how to boot windows 10/11 from usb

Booting Windows 11 from a USB is a two-part process: first, you must create the "Bootable Media," and then you must tell your computer to start from that USB drive instead of its internal hard drive.

Phase 1: Create the Bootable USB (The Official Way)

1. Preparation: Use a blank USB drive with at least 8GB of space. Note that all data on the USB will be erased.

2. Download: Go to the official Microsoft Windows 11 Download Page.

3. Run the Tool: Under the "Create Windows 11 Installation Media" section, click Download Now and run the .exe file.

4. Configuration: * Accept the terms.

   • Select "Create installation media for another PC."

   • Choose USB flash drive when prompted.

   • Select your USB from the list and wait for it to finish (this can take 10–20 minutes depending on your internet speed).

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Phase 2: Booting from the USB

Once the USB is ready, plug it into the PC you want to install Windows on and follow these steps:

Method A: The Boot Menu Key (Easiest)

1. Restart your PC.

2. As soon as the logo (HP, Dell, ASUS, etc.) appears, rapidly tap the Boot Menu Key.

   • Common Keys: F12 (Dell/Lenovo), F9 (HP), F8 (ASUS), or F11/Esc.

3. A list will appear; select your USB Drive (it might say "UEFI: [USB Name]") and press Enter.

Method B: From within Windows 11 (If PC is working)

1. Go to Settings > System > Recovery.

2. Next to Advanced startup, click Restart now.

3. After the blue screen appears, select Use a device and choose your USB Drive.

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🛠️ Troubleshooting Tips for 2025

• Secure Boot: Windows 11 requires UEFI and Secure Boot. If your USB doesn't show up, enter your BIOS (usually by tapping F2 or Del at startup) and ensure "Boot Mode" is set to UEFI, not "Legacy/CSM."

• USB 3.0 vs 2.0: For the fastest installation, use a blue (USB 3.0) port. If the installer freezes, try a black (USB 2.0) port, as some older motherboards struggle to boot from 3.0.

• TPM 2.0: If the setup says "This PC can't run Windows 11," make sure TPM 2.0 is enabled in your BIOS under the "Security" or "Advanced" tab.

Would you like a list of the specific Boot Menu keys for your laptop brand, or do you need help with the Windows 11 installation steps once the USB starts?