How to Perform a Clean Install of Windows Server 2022

After making a bootable USB drive, follow these steps for a fresh installation:

1. Power on your server so Windows starts normally; insert the Windows Server USB, then restart the server.
2. Your device will boot from the Windows Server USB. Press any key when the message Press any key to boot from CD or DVD appears.

Note: If your PC restarts and the Windows Server installation doesn't begin, you'll need to change the boot order in your PC's BIOS settings to boot from the USB.
3. Restart your PC, and when the manufacturer's logo appears, look for the boot menu key, usually F2, F10, F11, F12 or Del, to open the menu.

4. Change the boot order to USB.
5. Once you're in the setup programme, choose your language, time format, currency and keyboard or input method, and click on Next.

6. Then, click on Install now to start the installation process.

7. Next, select the Server edition you want to install and click on Next.

8. In the following box, accept the terms and conditions and click on Next.

9. In the next step, click on Custom: Install Microsoft Server Operating System only (advanced).

10. In the following box, select the hard drive where you want to install Windows Server and click on Next.
Note: We recommend deleting all hard drive partitions for proper Windows Server operation. If your hard drive is new, just click next.

11. The installation of Windows Server will begin. It will take a few minutes.

12. Next, enter a password that's easy to remember and click on Finish.

13. Then, press the Ctrl+Alt+Del keys and enter the password you initially set. Your Windows Server desktop will appear.