Downloading the Windows 10 ISO file is usually done through the Windows Media Creation Tool. But what if the tool isn’t working, or you’re on an older system like Windows 7? This guide will show you a straightforward method to download the Windows 10 ISO file directly from Microsoft’s website without using the Media Creation Tool.
By following this guide, you’ll be able to download the ISO directly and use it for installations or upgrades without the hassle.
Key Takeaways
- Skip the Media Creation Tool: Learn how to download the Windows 10 ISO directly from Microsoft using your browser.
- Works for Older Systems: This method is perfect for those on older versions of Windows, like Windows 7.
- Chromium Browsers Required: Use a Chromium-based browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge for this guide.
Why Bypass the Windows Media Creation Tool?
The Windows Media Creation Tool is commonly used to download Windows 10, but it doesn’t always work as expected. Users on older systems like Windows 7 may encounter issues when trying to use the tool. In those cases, a direct download of the Windows 10 ISO from Microsoft’s website is a better option. This method avoids the complications and makes the process much smoother.
Requirements for This Method
To use this method, you’ll need a Chromium-based web browser, like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. This guide will walk you through the steps, and it works on both browsers.
Step 1: Open Your Chromium-Based Browser
- Open either Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge on your computer.
Step 2: Visit the Windows 10 Download Page
- Go to the official Windows 10 download page.
Step 3: Open Developer Tools
- In your browser, click on the three vertical dots in the top-right corner.
- Navigate to More tools > Developer tools. Alternatively, you can press
F12on your keyboard to open the developer tools directly.
Step 4: Change User Agent
- With Developer Tools open, click on the three dots in the top-right corner of the developer tools window.
- Select More tools > Network conditions.
- In the Network conditions section, scroll down to the User agent settings.
- Uncheck the box that says “Use browser default.”
- From the dropdown menu, choose BlackBerry BB10 as your user agent.
Step 5: Reload the Page
- After changing the user agent, reload the page by clicking on the refresh icon or pressing
F5on your keyboard.
Step 6: Download the Windows 10 ISO
- After refreshing, you’ll see that the page now offers a direct download option for the Windows 10 ISO file.
- Scroll down to select the version of Windows 10 you need from the dropdown menu.
- Click Confirm, then select your preferred language and download either the 64-bit or 32-bit version of the ISO file.
Step 7: Choose the Correct Language
When selecting your language, it’s important to match it with the language installed on your current system if you’re planning to upgrade. For example, if your system is set to English (United States), select that option instead of English (International). This ensures compatibility during the upgrade process.
- Go to Settings > Time & Language > Region to confirm your current language settings.
Step 8: Start the Download
- Once the correct language is selected, you’ll be given the option to download the 64-bit or 32-bit version of Windows 10.
- Click the appropriate download link, and the ISO file will begin downloading.
What to Do with the ISO File
Once you’ve downloaded the Windows 10 ISO file, there are several options for using it. Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or doing a clean install, having the ISO file gives you flexibility. Here are a few guides that can help:
- How to Perform a Clean Install of Windows 10
- Upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10
- How to Create a Bootable USB Drive with the ISO File
Conclusion
Downloading the Windows 10 ISO file without the Media Creation Tool is a simple process when you know the right steps. By using a Chromium-based browser and adjusting a few settings, you can get a direct download link from Microsoft’s website. This method is particularly useful for users on older systems or anyone experiencing issues with the Media Creation Tool. Follow the steps in this guide, and you’ll have the ISO file ready in no time.
FAQs
What is the Windows 10 ISO file used for?
The Windows 10 ISO file is a complete copy of the Windows 10 installation files. You can use it to install or upgrade Windows on your PC without needing the internet once the download is complete.
Do I need to use a specific browser for this method?
Yes, you need to use a Chromium-based browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. This method will not work in browsers like Firefox or Safari.
Can I use this method on a Mac?
Yes, you can follow the same steps on a Mac using Google Chrome. However, remember that the ISO file is intended for Windows installations.
Is there a difference between the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the ISO file?
Yes, the 64-bit version is designed for newer systems with more RAM, while the 32-bit version is for older systems with less RAM. Always choose the version that matches your system’s architecture.
What should I do if the download link doesn’t work?
Ensure you followed all the steps, especially changing the user agent. If the link still doesn’t work, try refreshing the page or repeating the steps from the beginning.
