How to install Windows 11 from USB?

Windows 11 represents the most recent operating system release from Microsoft, featuring a modern interface, enhanced security measures, and superior performance capabilities. For those looking to install Windows 11 on their personal computer, utilizing a USB drive is among the most effective approaches. This guide will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough for both clean installations and upgrades from Windows 10.


Prerequisites for Installing Windows 11

Prior to commencing the installation, please verify that your system fulfills the following criteria:

1. Minimum System Specifications

To successfully install Windows 11, your computer must adhere to these minimum requirements:
  • Processor: 1 GHz or faster with a minimum of 2 cores (64-bit architecture)
  • RAM: 4 GB or greater
  • Storage: At least 64 GB of available space
  • Firmware: UEFI with Secure Boot activated
  • TPM (Trusted Platform Module): Version 2.0
  • Graphics Card: Must support DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver
  • Display: Minimum 720p HD display (9 inches)
To verify your PC's compatibility, utilize Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool.





2. Necessary Tools
  • USB Flash Drive (minimum 8GB capacity)
  • Windows 11 ISO File
  • A PC with Internet Connectivity

Step-by-Step Instructions for Installing Windows 11 from USB

Step 1: Obtain Windows 11 ISO

To install Windows 11, you must acquire the official Windows 11 ISO file:
  1. Visit the Microsoft Windows 11 Download Page.
  2. Scroll to the "Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)" section.
  3. Select "Windows 11" and click Download.
  4. Choose your desired language and click Confirm.
  5. Click the 64-bit Download button to initiate the download of the ISO file.
Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

To create a bootable USB drive, adhere to the following steps:

Using Rufus (Recommended Method)
  • Download and install Rufus.
  • Insert your USB drive (ensure it contains no important data as it will be formatted).
  • Open Rufus and select your USB drive from the Device list.
  • Click on Select and choose the downloaded Windows 11 ISO.
  • Select GPT under Partition Scheme (for UEFI systems).
  • Choose NTFS for the File System.
Click Start, wait for the process to finish, and then exit Rufus.

Using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool

Alternatively, you may use Microsoft's tool:
  1. Download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
  2. Run the tool and select Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file).
  3. Choose USB flash drive and select your device.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the procedure.



Step 3: Adjust BIOS/UEFI Settings
  • Prior to installing Windows 11, ensure your system is configured to boot from the USB drive:
  • Restart your PC and access the BIOS/UEFI (typically by pressing F2, F12, DEL, or ESC during startup).
  • Navigate to the Boot menu and designate the USB drive as the primary boot device.
  • Enable Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 if necessary.
  • Save modifications and exit.
Step 4: Install Windows 11
  1. Insert the bootable USB drive and restart your computer.
  2. Your system should boot from the USB drive. If it does not, access the boot menu (by pressing F12 or ESC) and select the USB drive.
  3. The Windows 11 Setup screen will be displayed.
  4. Choose your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click Next.
  5. Click Install Now.
  6. Input a valid Windows 11 product key (or skip this step if you do not possess one).
  7. Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) for a fresh installation.
  8. Identify the drive where Windows 11 will be installed. Format it if necessary.
  9. Click Next to initiate the installation.
The installation process may take between 15 to 30 minutes. Your computer will restart multiple times throughout the procedure.

Step 5: Set Up Windows 11

Upon completion of the installation, follow these steps to configure Windows 11:
  1. Select your region and keyboard layout.
  2. Connect to Wi-Fi (if necessary).
  3. Set up a Microsoft Account or create a local account.
  4. Adjust privacy settings and other preferences.
  5. Install the latest Windows updates.
Congratulations! 🎉 Your installation of Windows 11 is now complete.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. USB Drive Not Recognized in BIOS
  • Attempt using a different USB port.
  • Ensure the USB drive is formatted correctly.
  • Update the BIOS firmware if required.
2. "This PC Can’t Run Windows 11" Error
  • Enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot in the BIOS.
  • Verify that your PC meets the minimum system requirements.
3. Installation Freezes or Fails
  • Disconnect unnecessary external devices (USB drives, printers, etc.).
  • Recreate the bootable USB drive using an alternative tool.


Conclusion

Installing Windows 11 from a USB drive is a simple process when the correct steps are followed. By preparing a bootable USB drive, adjusting BIOS settings, and adhering to the installation wizard, you can have Windows 11 operational in a short time. Should you face any issues, troubleshooting common problems can assist you in resolving them.

Now that you have successfully installed Windows 11, take the time to explore its new features and enjoy a modern computing experience!

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