Traditionally, installing Windows operating systems required a CD or DVD, a method that many of us grew accustomed to over the years. However, as technology has advanced, so have the methods of installation. Today, there are multiple software options available, many of which are free, that allow users to create bootable USB drives for any Windows version, including the latest Windows 11/10 OS. Among these tools, Microsoft has officially introduced the “Windows USB/DVD Download Tool.” This efficient tool is designed to help users create a bootable USB drive for Windows 11, 10, 8.1, and even Windows 7 directly from an ISO file. Notably, its user interface is designed to be intuitive, catering to both tech-savvy individuals and those less acquainted with such processes. Moreover, its versatility is commendable, supporting both 64-bit and 32-bit operating systems. Another standout in this category is “ISO2Disc,” a freeware that offers not just the ability to create a bootable USB but also a Windows To Go Drive, presenting an all-rounded solution for varying user needs.
See the above image; a straightforward option is available for creating a bootable CD / DVD and a USB drive. Just click the Browse button, select the ISO file location of your operating system you want to burn, and select the target as CD / DVD or USB flash drive.
How to Create Bootable USB & Windows To Go Drive?
Follow these steps to create a Bootable USB & Windows To Go Drive:-
Step 1. Download the ISO2Disc freeware tool (the link is given at the end of this article).
Step 2. Install and run the software from the Desktop shortcut.
Step 3. Connect your USB Flash Drive with your PC.
Step 4. Select the ISO Image of the OS you want to burn to a USB flash drive, and in “Select target,” choose “Burn to USB Flash Drive.”
Step 5. Then, the software will automatically detect the USB drive; if not, hit the Refresh button to detect it.
Step 6. Next, click the “Start Burn” button.
Step 7. Next, you will show a warning message, “All data on the selected USB flash drive will be destroyed! Do you want to continue?”
Step 8. Press the “Yes” button to continue.
Step 9. Then, you will get a message, “Format was unable to complete successfully.”
Note: It shows the wrong message. But it formats the USB drive successfully.
Step 10. Again, press “Start Burn” to create a bootable USB flash drive.
You will see the completion of the progress bar.
It may take a few minutes to complete the process of burning the USB drive, depending on your computer’s and USB drive speed.
Note: To create a Windows To Go USB Drive, you change the Bootdisk Type to “Windows To Go (Install Windows to USB).” Other options you can leave as default. The Windows To Drive option will not appear when selecting Windows 7, Vista, or XP ISO files. This feature is available only on Windows 8, 8.1, 10, and 11.
You might already know that Microsoft’s Windows To Go feature has been officially removed in Windows 10, version 2004, and later operating systems because this feature does not support feature updates, so it does not enable it to stay current. It also requires a specific type of USB (USB 2.0 or USB 3.0) that is no longer supported by many OEMs.
Advantages of ISO2Disc
- Potty and user-friendly interface.
- Supports the burning of ISO image files to CD, DVD, and Blu-ray Disc.
- Supports burning ISO image files to USB flash drives, memory sticks, and other USB storage devices.
- Support creating a bootable CD/DVD or USB flash drive from any bootable CD image, including Windows Setup ISO, Linux, Ubuntu, and another customized boot image.
- They are used for creating a Windows To Go USB drive, enabling boot, and running Windows from a USB drive.
- Support to create a bootable USB flash drive with either GPT or MBR partition table.
- Ability to add/remove RAID/SCSI/SATA/IDE drivers to your WIM image.
- Free to use for both personal and commercial use.
- Compatible with Windows 8/7/2008/Vista/XP/2000/2003.
Download ISO2Disc
You can download the ISO2Disk from its official website.
Conclusion
The evolution of technology has brought about a shift from traditional CD or DVD installations of Windows operating systems to more efficient methods. Tools such as Microsoft’s “Windows USB/DVD Download Tool” and “ISO2Disc” are exemplary of this change. While the former provides a straightforward approach, the latter offers comprehensive solutions for creating not just bootable USB drives but also a Windows To Go Drive. ISO2Disc stands out with its wide range of features, compatibility across multiple Windows versions, and user-friendliness. As we migrate to more digital and versatile methods of installation, such tools are imperative for tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
