Top 10 New Features in Windows 10 with Anniversary Update

How to Install Windows 10 with Anniversary Update: Step-by-Step GuideThe Windows 10 Anniversary Update (version 1607) introduced many changes — improved Start menu, Cortana enhancements, Windows Ink, security improvements via Windows Defender, and more. This guide walks you through installing the Anniversary Update safely, whether you’re upgrading from an earlier Windows 10 build or performing a clean installation.

Before you begin — preparatory steps

• Check compatibility: Ensure your PC meets Windows 10 system requirements: 1 GHz processor, 1 GB RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit), 16 GB (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit) free disk space, DirectX 9-capable GPU.
• Back up your data: Create a full backup of important files (use an external drive, cloud storage, or a disk image). Back up browser bookmarks, application settings, and product keys.
• Update drivers and firmware: Visit your PC or motherboard manufacturer’s site to download updated drivers and BIOS/UEFI firmware for better compatibility.
• Free up space: Remove unnecessary files and run Disk Cleanup to ensure enough free space for the upgrade.
• Disable third-party antivirus: Temporarily turn off non-Microsoft antivirus software to prevent interference with the installation.
• Note your Windows edition & activation: Go to Settings > System > About to confirm edition; ensure Windows is activated (Settings > Update & Security > Activation).

Option A — Upgrade via Windows Update (recommended for most users)

1. Connect to the internet and plug in your PC (if it’s a laptop).
2. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates. If the Anniversary Update is offered, it will appear as a feature update to Windows 10, version 1607.
4. Click Download and install. The process will download the update, prepare the installation, and prompt you to restart.
5. Follow on-screen prompts; your PC will restart multiple times. Do not power off the PC during installation.
6. After setup, sign in and check Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to confirm there are no pending updates. Re-enable your antivirus and verify that device drivers are working.

Option B — Use the Windows 10 Update Assistant

1. Download the Windows 10 Update Assistant from Microsoft’s website.
2. Run the tool and click Update Now. The Assistant verifies system compatibility and downloads the update.
3. Follow prompts to begin installation and restart when instructed.
4. After installation completes, verify activation and update drivers if needed.

Option C — Create installation media for clean install or upgrade (Media Creation Tool)

1. Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft.
2. Run it and choose Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC.
3. Select language, edition (Windows 10), and architecture (32-bit/64-bit).
4. Choose USB flash drive (minimum 8 GB) or ISO (to burn later).
5. After the media is created, boot from it for a clean install or run setup.exe from within Windows to perform an in-place upgrade.
   • For clean install: Boot from USB/DVD, choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced), delete/format partitions as needed, then continue. Enter your product key when prompted or choose “I don’t have a product key” if reinstalling an already-activated Windows 10 — activation should occur automatically after installation if the hardware was previously activated.
   • For in-place upgrade: Run setup.exe and choose Keep personal files and apps to preserve data.

Post-installation checklist

• Check Windows Update for cumulative and driver updates.
• Reinstall or re-enable security software.
• Verify device drivers in Device Manager and install manufacturer drivers where necessary.
• Reconnect peripherals and test functionality (printer, camera, audio).
• Restore any backed-up files if you performed a clean install.
• Configure privacy, Cortana, and Start menu settings to your preference.

Troubleshooting common issues

• Installation hangs or fails: Disconnect unnecessary peripherals, free disk space, disable third-party antivirus, and retry. Use the Media Creation Tool if Windows Update fails.
• Activation problems: Run Activation troubleshooter (Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Troubleshoot). Ensure you’re connected to the internet.
• Driver issues: Roll back drivers or download latest drivers from manufacturer websites.
• Reduced performance: Check for driver updates, run Disk Cleanup, and scan for malware.

Notes and warnings

• The Anniversary Update is an older Windows 10 feature update (version 1607). If you’re installing now (post-2016), consider installing a more recent, supported feature update to receive security updates and new features.
• Clean installs erase all data on the target partition — back up first.

If you want, I can generate a printable checklist, create step-by-step screenshots, or tailor instructions for a specific PC model.