Install Windows 11 using a USB Drive
In this guide, we'll explain how to reinstall Windows 11 using a USB drive. Ensure you have an 8GB or larger USB drive, and be aware that its contents will be erased. We strongly recommend backing up all files on an external hard drive or a cloud storage service before proceeding.
Note: If you're looking to upgrade from an older version of Windows to Windows 11, download the "Windows 11 Installation Assistant" in Step 2 and follow the instructions.
STEP 1: Visit Microsoft download page
STEP 2: Download Media Creation Tool
Click on "Download now" to get the "Media Creation Tool." This tool will assist us in creating the installation files for Windows 11.
STEP 3: Open the tool
Launch the program after the download is complete.
STEP 4: Accept the license conditions
To proceed, accept the license terms by clicking on Accept. The installation process will continue after this step.
STEP 5: Select language
Select your preferred language and click Next to proceed.
STEP 6: Install on USB drive
Specify that you want to create the Windows 11 installation file on a USB drive, then click Next.
STEP 7: Select USB drive
Choose your USB drive from the list of removable drives and click Next.
Remember, your USB drive should be empty, as any files on it will be automatically deleted during this process!
STEP 8: Wait for the download
The Windows 11 tool will download to your USB drive, which might take some time. Please wait patiently for the process to complete.
STEP 9: Complete
Once the download is complete, your USB drive is ready for installation. Click Finish to proceed.
Installation - Connect USB drive to PC
You're now prepared to install Windows 11 on your computer using the USB flash drive. Follow the steps below to complete the installation process.
STEP 1: Turn off the computer and connect the USB drive
Begin by shutting down your computer. Insert the USB drive into one of your computer's USB ports and then power on your computer.
The installation should automatically start, allowing you to proceed to Step 2. If it doesn't, follow these steps to instruct your computer to boot from the USB flash drive:
- Power on your computer and immediately press one of the following keys repeatedly: ESC, DELETE, F2, F10, F11, or F12. The specific key varies between computers but is typically F11 or F12. Press the key several times to access the motherboard's settings, known as BIOS. You should see an indication of which button to press on the screen when the computer is in the starting process.
- Within BIOS, locate the Boot Priority or Boot Order, usually found in the Settings menu.
- Click on Boot Option and select your USB drive as the boot device.
- Exit BIOS and reboot your computer by choosing Exit and Save Settings.
If you are unable to identify which button turns on the BIOS, it is recommended that you contact your computer manufacturer, search online, or read your computer's user manual.
STEP 2: Choose language, time and currency format
Choose the language, time, and currency formats, as well as the keyboard layout for Windows 11. Click Next and then select Install now.
STEP 3: Click install
STEP 4: Enter the product key
When prompted for your product key, enter the license key that we provided via email. Click Next to continue.
STEP 5: Choose operating system
Select the desired operating system for your computer, either Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro, based on the key you purchased from us. Click Next to proceed.
In some cases, you may not have the option to choose the operating system, which could depend on your previous OS. Don't worry; you'll still be able to activate your license key after the installation is complete.
STEP 6: Accept license terms
To proceed, accept the license terms by checking the box next to "I accept the license terms," and then click Next.
STEP 7: Select installation
Choose Custom: Install Windows (Advanced).
STEP 8: Choose hard drive
Select an empty hard drive to install Windows 11 on and click Next to begin the installation.
If you need to use a non-empty hard drive, choose the drive and click Delete or Format. Then, select the hard drive and click the corresponding buttons below it.
Finished!
The installation wizard will now start transferring Windows files to your computer. This process's duration may vary depending on your system and could take some time.
Upon completion, your computer will reboot. In some cases, you might get stuck in a boot loop where the system tries to return you to the installation process. This can occur if the system is attempting to read from the USB drive instead of the hard drive where the OS was installed. If this happens, remove the USB drive and restart your computer.
