Solving the problem of installing Windows 10 on new processors of the 11th generation

Introduction

Installing Windows 10 on new laptops with 11th generation Intel processors can become frustrating if it doesn’t detect the hard disk or SSD drive. Before assuming a hardware problem, it’s essential to check the BIOS settings to see if it recognizes the hard drive. In this guide, we will explore the common issue faced during Windows 10 installation on 11th generation Intel processors and provide a simple step-by-step solution.

1. Identifying the Issue

When you try to install Windows 10 on a laptop with an 11th generation Intel processor, you might encounter the problem of it not detecting the hard disk or SSD drive. If it doesn’t recognize the hard drive at all, it could be a separate issue. However, if the BIOS recognizes it but not during installation, the solution lies within this guide.

2. Understanding Intel Volume Management Device

The 11th generation Intel processors (also known as Intel Tiger Lake) utilize Intel Volume Management Device (VMD) technology. To ensure it properly recognizes HDD or SSD drives during Windows 10 installation, you need to install the Intel Rapid Storage Technology (IRST) driver.

3. Solving the Installation Problem

To resolve the issue of Windows 10 installation not detecting the hard drive on 11th generation Intel processors, follow these simple steps:

3.1 Download the IRST Driver

1. Visit the Intel website and download the Intel Rapid Storage Technology driver that matches your Windows version.

3.2 Prepare the Driver

1. Decompress the downloaded driver and transfer its contents to a USB flash drive.

3.3 Start Windows 10 Installation

1. Begin the Windows 10 installation process on your laptop and proceed until it recognizes the hard drives.

3.4 Load the IRST Driver

1. If it doesn’t detect the hard drive during installation, click on the “Load driver” option.

3.5 Select the IRST Driver Folder

1. Choose the IRST driver folder from the USB flash drive when prompted.

3.6 Complete the Installation

1. After installing the IRST driver, it should detect the hard drive, and you can proceed with the installation.

4. Alternative Solution

If you prefer a simpler approach, you can disable the Intel Volume Management Device (VMD) in the BIOS. This might solve the hard drive recognition issue without needing additional drivers.

5. Conclusion

Installing Windows 10 on laptops with 11th generation Intel processors can be frustrating if it doesn’t recognize the hard drive. By following the steps to download and install the IRST driver or disabling Intel VMD, you can resolve this issue effectively. Enjoy the seamless experience of Windows 10 on your 11th generation Intel processor!

FAQs

1. What is the problem faced when installing Windows 10 on 11th generation Intel processors?

The problem is that it may not detect the hard disk or SSD drive during the installation process.

2. How can I resolve the issue of Windows 10 installation not detecting the hard drive?

You can resolve this issue by downloading and installing the Intel Rapid Storage Technology (IRST) driver during the Windows 10 installation.

3. Is there an alternative solution to the installation problem?

Yes, you can disable the Intel Volume Management Device (VMD) in the BIOS for a simpler solution.

4. Can I download the IRST driver from the Intel website?

Yes, visit the Intel website and download the IRST driver that matches your Windows version.

5. Will following the provided steps ensure a smooth installation process?

Absolutely! By following the steps to download and install the IRST driver or disabling Intel VMD, you can successfully resolve the hard drive recognition issue during the Windows 10 installation on 11th generation Intel processors.