[Solved] Windows 10 Installation Has Failed

The error message Windows 10 installation has failed can be caused by several issues, ranging from hardware incompatibilities or system file corruption to temporary server and other connection issues.

For example, if the system does not meet the minimum hardware requirements specified by Microsoft, then it is likely that the installation process will fail. Similarly, if there is any corruption within the system files or registry entries, this could also complicate installing Windows 10.

The article written below will go over the best solutions to try if your Microsoft operating system received the Windows 10 installation has failed error message.

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Common Reasons for “Windows 10 Installation Has Failed”

The Windows 10 installation process can sometimes run into issues and result in the error message, “Windows 10 installation has failed.” This section highlights some of the most common reasons that can lead to this error, making it easier for users to identify and resolve the problem.

1. Incompatible Hardware or System Requirements: Windows 10 requires a specific set of hardware and system requirements. If the device you are trying to upgrade does not meet these minimum specifications, the installation will likely fail.
2. Corrupted or Missing System Files: System files play a crucial role in the smooth functioning of your operating system. Any corruption or missing files can cause the installation process to fail.
3. Insufficient Disk Space: Windows 10 requires a minimum of 20 GB of free space on the hard drive to install. If there is not enough storage available, the installation cannot proceed.
4. Third-Party Software Conflicts: Some third-party applications, particularly antivirus software, may interfere with the installation process. They might prevent the system from installing necessary updates or cause conflicts with Windows 10 installation files.
5. Outdated BIOS or Drivers: An outdated BIOS or device driver can cause compatibility issues during the installation process, leading to a failed installation.
6. Damaged or Faulty Installation Media: If you’re using a physical installation media such as a DVD or USB drive, any damage or corruption to these devices can result in installation failure. The same applies to corrupted or incomplete digital installation files.
7. Unstable Internet Connection: The Windows 10 installation process requires a stable internet connection to download necessary files and updates. Any interruptions or connectivity issues during the installation process can result in failure.
8. Errors in Windows Update Services: Issues with the Windows Update service, such as misconfigurations or corrupt files, can prevent the successful installation of Windows 10.
9. Conflicting Language Packs: Windows 10 supports multiple language packs for user convenience. However, if there are conflicting or inapplicable language packs installed, it can result in installation failure.
10. Unresolved Previous Windows Issues: If you’re upgrading from a previous version of Windows with unresolved system errors or conflicts, these issues might carry over and cause the Windows 10 installation process to fail.

By identifying the root cause of the “Windows 10 installation has failed” error message, users can take appropriate steps to resolve the issue and ensure a smooth and successful installation of the operating system.

How to Fix Windows 10 Installation Has Failed

Remove the Attribute of $WINDOWS.~BT Installation Folder

If you find the operating system is copying data in the same system folder time and again, you may get an error message, i.e., installation has failed error. In this context, clearing the installation folder for Windows 10 ($WINDOWS.~BT) can help to resolve the error. Here is how you can clear the folder.

Step 1: Launch file explorer from the shortcut keys on the keyboard, i.e., Windows key+ E.

Step 2: In the file explorer window, locate the drive-carrying Windows (Drive C). In Drive C, navigate the toolbar in the header menu and view. Check the box for option hidden items.

Step 3: Now locate the $WINDOWS.~BT folder and right-click it to select the properties option from the context menu.

Step 4: In the general section, check the box for the option read-only(only applies to files in folder). Click Apply, followed by clicking ok to apply and save changes. Restart the device to check if the error persists.

Uninstall Language Pack

In any way, if the installation has failed error ever popped up on your device’s screen, i.e., Windows 10 installation has failed, then you should consider the language pack for Windows as a viable cause of this error. In this context, uninstalling all unnecessary language packs will resolve the error. Here are the steps to follow to uninstall display languages.

Step 1: Start by typing language in the search box of the Windows main menu and double-click the option to launch.

Step 2: Select the language settings to option from the list and click to launch it.

Step 3: Check the Windows display language. It should be set as English. Right-click all the non-English language packs, followed by clicking remove. Restart the device and run the installer to check if the error still exists.

Rebuild Boot Configuration Data

To resolve the installation has failed error, you need to use the startup repair option for rebuilding boot configuration data. This could be done with command prompt action in advanced options. Open a command prompt and type the command lines for rebuilding configuration data. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Restart the device and follow the boot procedure. Window startup can be reached from the update and security options in Windows settings. In the update and security window, select recovery, followed by clicking restart now.

Step 2: In the startup repair menu, click the troubleshoot option and select advanced options in the troubleshooting menu.

Step 3: In the window for options of advanced options, click on the option of command prompt.

Step 4: In the command prompt, type the following commands and click enter to continue.

bootrec /RebuildBcd
bootrec /fixMbr
bootrec /fixboot

Step 5: Complete the boot wizard and restart the device to check if the installation error is fixed.

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Perform Clean Boot Installation

If the Windows installation error appears on the screen, then the boot manager can be used to perform a clean boot installation process. Performing a Clean Boot Installation can be a great way to help resolve this error.

A clean boot installation means that all of the necessary components and files needed for the successful installation of Windows 10 will be freshly installed onto your device. This eliminates potential conflicts or compatibility issues that may have been causing the initial failure.

This installation involves starting your computer in Safe mode, which requires disabling all third-party services and applications. This ensures that no other programs running in the background could interfere with the installation process. Once your computer is safe, you can install Windows 10 from scratch without any pre-existing software or processes running.

Here is how you can perform the quick-fix solution

Step 1: In the search box of the Windows main menu, type msconfig. Click on the option to launch. 

Step 2: Right-click msconfig to select run as administrator from the menu. It will launch a system configuration utility. 

Step 3: In the system configuration utility pop-up window, select the general tab and select the selective startup option. 

Step 4: In the next step, uncheck the option of load startup items.

Step 5: Navigate to the services tab and checkmark the option of hide all Microsoft services, followed by clicking disable all button option. Click ok to proceed. Restart the device to start the normal mode. 

Repair Corrupted System Files (SFC and DISM Scan)

Windows installation failure could be any corrupted or damaged system files and folders causing an installation error. To check and fix system files, SFC and DISM scans are the most viable options as quick-fix solutions. Here is how you can run the scans to rectify the system file errors.

For DISM Scan:

A Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) scan is a tool that can be used to repair, optimize, and modify Windows images. It scans the Windows image and any related files for corruption or errors, such as missing or incorrect settings. DISM also provides features for servicing and updating the system, including installing updates, drivers, language packs, and other components.

Step 1: Launch the Run utility by using Windows key+ R. 

Step 2: In the command box, type cmd to launch the DISM command prompt with administrative permissions. Click Yes to continue the command prompt action. 

Step 3: In the command prompt, type the following command and click enter to complete the action. 

Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup, Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

For SFC Scan:

A System File Checker (SFC) scan is a Windows utility command used to scan for and restore corrupted or damaged Windows system files. It examines all protected system files to see if they are working correctly. SFC scan can help fix many system-level problems, including those caused by malware, corrupt or absent files, or misconfigured settings.

These scans will only replace the damaged file with an original Microsoft version, so it won’t harm your computer beyond possibly reactivating some features you’ve previously disabled.

Step 1: Launch the Run utility by clicking the Windows key+ R.

Step 2: In the run command box, type cmd to launch the command prompt by giving administrative permissions. Click Yes to proceed. 

Step 3: In the command prompt, type SFC/scannow and click enter to continue. Restart the device to check if the error is resolved.

Uninstall Third-Party Antivirus

Third-party software, mainly antivirus software, can cause specific error codes. An error like installation has failed could result from interfering with antivirus software using incompatible system files. In this regard, uninstalling third-party applications from the device can resolve the problem. Using apps and features utility for this purpose can fulfill the pursuit. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch apps and features from the Windows main menu. Click Windows key+ X and click the option of apps and features from the list.

Step 2: In the apps and features window, navigate to the third-party antivirus software and click uninstall in front of the option.

Upgrade Windows 10 With Installation Media

If Windows 10 installation has failed to work appropriately, then reaching out for windows updates via installation media can serve the purpose. Using the Windows media creation tool can help to fix the error. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Initiate the process by downloading the media creation tool from the official Microsoft webpage. Click the download tool now.

Step 2: As the tool downloads on the device, run the tool and accept all terms of service. Click accept to continue.

Step 3: In the next window, check the option to upgrade this PC now. Click next to continue. Complete the on-screen wizards and let the Windows upgrade process on the device. Restart the device to check if the error is resolved.

Keep Your Operating System Updated

Keeping your operating system up to date is an essential part of preventing system errors.

Regularly installing updates for your device can help reduce the chances of experiencing this error. Windows 10 updates contain bug fixes, security patches, and other improvements that help ensure your computer runs smoothly and efficiently. When a bug or potential vulnerability is found in the software, Microsoft releases a patch to fix it quickly and prevent problems from occurring.

Not having these updates installed means you could be vulnerable to malicious software or hackers who exploit known weaknesses in older versions of Windows. If you’re experiencing issues with your current version of Windows, updating may resolve them without reinstalling the entire operating system again.

All in all, regular updating of Windows 10 should be done regularly as it significantly reduces the risk of experiencing errors such as failing to install Windows 10 while ensuring that your computer is always running optimally.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Installation has Failed Error