How to install windows 11 from usb step by step How to install windows 11 from usb step by step

How to Install Windows 11 from USB Step by Step

Step-by-step guide to install Windows 11 from USB, covering bootable USB creation, BIOS setup, installation, and initial configuration for a smooth Windows 11 setup.

Installing Windows 11 from a USB drive is a reliable and efficient method, especially when upgrading or installing on a fresh PC. This step-by-step guide walks you through creating a bootable USB and performing a clean installation of Windows 11 without hassle.

What You Need Before Starting

  • A USB flash drive with at least 8GB of storage.
  • A stable internet connection.
  • A valid Windows 11 license or product key.
  • A PC compatible with Windows 11 system requirements.

Step 1: Download the Windows 11 Installation Media

  • Go to the official Microsoft website and find the Windows 11 download page.
  • Download the Media Creation Tool or the Windows 11 ISO file directly.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

Using the Media Creation Tool:

  • Run the downloaded tool.
  • Accept license terms.
  • Choose Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) and click Next.
  • Select language, edition, and architecture (usually 64-bit).
  • Choose USB flash drive as the media.
  • Select your USB drive from the list and click Next.
  • The tool will download and copy Windows 11 files onto the USB, making it bootable.

Alternatively, use tools like Rufus to create a bootable USB from the ISO file.

Step 3: Configure BIOS/UEFI to Boot From USB

  • Insert the bootable USB into the target PC.
  • Restart the computer and enter BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, Del, or F12 during startup).
  • Navigate to the Boot menu.
  • Set the USB drive as the first boot device.
  • Save changes and exit BIOS.

Step 4: Start the Windows 11 Installation Process

  • Your PC will restart and boot from the USB.
  • The Windows 11 setup screen appears.
  • Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences. Click Next.
  • Click Install now.

Step 5: Enter Your Product Key

  • Enter your Windows 11 license key when prompted.
  • If you don’t have one, select I don’t have a product key and activate Windows later.

Step 6: Choose Installation Type

  • Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) for a clean install.
  • If upgrading, choose Upgrade instead.

Step 7: Select Installation Drive

  • Choose the drive where you want to install Windows 11.
  • If necessary, delete existing partitions to create space.
  • Click Next to begin installation.

Step 8: Wait for Installation to Complete

  • The setup will copy files, install features, and configure settings automatically.
  • Your PC may restart several times during the process.

Step 9: Set Up Windows 11

  • After installation, follow on-screen prompts to configure settings.
  • Connect to Wi-Fi, sign in with your Microsoft account, and set preferences.
  • Complete initial setup.

Step 10: Install Drivers and Updates

  • Once on the desktop, connect to the internet.
  • Windows Update will download and install necessary drivers and updates.
  • Restart as prompted.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • USB not detected at boot: Check USB port and BIOS boot order.
  • Installation stuck: Wait patiently; installation can take time.
  • Compatibility issues: Verify your PC meets Windows 11 system requirements.

Final Thoughts

Installing Windows 11 from USB is straightforward with the right preparation. Creating a bootable USB, configuring BIOS correctly, and following installation prompts ensure a smooth experience. This method saves time and ensures a fresh, clean Windows setup.