Installation media, such as a USB flash drive, can be used to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation of Windows, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where step-by-step instructions can be found.

If some Windows functions aren't working or Windows crashes, use the System File Checker to scan Windows and restore your files. Though the steps below might look complicated at first glance, just follow them in order, step-by-step, and we’ll try to get you back on track.

Restoring files from previous versions. Restore deleted files and folders or restore a file or folder to a previous state. Navigate to the folder that used to contain the file or folder, right-click it, and then select Restore previous versions.

Change from a 32-bit version to a 64-bit version or vice versa. Activate Windows. Fix Bluetooth problems in Windows. Learn how to install, reinstall, or activate Microsoft 365 or Office 2019 on a PC or Mac.

Some Office 2019, Office 2016, and Office 2013 products come with a product key. If yours did, before installing Microsoft 365 for the first time, sign in with an existing or new Microsoft account and enter your product key at office.com/setup. Redeeming your key is what links your account with Microsoft 365 so you only have to do this once.

Hotmail is now Outlook.com. Learn how to sign in to access your Outlook.com, Hotmail, Live, or MSN email account.

Cast to an external display from your Windows PC. You can wirelessly connect your PC to a TV, projector, or other kind of external display that supports Miracast. Turn on your TV, projector, or other display. If you're using a Miracast dongle or adapter, make sure it's plugged in to the display.

Create Windows 11 installation media. On the Windows 11 software download page, select Create tool now and follow the instructions to install Windows 11. Warning: Microsoft recommends against installing Windows 11 on a device that does not meet the Windows 11 minimum system requirements.

Chat or receive a call back from a technical support expert: If you have a Microsoft 365 Basic, Microsoft 365 Personal, or Microsoft 365 Family subscription, get questions answered from anywhere via chat or request to receive a call back from one of our technical support experts.

Learn how to activate Windows using a product key or digital license, check your activation status, and link your Microsoft account.