Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: Windows 10 Tech Preview error: "Windows cannot be installed on MBR disks". My hard drive is GPT. Why am I getting this error?

Windows cannot be installed on MBR disks error due to GPT partition table misunderstanding.

Quick Answer: Try using the 'Advanced' option during installation and select 'Custom: (advanced)'. Then, choose your GPT disk as the installation media.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. ⚠️ Common Causes
  2. 🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps
  3. 💡 Conclusion

The Windows 10 Tech Preview error 'Windows cannot be installed on MBR disks' occurs when attempting to install Windows on a disk with a GPT partition table. This issue affects users who are trying to install Windows 10 Tech Preview from a USB drive and have a GPT-formatted hard drive.

This error can be frustrating, especially for those who have taken the time to ensure their disk is properly formatted as GPT. However, in this guide, we will explore the possible causes of this issue and provide methods to fix it.

⚠️ Common Causes

  • The primary reason why Windows fails to recognize a GPT-formatted hard drive is due to a compatibility issue between the Windows 10 Tech Preview installer and the disk's partition table. The Windows 10 Tech Preview installer may not be able to read or write to a GPT partition table, leading to this error.
  • Another possible reason for this issue is that the GPT partition table on the hard drive contains a Master Boot Record (MBR) that is not compatible with the Windows 10 Tech Preview installer. This MBR can cause the installer to fail and display the 'Windows cannot be installed on this disk' error.

🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps

Using a different installation media

  1. Step 1: Create a new USB drive with the Windows 10 Tech Preview installation media using a version of the installer that is compatible with GPT partition tables. You can use an older version of the Windows 10 Tech Preview or download a custom ISO file from Microsoft's website.
  2. Step 2: Insert the new USB drive and restart your computer. Follow the on-screen instructions to select the correct disk and begin the installation process. This method may take longer than usual, but it should resolve the compatibility issue with GPT partition tables.

Using a bootable Linux distribution

  1. Step 1: Boot your computer from a live USB drive or CD/DVD containing a Linux distribution (such as Ubuntu or Fedora) that supports GPT partition tables. This will allow you to access the disk and perform any necessary repairs.
  2. Step 2: Once booted into the Linux distribution, use tools such as `gdisk` or `parted` to repair the MBR on the hard drive. You can then create a new GPT partition table and format the disk for Windows 10 Tech Preview installation.

💡 Conclusion

By following one of the methods outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve the 'Windows cannot be installed on MBR disks' error and successfully install Windows 10 Tech Preview on your GPT-formatted hard drive.

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