How to Install Windows 11 via a USB Drive

Installing Windows 11 from a USB drive is one of the fastest and most reliable ways to give your PC a fresh start. Whether you’re upgrading from Windows 10 or doing a clean install, this guide will walk you through every step — even if you’re not super tech-savvy.

🔧 What You’ll Need

Before starting, make sure you have all the necessary items ready. This helps avoid interruptions later.

• A USB flash drive (at least 8GB)
• A working PC with internet access
• The PC you want to install Windows 11 on
• Your Windows 11 product key (if needed)

🚀 Step 1: Download the Windows 11 Installation Media Tool

First, you’ll need the installation tool provided by Microsoft. Here’s how to get it:

1. Go to the official Microsoft Download Page.
2. Then, scroll to “Create Windows 11 Installation Media”.
3. Next, click on “Download Now” to start the download.

💽 Step 2: Create the Bootable USB Drive

After downloading the tool, use it to create your bootable USB:

1. Insert your USB drive into the working PC.
2. Open the Media Creation Tool you just downloaded.
3. Accept the license terms and select “Create installation media (USB flash drive)”.
4. Choose your language and edition carefully.
5. Now, select USB flash drive as the media to use.
6. From the list, pick the correct USB drive.
7. Finally, click Next, and let it prepare the installer.

⚠️ Important: This process will erase all data on the USB drive. Therefore, make sure you’ve backed it up beforehand.

💻 Step 3: Boot the Target PC from the USB

Once your USB drive is ready, proceed with the following steps on the target PC:

1. Insert the USB drive into your target PC.
2. Restart the PC and enter the boot menu (usually F2, F12, Del, or Esc).
3. From the boot menu, select the USB drive as the boot device.

🛠️ Step 4: Install Windows 11

Now you’re ready to install Windows 11. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Select your language, time format, and keyboard layout.
2. Click on Install Now to begin.
3. Input your product key or choose “I don’t have a product key” if applicable.
4. Then, choose the edition
5. For a fresh start, select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
6. Choose the drive or partition for the installation.
7. Click Next and allow Windows to install itself.

The system will restart multiple times during the process. Don’t worry — this is normal.

🧰 Step 5: Complete Setup

Once installation finishes, complete the final setup:

1. Select your region and keyboard layout.
2. Connect to Wi-Fi for updates and login.
3. Log in with a Microsoft account or create one.
4. Next, adjust your privacy settings based on your preferences.
5. Finally, let Windows finalize everything and take you to the desktop.

🧠 Pro Tips

Here are some extra tips to enhance your experience:

• 💡 Keep your device drivers handy, especially for custom builds.
• 💡 Right after setup, go to Settings > Windows Update to get the latest patches.
• 💡 Additionally, install antivirus software and check your drivers for smooth operation.

🔚 Final Thoughts

To sum up, installing Windows 11 from a USB drive might sound technical at first. However, with this guide, it’s straightforward and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re upgrading or fixing a sluggish system, this method ensures a clean, fresh start.

Still facing issues? Drop your questions in the comments below — we’re here to help!