How to Download Windows 10 ISO File from Microsoft Website

The Windows 10 ISO file is integral for installing or reinstalling the Windows operating system. Obtaining this ISO file directly from Microsoft ensures authenticity, thus offering a secure and reliable installation source.

This comprehensive guide walks you through downloading the Windows 10 ISO file from the Microsoft website, utilizing different methods to suit various needs. The guide covers using the Media Creation Tool, downloading via Google Chrome’s Developer Tools, and using the Rufus utility.

Part 1. How to Download Windows 10 ISO with Media Creation Tool

The Media Creation Tool is the official Microsoft utility that presents a straightforward approach to downloading the Windows 10 ISO file. Since there are no complicated steps, this method suits even the least tech-savvy users. However, ensure you have a stable internet connection, as this process requires downloading a large ISO file.

Here’s how to download Windows 10 ISO files from the Microsoft website:

Step 1. Navigate to the Microsoft website’s official Windows 10 Disc Image (ISO) download page.

Click on the “Download tool now” button to download the Media Creation Tool.

Download tool now button on the Windows 10 download page

Step 2. After downloading the Media Creation Tool, run the executable file (.exe). Accept the license terms and conditions to install.

accept the license terms in the Media Creation Tool

Step 3. After accepting the license, you will see the option “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC.” Choose the option and then click on “Next.“

Create installation media option selection in the Media Creation Tool

Step 4. Select the desired language, Windows edition, and architecture (32-bit, 64-bit, or both) to download the appropriate ISO file. And select “Next.”

Note: Most modern PCs use a 64-bit processor (common in modern PCs), so you can download the 64-bit version of Windows. However, if you’re unsure, check your system type in the System Information app on Windows.

Windows edition selection in the Media Creation Tool

Step 5. Choose the “ISO file” option and select “Next.”

Choose the destination file to save the ISO file and select “Save.”

choose the location to save the ISO file in the Media Creation Tool

After downloading the ISO tool, it will be ready to use. However, keep the ISO file safe (contains the critical operating system data) because it could be used for future re-installation or system recovery.

Part 2. How to Download Windows 10 ISO without Media Creation Tool

Suppose you do not wish to use the Media Creation Tool or use a non-Windows operating system. In that case, you can download Windows 10 directly via Google Chrome’s Developer Tools or using the Rufus utility.

Method 1. Directly Download Windows 10 ISO Using Chrome

As mentioned, Google Chrome can be the workaround if you cannot or unwillingly use the Media Creation Tool to download the ISO file. Google Chrome’s built-in Developer Tools allow you to mimic a non-Windows operating system and trick the Microsoft website into offering a direct ISO download option. This method does not require you to install extra software, like the Media Creation Tool in the previous method, and is relatively straightforward.

Here’s how to download Windows 10 ISO without Media Creation Tool:

Step 1. Open Google Chrome and navigate to the official Windows 10 Disc Image (ISO) download page.

Press the “F12” key to open Chrome’s Developer Tools.

Step 2. Select the “Toggle Device Toolbar” option to switch to a mobile view. Or press Ctrl+Shift+M.

Note: By switching to the mobile view, you are tricking the Microsoft site into thinking you are using a different device or a non-Windows operating system.

Toggle Device Toolbar button in Chrome's Developer Tools

Step 3. Refresh the page, and you will see the option to download the Windows 10 ISO file directly.

Choose the desired Windows 10 edition that you wish to download and select your product language. Finally, click on “Confirm.”

Windows 10 download page showing direct ISO download options

Step 4. Choose 32-bit or 64-bit download links depending on the architecture of your system. And the ISO file will start downloading.

32-bit or 64-bit Windows 10 ISO download link selection

Wait for the ISO file to download. Once it’s downloaded, it will be ready for use. If you want to create a Windows 10 bootable disk instead, you can use Rufus.

Method 2. Directly Download Windows 10 ISO Using Rufus

Rufus is an open-source utility that allows you to create bootable USB drives. One of its features is it allows you to download ISO files directly, including Windows 10. Therefore, it simplifies the process of creating a bootable Windows 10 USB drive:

Here’s how to use Rufus to download Windows 10 ISO:

Step 1. Download and install Rufus.

In the Rufus interface, navigate to the “Boot selection” drop-down menu.
To the right of the “Boot selection” drop-down menu, click on the “Select” button.

Step 2: Download the ISO image.

A new dialog box will appear. Instead of selecting an ISO file, opt for the “Download” button at the bottom.
Choose “Windows 10” from the version field in the subsequent window.
And define your preferred “Release,” “Edition,” “Language,” and “Architecture” for Windows 10.

Rufus dialog box with the Download button

Step 3. Save the ISO File.

A new pop-up will ask you to select the location for the ISO file. Choose the desired folder and select “Save.”

Following the above steps, you can directly download the Windows 10 ISO file using Rufus.

Frequently Asked Questions About Windows 10 ISO File

What are the system requirements for installing Windows 10 from an ISO file?

The basic system requirements for Windows 10 are:

A 1 GHz or faster processor.
1 GB of RAM for a 32-bit version or 2 GB for a 64-bit version.
Up to 20 GB of free hard disk space.
And a DirectX 9 or later graphics card with a WDDM 1.0 driver.
And a display resolution of at least 800×600. However, for a smooth user experience, a more robust system is recommended.

Can I use Linux or MacOS to download the Windows 10 ISO file?

Yes. You can download the ISO file even on Linux or macOS systems directly from the Microsoft website without Media Creation Tool. You will see the direct ISO download options from a non-Windows system when you visit the site. Select the desired Windows 10 version and download the appropriate ISO file.

Can third-party utilities other than Rufus help download the Windows 10 ISO file?

There are several third-party utilities like AnyBurn, ISO2Disc, and UNetbootin. You can download the ISO from any of these utilities. Like Rufus, the above utilities allow for creating of bootable USB drives or CDs/DVDs. However, download the ISO file from official websites or trusted sources to avoid potential security risks.

How can I keep the Windows 10 ISO file safe?

Firstly, download the Windows 10 ISO file only from a trusted source like Microsoft’s official website. Once you have downloaded it, store it securely on your computer. Or, you can choose to store the Windows 10 ISO file in a secure location. In all, avoid editing or modifying, as well as do not share the ISO file online.

Conclusion

Acquiring the Windows 10 ISO file directly from Microsoft provides a secure and trusted source for system installation or repair. As mentioned, various methods exist to download the ISO file, and each offers benefits tailored to user needs and preferences. You can choose any of the methods above.

Whether you prefer the official Media Creation Tool, Google Chrome’s Developer Tools, or Rufus, this guide provides step-by-step instructions.