Here is a clear step-by-step guide for installing Windows 11 for the first time. This process will completely erase the drive (including the encrypted data).
Check System Requirements
Before installing, confirm the PC meets the minimum specs for Windows 11. Here is Microsoft’s official minimum requirements.
Download the Windows 11 Installer
- Download the official Windows 11 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft:
- Run the Media Creation Tool
- Select Create installation media
- Choose: a. Language b. Edition c. Architecture (64-bit)
- Select USB Flash Drive (8GB or larger)
- The tool downloads and prepares the installer
This process makes a bootable Windows 11 installer via USB Thumb Drive.
Proceed to Boot From USB
Here are steps to boot from USB Thumb Drive.
- Insert the USB
- Power it on and repeatedly press your boot key:
- F12 (Dell/Acer)
- F9 (HP)
- F10 (some models)
- ESC (ASUS)
- It varies by manufacturer
- Choose the USB device
If Secure Boot blocks it, you may need to temporarily disable Secure Boot in BIOS.
Delete the BitLocker Partitions (Critical Step)
Reset your PC is a useful feature that lets you return your device to its original state. It can help resolve performance slowdowns, fix software issues, or provide a clean start. The tool is designed to be easy to use and offers several options so users can choose the reset method that best fits their needs.
However, if the device is inaccessible, fresh reinstallation is required for a PC might be required. Please note that this process will completely erase the drive (including the encrypted data).
If the drive is encrypted with BitLocker and you do not have the recovery key:
- You cannot recover the existing data
- You must delete the encrypted partitions during installation
If you still need the recovery key, check:
- https://account.microsoft.com/devices/recoverykey (If you logged in with a Microsoft account)
When Windows Setup starts:
- Click Install Now
- If asked for a key → click I don’t have a product key
- Choose your Windows edition
- Select Custom: Install Windows only (Advanced)
You will now see disk partitions. This is important:
- Select each partition on the internal drive
- Click Delete
- Do this until you see one large block called Unallocated Space
This removes BitLocker encryption completely.
Install Windows
- Select the Unallocated Space
- Click Next
- Windows will install normally ______________
After Installation
- Windows 11 license usually activates automatically if:
- It was previously activated on that machine
- The license is embedded in firmware (OEM key)
You do not need the BitLocker key for activation. ______________
If It Asks for BitLocker Before Booting USB
Some systems show a BitLocker recovery screen immediately on power-on. In that case:
- Enter BIOS
- Change boot order so USB is first
- Or use one-time boot menu key