KangaByte Computer Repair

Windows Reinstallation Procedure

Procedure: SP-006  |  Version: 3.1  |  Last Updated: 10 May 2025  |  Owner: Marcus Chen

Pre-Requisites

• Customer data has been backed up (see SP-003)
• Customer has signed the Reinstallation Authorisation
• You have confirmed the Windows licence status (digital entitlement vs product key)
• The KangaByte Windows USB installer is ready (Windows 10/11 — check job for version)

Installation Steps

1. Boot from USB: Enter BIOS, set USB as first boot device, save and restart
2. Select language and region: English (Australia), AU keyboard
3. Choose "Custom: Install Windows only" — this is a clean install
4. Partition the drive:
   • Delete all existing partitions (unless customer specifically wants dual-boot)
   • Select unallocated space → Next (Windows creates partitions automatically)
5. Wait for installation: ~15-25 minutes depending on drive speed
6. OOBE Setup:
   • Region: Australia
   • Keyboard: Australian
   • Skip Microsoft account (use local account): "I don't have internet" → "Continue with limited setup"
   • Create local account: Use customer name (or "User" if unknown)
   • Privacy settings: Toggle all to OFF (more private for customer)
7. Install drivers:
   • Run Windows Update first — let it install all available updates
   • Install manufacturer drivers from the support page (Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc.)
   • Install GPU drivers from NVIDIA/AMD/Intel website
   • Verify all devices in Device Manager — no yellow warning triangles
8. Install essential software:
   • Web browser (Chrome or Edge)
   • Adobe Acrobat Reader
   • 7-Zip
   • Malwarebytes (free version)
   • Any software the customer specifically requested
9. Windows Activation:
   • For PCs that had Windows 10/11: should activate automatically via digital entitlement
   • If not activated: Settings → Update & Security → Activation → troubleshoot
10. Restore customer data: From backup (see SP-003)
11. Final checks:
    • Verify Windows activation status
    • Check all hardware is working (WiFi, Bluetooth, camera, sound, etc.)
    • Create a System Restore point
    • Run Windows Update one more time

Time Estimate

• Standard reinstall: 1.5 – 2 hours
• Reinstall + data restore + software: 2.5 – 3.5 hours
• Complex setups (specific software, drivers): Up to 5 hours