and the appropriate drivers on your computer might be difficult.
Not all Windows 10 features are available on all computers, and your particular experience with Windows 10 is determined by the capabilities of your computer.
Apps are sold separately.
HP recommends that Personal Workstation PCs with MBR partitioned boot drives perform a clean (custom) installation to obtain the best possible Windows 10 experience. Even if your computer supports UEFI and has the latest firmware installed, a clean installation and reformatting to a GPT format are required in order to get some security features of Windows 10.
A clean (custom) installation erases all files on the hard drive and removes any hard drive partitions before installing Windows 10. The original drivers and programs provided by HP (and any other software you installed) will no longer be available and must be reinstalled or replaced with Windows 10 compatible versions.

caution:
Back up all important data (such as, but not limited to, files, photos, videos, documents, applications, software, email, etc.) before you begin the clean (custom) installation to avoid losing your data. Make sure you have the media, or another method, to reinstall all applications you have installed.
HP recommends installing the 64-bit version of Windows 10 for Personal Workstation computers. HP only provides 64-bit drivers for Windows 10.
Software designed for Windows 8.1 or earlier operating systems might not work after installing Windows 10.
If you installed software from another manufacturer after purchasing your HP system, you should verify that it is supported in Windows 10 by contacting the software vendor.
HP provides Windows 10 compatible software and updated drivers to support only specific computer models.
Some graphics hardware does not support the new WDDM 2.0 driver design. While the graphics should work in Windows 10, the computer does not benefit from the performance improvements available to graphics that support WDDM 2.0.

Additionally, some graphics cards shipped with Windows 7 systems might not support the UEFI GOP feature required to support Seamless Boot.
If you want to restore the original operating system after installing Windows 10, you must obtain HP recovery media before you install Windows 10.
If you seek support assistance from HP after you install Windows 10, HP technical support might request that the original Windows operating system be restored to verify product functionality. If your computer is sent for service or repairs after upgrading to Windows 10, your computer might be re-imaged with the original Windows operating system and Windows 10 operating system removed. After repairs are made, you can reinstall Windows 10.
You might not be able to view DVD movies after upgrading. If you currently use a DVD codec to play DVD movies, this encoder might not be available after installing Windows 10.

System requirements

Microsoft requires that your computer hardware meet the following system requirements before you can install Windows 10.

Requirement	Minimum	Recommended
Processor	1 gigahertz (GHz) x64 architecture	x64 architecture Second Level Address Translation (SLAT) support for Hyper-V
Memory (RAM)	x64 edition: 2 GB	4 GB
Graphics Card	Microsoft DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM driver	DirectX 10
Display screen	800 x 600 pixels	1024 x 768 pixels (to access Windows Store)
Input device	Keyboard and mouse	Multi-touch display
Hard disk space	20 GB	Same as minimum
Other	Internet connection

Preparing your computer for clean (custom) installation of Windows 10

This installation option prepares your computer for Windows 10 installation, erases all files on the hard drive and removes any hard drive partitions before installing Windows 10. To access this option, you must shut down the computer and use the installation media to boot the computer.

note:
To perform a clean (custom) installation, you need to purchase a copy of Windows 10 from Microsoft.

caution:
Back up all important data (personal files, photos, videos, documents, applications, software, etc.) before beginning a clean (custom) installation to avoid losing your data. Make sure you have the media, or another method, to reinstall any installed applications.

Step 1: Update the BIOS

HP recommends upgrading to the latest BIOS before upgrading to Windows 10. Use the following steps to update the BIOS:

In Windows, search for system and then select System Information from the list.
Under System Summary, the BIOS Version/Date is displayed. Record the BIOS revision number.
Go to HP Customer Support, select Software and Drivers, and enter your computer model number to find software and driver updates.
Use the SAVE option to download the latest available BIOS to your hard drive. Make sure to look through all the available downloads and select the BIOS version that has the highest version number.
To install (flash) the BIOS, close all software, disconnect all connected devices, remove all external storage devices and then double-click the downloaded BIOS.

warning:
Do not use the computer or disconnect the power until the BIOS update has completed by itself and the computer has restarted.

Step 2: Change BIOS settings for Windows 10

To make sure the computer is set to boot UEFI, change the BIOS settings to enable Secure Boot. Intel AMT technology must be disabled in the BIOS before upgrading. AMT can be enabled after UEFI versions of Intel AMT are available from HP in a BIOS update.

Use the following steps to configure the BIOS before upgrading:

Restart the computer and press the F10 key repeatedly to enter the Setup menu.

Set the following settings according to your Workstation model:

HP Workstations	BIOS values and settings
Z1 Z220 CMT Z220 SFF Z420 Z620 Z820	Select Default Setup. Select Restore Factory Settings and Default and press Enter. At the Success screen, select Enter and then press Esc. Select Apply Defaults and Exit to set the BIOS back to default. After the system reboots, press F10 to boot back into the BIOS. Under Security, select Secure Boot Configuration. Set Legacy Support to Disable, and set Secure Boot to Enable. Press F10. Select Save Changes and Exit.
Z440 Z640 Z840	Select Apply Factory Defaults and Exit to set the BIOS back to default. note: If you previously had Windows 8.1 installed and Secure Boot enabled, you receive a prompt to enter a four-digit code. Type this code to continue the reboot. After the system reboots, press F10 to boot back into the BIOS. Under Advanced, select Secure Boot Configuration. Under Configure Legacy Support and Secure Boot, select Disable Legacy Support Enable Secure Boot. Press F10. Select Yes to save changes and exit.

Step 3: Get software and drivers

It is advisable to get all available recommended software and driver updates while the computer is still using the installed current version of Windows.

Go to HP Customer Support, select Software and Drivers, and enter your computer model number.
Download and save the Windows 10 hardware drivers and software files to your hard drive.

note:
If the Windows 10 operating system is listed in the drop-down menu, the model computer is supported.
Copy the downloaded files to CD/DVD or a USB storage device for use after installing Windows 10.

Step 4: Download and extract storage drivers

You might be prompted for storage drivers during the installation of Windows 10. Follow these instructions to obtain and prepare the storage drivers for installation.

Go to HP Customer Support, select Software and Drivers, and then enter your computer model number.
Download and save the Windows 10 hardware drivers and software files to your hard drive.

note:
If the Windows 10 operating system is listed in the drop-down menu, the computer model is supported.
In the Drivers - Storage section, download each of the storage drivers listed.
Extract each driver from its SoftPaq, without installing the driver.
Copy the downloaded folder(s) with the extracted storage drivers to CD/DVD or a USB storage device for use during the Windows 10 installation.

Step 5: Obtain recovery discs and back up your important files

If you have not already done so, obtain or create a set of Windows system recovery discs. See Obtaining HP Recovery Discs or an HP USB Recovery Drive for more information. If a problem occurs during the install process, you can use recovery discs to return your computer back to its original software configuration.

If you want to back up your files using other software, you must first verify that the software is compatible with Windows 10. You also need a copy of the software installation files on a USB drive or disc. Do not use backup software that is not compatible with Windows 10.

When finished, verify that the backup was successful and you can access your files.

Step 6: Download a digital copy of Windows 10

If you purchased a retail DVD of Windows 10, follow the Microsoft installation instructions provided in the packaging.

To download a digital copy of Windows 10, you need the following:

Computer running Windows 7 SP1 or 8.1, with at least 6 GB of free disk space.
Connection to the Internet.

Use the following steps to download a digital copy of Windows 10:

Open an Internet browser and go to the Microsoft website (in English) to purchase Windows 10.
After you obtain Windows 10, write down the Product Key (5 groups of alpha-numeric characters) for future reference.
To proceed with the clean installation, select Install by creating media, and then click Next.

Things to expect during installation:

Incompatible programs: The installation examines the computer for possible compatibility problems. Some programs need to be uninstalled and the computer restarted before the installation can continue.
UAC security: The Microsoft User Account Control Settings displays a prompt and requires you to verify that you want the listed program to make changes in your computer. This prevents a malware or virus from trying to install software.

If the User Account Control window displays the message Do you want to allow the following program to make changes to this computer? with the Program Name listed as Microsoft Windows and Verified Publisher as Microsoft Corporation, click Yes to allow the action.
Choose a User Name and Password: By default, Windows 10 is designed to seamlessly integrate your new computer into the Internet or cloud with other social media and devices using a Microsoft connected user account, such as Instant Messenger, Gmail, or Hotmail account.
- Local Account: You can enter a unique user name and password that is valid only on this local computer to keep this computer as an independent device that is not linked to other devices. You can still manually connect to the cloud to share files later.
- Microsoft Account: If you use your Microsoft connected user account to sign in, this computer automatically links into all the other mobile devices and user information you have stored on all your social networking accounts.
Allow multiple restarts: The computer restarts multiple times during the installation process. You can either remove the installation DVD during the restart, or ignore the prompt to Press any key to boot from the CD or DVD....

Install Windows 10

Perform a clean (custom) installation of Windows 10.

Exit all programs, disconnect all peripheral devices, and remove all USB storage devices and SD cards.
If you have Internet, connect the computer to the Internet using either an Ethernet cable (Wired NIC), or turn the wireless button on (Wireless LAN).
Insert the Windows 10 installation DVD or USB storage device drive into the computer and shut down the PC.
Turn on the computer and press the F9 key to enter the Boot Option Menu.

The Boot Options menu displays with UEFI Boot Sources at the top of the list and Legacy at the bottom.
Select the boot device or drive.
- UEFI models: Using the arrow keys, select DVD Drive or USB Device under UEFI Boot Sources, and then press Enter.
- Non-UEFI models: Using the arrow keys, select DVD Drive or USB Device under Legacy, and then press Enter.
When prompted to Press any key to boot from CD or DVD, press Enter.

If you selected to boot to a USB device, it boots to it without a prompt.

note:
UEFI models - If you do not press a key when the Press any key to boot from CD or DVD message displays, the computer defaults to the legacy boot. You need to stop the installation, reboot the computer, reselect the UEFI boot device, and then press any key to boot from CD or DVD.

note:
Allowing Legacy boot before installing Windows 10 prevents formatting the hard drive using GPT partitioning, which does not enable full-feature capability.
When the required files are loaded, a prompt to select the desired Language, Time, and Keyboard displays. Make the selections, and then click Next.
Click Install Now.
When prompted to enter a product key, follow the on-screen instructions and enter your product key (5 groups of alpha-numeric characters without the dashes). When the correct key is entered, click Next to continue.

If after multiple attempts the product key entry is not successful, contact Microsoft Support (in English) for help with your product key.
When prompted to review the End User Agreement terms, read the agreement, select I accept the license terms if you agree to the terms, and then click Next.
After the End User Agreement is accepted, two installation options are displayed: an in-place Upgrade, or a clean Custom installation. Select Custom.
Verify that you have backed up all your important files and created or obtained an HP recovery solution. After completing this step, all files will be destroyed without further warning.
If you are prompted to install storage drivers, use the extracted storage drivers that you copied to a CD/DVD or USB storage device. If not, skip to the next step.
1. If necessary, remove the Windows 10 installation disc and insert the CD/DVD that the extracted storage drivers are stored on. See Step 4: Download and extract storage drivers on this page for more information.
2. Click Load Driver.
3. Click Browse.
4. Browse to the appropriate driver directory on the CD/DVD or USB storage device.
5. Select the driver you want to install and click Next.
6. Repeat these steps until all storage drivers are loaded.
7. After loading all drivers, place the installation disc back in the system if removed in the first step.
8. Click Refresh, and then click Next.
A screen opens with the question Where do you want to install Windows?. This screen lists the drive partitions available on the hard drive (that is, the storage space Windows Setup can use to install Windows 10).

To continue, use one of the following actions to install Windows on a hard drive partition:
- Delete all partitions and install on one partition of maximum size (advanced): Select drive options to enable more options on the screen and delete all partitions in the list. Once all the partitions have been removed, you can create one new partition of maximum available size and format it. Once you have one partition and it is formatted, select this partition and click Next to continue.
- Create more than one partition and install on one of them (advanced): Select drive options to enable more options on the screen and delete all partitions in the list. Once all the partitions have been removed, you can create new partitions of different sizes and format them. One of these partitions must be at least 20 GB in size to allow for the installation of Windows 10. Using this method allows you to set aside separate partitions of storage space to be used in Windows 10 as additional drive volumes (in File manager and Computer). Once you have one partition and it is formatted, select a partition that is 20 GB or larger and click Next to continue.
After Windows 10 is installed, a Wireless prompt displays (if applicable). You can either connect to your network now or later. Select your wireless network from the list and click Connect, or skip the step to connect later.

note:
The wireless network option is not displayed if there is no wireless network detected in the area. You can set up the wireless network later after the installation completes.
A Get going fast screen opens. From this screen, you can select one of two setup options: Use Express settings to continue or Customize settings to customize individual settings.
- If you want to accept the default settings and allow Microsoft to manage your computer, click Use express settings.
- If you want to review options and make changes to these settings, click Customize settings and select the individual options.
You can log on to the system using either your Microsoft Account or a Local Account.
As the installation process continues, a series of screens display with messages informing you of the progress. The installation is complete when the Let's start message displays, followed by the Windows login screen or the Windows 10 desktop.

Once installation is complete, update drivers, install software and restore your backed up files. Proceed to the Steps to take after a clean upgrade to Windows 10 section for more information.

Steps to take after a clean upgrade to Windows 10

After installing Windows 10, update your drivers, software, and apps.

Connect to the Internet if your computer is not already connected.
Install updated drivers.

For the best possible experience, install the latest drivers for your computer. If you downloaded the drivers earlier, use the drivers stored on your CD/DVD or USB storage device. To download the latest drivers, go to HP Customer Support.

Drivers for the following devices are critical to the Windows 10 experience and resolve known issues that might occur after installation:
- Storage drivers
- Graphics or video adapter drivers
- Network drivers
- Bluetooth drivers and software (All-in-One computers)
- Management Engine drivers
- Audio drivers
Configure HP Remote Graphics Software (RGS).

Download HP Remote Graphics Software from HP Remote Graphics Software.
Create a Windows Recovery Drive.

Creating a Recovery Drive on DVD or a USB storage device can help resolve startup issues and restore Windows 10 if there are problems later.

In Windows, search for recovery and then click Create a recovery drive.
If the computer had a Windows 7 Recovery Partition and Recovery Manager, the Windows 10 installation might have removed them. If you want to restore the original operating system after upgrading you must use the Recovery media you obtained before upgrading, obtain recovery media from HP, or purchase a retail version of the desired Windows operating system.

If the computer had a recovery partition, it was removed during the clean installation. If you want to restore the original operating system after upgrading you must either use the recovery media you created before upgrading, obtain recovery media from HP, or purchase a retail version of the desired Windows operating system.

hp-feedback-input-portlet

Actions

hp-feedback-banner-portlet

Actions

hp-country-locator-portlet

Actions

Country/Region: Flag

Malaysia

hp-detect-load-my-device-portlet

Actions

hp-hero-support-search

Actions

Examples: "DeskJet Ink Advantage 4670 paper jam", "EliteBook Folio 9480m bios update"