Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Windows 10 on Surface Pro X

Are you looking to install Windows 10 on your Surface Pro X? You’re not alone! Many users find themselves wanting to switch from the ARM-based Windows 10 on ARM to the traditional x86 version of Windows 10. While the process might seem daunting, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and successful installation.

Why Install Windows 10 on Surface Pro X?

The Surface Pro X comes preinstalled with Windows 10 on ARM, a specialized version designed for ARM processors. However, some users prefer the traditional x86 version of Windows 10 due to:

• Wider software compatibility: Many x86 applications are not compatible with Windows 10 on ARM, limiting user options.
• Performance considerations: While Windows 10 on ARM has improved significantly, some users might experience better performance with the x86 version.
• Personal preference: Some users simply prefer the familiarity and features of the traditional Windows 10 experience.

Prerequisites for Installing Windows 10

Before you embark on the installation journey, ensure you have these essentials:

• A bootable USB drive: This will contain the Windows 10 installation files.
• A Surface Pro X: Naturally, you’ll need your Surface Pro X device.
• Backup your data: Always back up your important files before performing a clean install.
• Internet connection: You’ll need an internet connection for downloading the necessary files.

Downloading Windows 10 Installation Files

The first step is to obtain the Windows 10 installation files. Here’s how:

1. Visit the Microsoft website: Go to the official Microsoft website for downloading Windows 10.
2. Create a bootable USB drive: Follow the instructions provided by Microsoft to create a bootable USB drive using the downloaded files. This involves using the Media Creation Tool.

Preparing Your Surface Pro X

Before you start the installation, you need to prepare your Surface Pro X:

1. Back up your data: Ensure you’ve backed up all your important files.
2. Disable Secure Boot: Access the UEFI settings (usually by pressing the F12 key during startup) and disable Secure Boot. This is essential for installing Windows 10 x86.
3. Enable Legacy Boot: In the UEFI settings, enable Legacy Boot mode. This allows the Surface Pro X to boot from a USB drive.

Installing Windows 10 on Your Surface Pro X

Now that you’ve prepared everything, let’s start the installation:

1. Boot from the USB drive: Insert the bootable USB drive into your Surface Pro X and restart the device. Press the appropriate key (usually F12 or Esc) during startup to access the boot menu and select the USB drive as the boot source.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions: The Windows 10 installation process will begin. Follow the prompts carefully, selecting the appropriate options.
3. Choose a partition: You’ll be presented with a list of partitions. Select the partition you want to install Windows 10 on. This will usually be the largest partition.
4. Install Windows 10: The installation process will begin, and your Surface Pro X will restart several times.
5. Configure Windows 10: After the installation is complete, you’ll be prompted to configure your Windows 10 settings, including creating a user account and choosing your preferred settings.

Post-Installation Steps

Once the installation is complete, you need to perform a few additional steps:

• Install drivers: Download and install the necessary drivers for your Surface Pro X. These can be found on the Microsoft website.
• Enable Secure Boot: Return to the UEFI settings and re-enable Secure Boot.
• Check for updates: Run Windows Update to ensure your system has the latest updates.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the installation process is generally straightforward, you may encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• Unable to boot from the USB drive: Ensure the USB drive is properly formatted and the BIOS settings are configured correctly.
• Installation errors: Try re-creating the bootable USB drive or using a different USB port.
• Driver issues: Download the latest drivers from the Microsoft website and install them manually.

Wrapping Up: The New Windows 10 Experience

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ve successfully installed Windows 10 on your Surface Pro X. You’ll now have access to a wider range of software and potentially improved performance. Enjoy exploring the familiar world of Windows 10, and remember to keep your system updated for optimal performance and security.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Will I lose my data after installing Windows 10?

A: Yes, a clean install of Windows 10 will erase all data on the selected partition. Ensure you’ve backed up all your important files before proceeding.

Q: Can I dual-boot Windows 10 on ARM and Windows 10 x86?

A: Dual-booting is not officially supported by Microsoft. However, some users have reported success with third-party tools like EasyBCD.

Q: What if I encounter an error during the installation process?

A: If you encounter an error, try re-creating the bootable USB drive or using a different USB port. You can also refer to Microsoft’s support documentation for additional troubleshooting steps.

Q: Will I have access to all the features of Windows 10 on x86?

A: Yes, you will have access to all the features of Windows 10 on x86, including the latest updates and features.

Q: Is it safe to install Windows 10 on my Surface Pro X?

A: Yes, installing Windows 10 x86 is safe, but always back up your data beforehand and follow the steps outlined in this guide carefully.