Windows 11, the latest iteration of Microsoft’s renowned operating system, has taken the tech world by storm since its launch in October last year. Those curious about the new aesthetic and functional changes in Windows 11 might be considering an upgrade from their existing Windows version. Before taking the plunge, it’s prudent to ascertain whether your current system meets the requirements of Windows 11. Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool, available for download on the official Windows website, serves this very purpose.
If you have procured the Windows 11 ISO and are eager to experience the latest features, creating a bootable USB flash drive is an efficient route. A bootable USB offers the convenience of testing, installing, or even reinstalling the OS without the need for a physical disc. With Windows 11 having reached its definitive version, you might contemplate replacing your current OS with it. However, if you’re hesitant to part with your older Windows version, there’s always the option of installing Windows 11 on a separate partition, ensuring both versions coexist.
In this guide by risewindows, we will delve into the specifics of crafting a Bootable USB Flash Drive for Windows 11. While there’s a plethora of tools available for this purpose, our focus will be on utilizing Rufus – a popular and trusted software for creating bootable USB drives.
How to Create a Bootable USB Flash Drive for Windows 11?
Follow these steps to create a Bootable USB Flash Drive for Windows 11:-
Step 1. Download the latest version of Rufus software from its official website on your Windows 7, 8, or 10 OS.
Step 2. Launch this utility when downloaded on your PC.
Click the Yes button if User Accounts Control appears on your Windows screen.
Step 3. After that, connect your 16 GB or more spacious USB flash drive to your Windows PC. Rufus will detect it automatically.
Note: Make sure no data is available in the USB pen drive because this process will erase all the data on that device before processing. So you are requested to move your data somewhere in a safe place.
Step 4. Then, click on the Select button under the Boot selection section.
Step 5. Select the Windows 11 Bootable ISO file and click the Open button in the next window.
Step 6. After that, select the “File System” as NTFS and leave all other settings as it is. You can also refer to the below image.
Step 7. Finally, click the Start button to start copying the files and creating the bootable USB flash drive for Windows 11.
Step 8. A pop-up message will come stating that it will erase all the data. Next, click on the OK button to continue. After that, you will observe that files are getting transferred to your USB flash drive. Wait until this process is complete.
After this process, you will have a bootable USB drive for Windows 11. Further, it would be best to make changes to the UEFI/BOOT of your Windows PC to install it. There is no need to burn this ISO file to any CD/DVD. It benefits newer PCs as most do not come with CD/DVD drives.
Also Read: How to Change Default Startup Tab of Task Manager on Windows 11?
Conclusion
Windows 11 has brought significant changes and features, enticing many users to consider upgrading from their older versions. For those considering this transition, creating a bootable USB flash drive is a versatile method to test, install, or even reinstall the new OS. The process is streamlined and simple with the right tools. In the guide provided, Rufus is showcased as the recommended software to craft a bootable USB for Windows 11. As technology advances, methods like these become paramount, especially given the decline of CD/DVD drives in modern PCs. Therefore, having a bootable USB is not just a convenience but an essential tool in the contemporary tech landscape.
