UEFI Boot Mode Setup: How to Install Windows 10?

Note: Enabling UEFI in Windows 10 is not a direct feature of the operating system. However, you can install Windows 10 in UEFI mode. Here's a detailed guide on how to do that.

Understanding UEFI and Windows 10 Compatibility

UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a standard for firmware in computers. It replaces the older BIOS and extends system firmware into a protected mode operating system interface. UEFI supports larger hard drives and faster boot times compared to BIOS.

Windows 10, on its own, does not explicitly require UEFI for installation. However, the operating system can be installed in UEFI boot mode, especially in newer systems that lack legacy BIOS support.

Steps to Install Windows 10 in UEFI Mode

If you want to install Windows 10 in UEFI mode, follow these steps:

Prepare Your Environment: Ensure your computer supports UEFI boot mode. This is typically marked by a UEFI logo or similar indication on the manufacturer’s website or product specifications. Backup Your Data: Before proceeding, make sure to back up all important files and data. Installation can be risky and might result in data loss. Create Installation Media: Download the Windows 10 ISO file from the official Microsoft website. Use a tool like Rufus or Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive. Boot from USB: Insert the USB drive into your computer and restart it. Boot from the USB drive by changing the boot order in your BIOS/UEFI settings. You may need to enter your BIOS/UEFI setup when your computer restarts. Install Windows 10: Follow the on-screen prompts to install Windows 10. Ensure you select UEFI mode during the installation process. Complete the Installation: After the installation completes, restart your computer and see if it boots in UEFI mode.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to resolve them:

UEFI Boot Issues: If your computer is not booting from the USB drive in UEFI mode, double-check your BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure that UEFI support is enabled and that the boot order is correct. Data Loss: During the installation, make sure to partition your drive correctly to avoid overwriting existing data. You can use the built-in disk management tools in Windows 10 to create a new partition. Secure Boot and Windows: Ensure that Secure Boot is set to UEFI in your BIOS/UEFI settings. This will allow Windows 10 to pass UEFI Secure Boot verification.

Conclusion

While UEFI is not a feature of Windows 10, you can still install the operating system in UEFI boot mode. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully install Windows 10 in an UEFI environment, ensuring compatibility with modern hardware and secure boot features.