With the arrival of Windows 11, Microsoft has unveiled a fresh, sleek, and feature-rich operating system. From improved multitasking capabilities to enhanced security and advanced gaming features, Windows 11 is designed to elevate your digital experience. To help you get started, this guide will take you through the steps to how to install windows 11 from usb drive in a professional, seamless manner.
Why Install Windows 11 From a USB Drive?
USB installations are one of the most efficient ways to install an operating system. They’re not only fast and reliable but also perfect for users who may not have direct access to an existing operating system or internet connection. Installing via USB ensures you have full control over the process and can easily reinstall or upgrade Windows across multiple devices, if necessary.
Here’s how you can set up your USB installation step-by-step.
Step 1: Check System Requirements
Before you begin, ensure that your device meets the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11. These include:
- Processor: 1 GHz or faster with at least 2 cores and 64-bit compatibility
- RAM: 4 GB or more
- Storage: 64 GB or higher
- TPM Version: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- Display: High-definition (720p) monitor, greater than 9” diagonal
You can verify these requirements through system properties on your current OS or via Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool.
Step 2: Prepare the USB Drive
To create a bootable USB drive for Windows 11:
- Obtain a USB Drive: Use a USB drive with at least 8 GB of storage. Ensure it’s empty or back up data, as all content will be erased.
- Download the Media Creation Tool:
- Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool.
- Create the Bootable USB:
- Launch the Media Creation Tool, select “Create Installation Media for Another PC,” and follow prompts.
- Choose “USB Flash Drive” as the media type. The tool will download and prepare the installation files.
Always verify that the USB drive was set up correctly by double-checking its contents after the process is complete.
Step 3: Configure the Boot Order
Now that your bootable USB is ready, it’s time to configure your PC to boot from the USB:
- Restart your computer and access the BIOS or UEFI settings. (Typically, you’ll press a specific key like F2, F12, or DEL during startup).
- Locate the Boot Order or Boot Priority section.
- Set the USB drive as the first boot option. Save these changes and exit. Your system will now boot from the USB when plugged in.
Step 4: Begin the Installation Process
- Plug your USB drive into the computer you want to install Windows 11 on.
- Restart the PC, and the Windows installation process should begin. You’ll be greeted with a setup screen.
- Select your language, keyboard preferences, and time zone, then click Next.
- Enter your product key (if applicable) or choose the “I don’t have a product key” option to proceed.
- Decide between an Upgrade (keeping your files and settings) or a Custom Install (a clean setup).
Follow all prompts and instructions on the screen to complete the installation process.
Step 5: Final Configuration
Once the installation is complete:
- Configure your Microsoft account or create a local account.
- Set up your preferences and privacy settings.
- Allow the system to finish any post-installation updates.
Enjoy Windows 11!
And that’s it! You now have Windows 11 installed and ready to go. With your new OS, you’ll experience a refreshed interface, faster performance, and countless productivity features.