> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.proofcore.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Reinstall Windows

This guide will help you perform a clean Windows installation to ensure optimal compatibility with Proofcore cheats.

## What You'll Need

* **USB Drive**: Minimum 8GB of space
* **Windows ISO**: Windows 10 or Windows 11 installation file
* **Rufus**: Tool to create bootable USB
* **Backup**: Save important files before starting

## Step 1: Download Required Files

<Steps>
  <Step title="Download Windows ISO">
    Get a [Windows 10](https://www.deskmodder.de/blog/2022/07/27/windows-10-22h2-19045-iso-esd-inkl-updates-deutsch-english/) or [Windows 11](https://www.deskmodder.de/blog/2023/10/11/windows-11-23h2-22635-iso-esd-deutsch-english-inkl-updates/) ISO
  </Step>

  <Step title="Download Rufus">
    Download Rufus from: [https://rufus.ie/](https://rufus.ie/)
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Step 2: Create Bootable USB

1. **Run Rufus** and configure the following settings:
   * **Device**: Select your USB drive
   * **Boot selection**: Choose "Disk or ISO image"
   * **Image**: Select the downloaded Windows ISO
2. **Click START** and wait for Rufus to create the boot media

<Warning>
  This process will erase all data on your USB drive. Make sure to back up any important files first!
</Warning>

## Step 3: Backup Your Data

Before proceeding, save all important files to a drive that is **NOT** your Windows drive:

* Documents and downloads
* Game saves
* Browser bookmarks and passwords
* Any other personal files

## Step 4: Boot from USB

1. **Restart your PC** and press your BIOS key during startup:
   * Common keys: `F1`, `F2`, `F8`, `F10`, `DEL`
   * Key varies by manufacturer
2. **Enter Boot Menu** and select your USB drive as the boot device
3. **Save and restart** to begin Windows installation

## Step 5: Install Windows

<Info>
  Follow this video guide EXACTLY for the installation process:\
  [https://streamable.com/qz9y5](https://streamable.com/qz9y5)
</Info>

Key steps during installation:

* Delete all existing partitions
* Create a fresh partition for Windows
* Select the new partition for installation
* Wait for Windows to complete installation

## Step 6: Post-Installation Setup

<Warning>
  **CRITICAL**: Follow these steps immediately after Windows installation!
</Warning>

### 1. Disable Windows Updates

Once Windows is ready:

1. Go to **Settings** → **Update & Security**
2. Under **Windows Update**, click **"Pause Updates for 7 days"**
3. Download **Windows Update Blocker**: [https://www.sordum.org/downloads/?st-windows-update-blocker](https://www.sordum.org/downloads/?st-windows-update-blocker)
4. Use the blocker to permanently disable Windows updates

<Note>
  Blocking Updates is not required on Windows 10
</Note>

###

### 2.. Install Essential Drivers Only

Install ONLY the following:

<Accordion title="Essential Drivers">
  * **GPU Driver**:
    * NVIDIA: Download from NVIDIA website
    * AMD: Download from AMD website
  * **Web Browser**: Chrome, Firefox, or Edge
  * **Game Launcher**: Steam, Origin, Uplay, Epic Games, etc.
</Accordion>

<Warning>
  **DO NOT INSTALL**:

  * Blotware (ASUS, MSI Center etc.)
</Warning>

## Step 7: Final Steps

After completing the Windows reinstallation:

2. **Follow your cheat's injection guide** from the [How to Inject](/how-to-inject/apex-legends) section
3. **Request HWID reset** if needed:
   * If the loader says "You are not authorized", open a ticket at [https://proofcore.io/forums/support/](https://proofcore.io/forums/support/)

## Recommended Windows Versions

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Windows 10" icon="windows">
    * Version 22H2
  </Card>

  <Card title="Windows 11" icon="windows">
    * Version 23H2
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

##

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Can't boot from USB">
    * Make sure Secure Boot is disabled in BIOS
    * Try a different USB port (prefer USB 2.0 ports)
    * Recreate the bootable USB with Rufus
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Installation fails">
    * Ensure you deleted all partitions during setup
    * Check if your USB drive is corrupted
    * Try a different Windows ISO
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Next Steps

After successfully reinstalling Windows:

1. Choose your game from the [How to Inject](/how-to-inject/apex-legends) section
2. Follow the game-specific injection guide
3. If you encounter issues, check [Troubleshooting](/troubleshooting/loader-issues)

<Tip>
  Keep a backup of your bootable USB for future reinstallations!
</Tip>