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Applies to all editions of Windows 7

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Start Windows from a CD or DVD

You might need to start Windows from the installation CD or DVD if:

  • You want to install or reinstall Windows.

  • You want to recover Windows from a serious error.

For more information about installing Windows, see Installing and reinstalling Windows 7.

If your computer won't start Windows at all, you can access system recovery options from the Windows installation disc that can help you get Windows running again. For more information, see Startup Repair: frequently asked questions and What are the system recovery options in Windows 7?

To start Windows from a CD or DVD

  1. Turn on your computer, insert the Windows installation CD or DVD, and then turn off your computer.

  2. Restart your computer.

  3. Press any key when prompted to do so, and then follow any instructions that appear.

  4. When the Install Windows page appears, click Install now to begin the installation process or click Repair your computer to access system recovery options.

  5. Follow the instructions.

If the Install Windows page does not appear

If the Install Windows page does not appear and you aren't asked to press a key to start (or "boot") from CD or DVD, you might have to specify that your computer use its CD or DVD drive as the first startup device. To do this, you need to change settings in the computer's basic input/output system (BIOS).

Warning

Warning

Be careful when changing BIOS settings. The BIOS interface is designed for advanced users, and it's possible to change a setting that could prevent your computer from starting correctly.

  1. Turn on your computer, insert the Windows installation disc, and then restart your computer.

  2. Newer computers often display a startup (or boot) menu. On the startup menu, select "BIOS setup," or "BIOS settings," or something similar.

    Procedures vary depending on the BIOS manufacturer. Usually, you must press a key (such as F2, F12, Delete, Esc) or a key combination immediately after you turn on your computer but before Windows starts. For more information, check the information that came with your computer or go to the computer manufacturer's website.

  3. The BIOS setup screen appears. On the BIOS setup screen, select the option called "Boot order," or something similar.

  4. Select your CD or DVD drive as the first startup device, save the setting changes, and then exit the BIOS.

Restart your computer, and then start Windows from the installation CD or DVD as previously described.

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