For any user it is very practical to know how to create a Bootable USB to install Windows 11 on any PC. It is a really useful resource when it comes to installing operating systems, although it can also be used to perform diagnose problems and recover data when the system is unable to boot or has serious problems.
What we call «bootable USB« It is actually a USB drive that contains an operating system and other recovery tools. In other words, a device whose contents are used to start or "boot" a computer directly, without using the hard drive.
Any USB flash drive can be turned into a bootable USB flash drive to install Windows 11. This is known as making a USB "bootable". The only requirement is that you have the sufficient space as to host the image of the operating system that we want to install. As a general rule, it is usually recommended to have at least 8 GB of available space.
Another aspect to take into account before starting the process that we will explain below, is the convenience of format the USB memory that we are going to use. This will ensure that no unexpected errors occur during the process. Obviously, if the USB contains important data for us, we will have to make a backup copy of it before using the device.
Finally, it should be noted that, through this method, it is possible to boot almost any computer. However, in order for it to work on older models, it is possible that you may have to modify the boot order first. BIOS/UEFI settings.
Create a bootable USB to install Windows 11
Let's see what we need to do to create the bootable USB. First of all, it is necessary to download the Microsoft Media Creation Tool, which we will find in the Windows 11 official download website. Simply, in the “Create Windows 11 installation media” section, we click on “Download”.*
Once the tool has been downloaded and installed, follow these steps:
- First we insert the USB drive conveniently formatted.
- After we run the MediaCreationToolW11.exe tool, accepting the terms and conditions of use.
- We selected language, editing, and architecture (32 or 64 bits).
- Next we choose «USB Flash Drive» as the installation medium and press the “Next” button. This will cause the tool to download Windows 11 and create the bootable USB. The process may take a few minutes. When it is complete, the USB will be ready to be used as a boot device.
(*) Important: Microsoft does not recommend installing Windows 11 media on a PC that does not meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11, as this may lead to compatibility and update issues.
How to use bootable USB to install Windows 11
Now that we have the device ready, we can get down to business. We will be able to use this bootable USB to Install Windows 11 Virtually on any computer. All we have to do is follow these steps:
- First of all, We insert the USB on the PC where we want to install Windows 11.
- Then you have to restart the computer in order to be able to access the boot menu or BIOS (depending on the manufacturer, this is done by pressing keys such as F2, F12, Esc or Del).
- In the menu, we select the USB as Boot Device.
- Finally, all that remains is to follow the instructions in the Windows 11 installation wizard, choosing the language and edition to complete a clean installation.
The process of using a bootable USB to install Windows 11 is relatively simple, but it is important not to make any mistakes so that it can be completed successfully. This means that, among other things, We should avoid disconnecting the USB during the installation process. in order to avoid errors in the system. Of course, it is essential to follow the installer's instructions to the letter.
Some considerations on using bootable USB
Beyond the methods of creating the bootable USB and installing the operating system, there are certain things we should consider:
Although it is possible to use the same Windows 11 bootable USB on different computers, it is ideal to use a different bootable USB. have a bootable Windows 11 USB for each computer. This helps prevent potential compatibility conflicts.
Another aspect that we should not neglect is to keep the contents of the USB updated, so that it does not fail when using it to install Windows 11. To do this, you have to return to the official website from which the Windows 11 media creation tool is downloaded and select the option update existing media.
In addition to using a bootable USB to install Windows 11, you can also use this device simply to Test the operating system by running it directly without having to install it. We explain it to you here.
Finally, it should be noted that there are some programs specifically designed to help us create a bootable USB flash drive in a simple way. Among the most popular and used we can highlight: Rufus oa UNetbootin, among many others.
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