A Step-by-Step Guide: Installing Windows 11 Using a USB Pendrive and the Media Creation Tool

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Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft, featuring a sleek and modern design with a host of new features and improvements. If you’re eager to upgrade your computer to Windows 11, one of the most convenient methods is to create a bootable USB pendrive and install the new OS from it. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to install Windows 11 using a USB pendrive.

a laptop and houseplants on a desk in an apartment

Before You Begin

Before you start, make sure to gather the following:

  1. A USB pendrive with at least 8GB of storage capacity.
  2. At least 6GB of High Speed Data.
  3. A Windows PC that meets the system requirements for Windows 11.
  4. A USB port to insert your pendrive.
  5. Backup your data: Installing a new operating system can lead to data loss, so it’s essential to back up all your important files.

Step 1: Downloading the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool

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  1. Visit the official Microsoft website to download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool.
  2. Once the tool is downloaded, run it as an administrator.

Step 2: Creating a Bootable USB Pendrive

  1. When you run the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool, you’ll be presented with the “Windows 11 Setup” window.
  2. Read and accept the license terms.
  3. You’ll be given two options: a. “Upgrade this PC now”: This option allows you to upgrade your current Windows installation to Windows 11. If you want to create a bootable USB pendrive, select the “Create installation media for another PC” option.
  4. Click “Next” to proceed.
  5. Select the language, edition, and architecture for Windows 11. It’s recommended to leave the default options selected to create an installation media suitable for most PCs. Click “Next” to continue.
  6. Choose “USB flash drive” as your media type. The tool will detect and list any compatible USB pendrives. Select your pendrive from the list and click “Next.”
  7. The tool will download Windows 11 and create a bootable USB pendrive. This process may take some time, depending on your internet connection and pendrive speed.
  8. Once the tool has finished creating the bootable pendrive, you’ll receive a message that says “Your USB flash drive is ready.” Click “Finish” to close the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool.

Step 3: Booting from the USB Pendrive

  1. With the bootable USB pendrive now ready, restart your computer.
  2. During the startup process, you may need to press a key (usually F2, F10, F12, ESC, or DEL) to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings.
  3. In the BIOS or UEFI settings, navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Order” section and set the USB pendrive as the first boot option.
  4. Save your changes and exit the BIOS or UEFI settings.
  5. Your computer will now boot from the USB pendrive, launching the Windows 11 installation process.

Step 4: Installing Windows 11

  1. Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the Windows 11 installation.
  2. You’ll be prompted to select language, time, and keyboard preferences.
  3. Enter your product key if required, or you can skip this step and activate Windows later.
  4. Choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” to select the installation partition.
  5. Select the partition where you want to install Windows 11, and click “Next.” This will format the partition and install the new operating system.
  6. Windows 11 will proceed to install. The installation process may take some time, so be patient.
  7. Once the installation is complete, your computer will restart, and you’ll be prompted to set up your user account and personalize Windows 11.

Creating a bootable USB pendrive using the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool is a convenient way to install Windows 11 on your PC. Ensure you follow the steps carefully, and you’ll be up and running with Windows 11 in no time. Remember to back up your data before performing any major system changes.

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