If you are wondering how long it takes to download and install windows 10, then you have come to the right place! However, I should mention that there is no fixed answer to this question as it depends on a lot of factors like your internet speed, your hard disk speed, your computer configuration and many other variables. I know how frustrating it can be if it takes too long to install and you are staring at a loading icon which doesn't give any information at all. Let's break it down into three sections-
- How long does it take to download Windows 10?
- How long does it take to install Windows 10?
- How long does it take to update Windows 10?
- Quick answer/ TL;DR
How long does it take to download Windows 10?
It totally depends on your internet speed and the speed of the server from which you are downloading the update. Note that the speed of a download is dependent on the slowest component in the entire process. Microsoft's server usually has a speed of about 10Mbps per connection.In case you are manually downloading the operating system and If your internet speed is considerably more than this, then you can use a software like 'Internet Download Manager' to make this process faster. What this software does isIn case you are manually downloading the operating system and If your internet speed is considerably more than this, then you can use a software like 'Internet Download Manager' to make this process faster. What this software does is that it creates multiple connections to their server and downloads it in parts, then combine them together once it is entirely downloaded. This is a very useful software if you are planning to download a lot of stuff from the internet.
Now, the two main variables affecting your download speed is your internet speed and the size of the download file. Windows 10 operating system is about 3.5GB in size. Just go to 'Download Time Calculator', then enter your internet speed and the file size as 3.5GB, It will give you an estimate on how long it will take to download Windows 10.
I have had some cases where it took quite a bit longer because of the crappy windows server when I tried to download using the windows 8 to windows 10 upgrade tool which windows used to provide for their free anniversary update. If you are coming from Windows 7, then I suggest doing a clean install rather than an upgrade, as it will be faster and better in every way.
How long does it take to install Windows 10?
It shouldn't take more than three hours. That is the short and simple answer. However, things can be considerably faster if you have an SSD(Solid State drive) as it is about ten times faster than a typical hard disk. I have installed windows 10 in less than 15 minutes on a latest high-end computer. In case you are using an old computer, then it can take more time due to slow or damaged hard disk.If you are choosing 'upgrade current OS' then it is going to take considerably longer time than if you were doing a fresh install, as Windows will have to backup current stuff, move files around etc. In any case, it shouldn't take more than three hours, unless you have something horribly wrong with your system.
Once windows is installed, the first boot is going to take over two minutes as it is still setting up stuff in the background.
In case you are installing it from a CD/USB Drive, the speed of this drive also comes into play.
How long does it take to download Windows 10?
Updating is a totally different story. Nowadays, there is no real way to stop automatic windows update. It automatically downloads the entire update in the background and only bothers you when you have to take some action, like restarting the computer or clicking a button. However, if you manually try to update windows 10, then it takes a long time to download probably because Microsoft is giving slower connection speed for updates as they have to deal with millions of computers requesting for an upgrade.However, installing an update is super easy as everything is done automatically. All you are asked to do is to restart your system.
Summary/ Tl;DR / Quick Answer
Windows 10 Download time depends on your internet speed and how you download it. One to Twenty hours depending on internet speed.Windows 10 Install time can take anywhere from 15minutes to three hours based on your device configuration.
I know most people are reading this probably because their installation is taking a lot more time than expected, so I have gone into detail on certain aspects which are often overlooked.