How to make a bootable Windows 10 USB
Conveniently boot Windows 10 with a compact USB
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Learning how to make a bootable USB install ofWindows 10is handy for installing or repairing youroperating system.
A bootable USB drive lets you perform a clean Windows 10 install, repair your current Windows installation, or upgrade your system conveniently without an optical drive. Not to mention, it’s a portable solution for troubleshooting and system recovery.
In this article, we explore how to create a bootable USB for Windows 10 using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool. However, since USB drives are slower than SSDs and hard drives, consider using thebest portable SSDsfor a swift and compact Windows 10 drive.
Tools and requirements
Steps for how to make bootable USB Windows 10
Step by step guide to make bootable USB Windows 10
1. Download and launch the Media Creation Tool
Visitthe officialMicrosoft Windows 10 download website,and underCreate Windows 10 installation media,click Download Now.
Launchthetoolandaccepttheterms.
2. Create installation media
SelectCreate installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PCandclick Next.
3. Set preferences
ChoosetheLanguage,Edition, andArchitecture(32-bit, 64-bit, or both) according to your needs. If you’re uncertain about what to select,tickthe box besideUse the recommended options for this PC.
Then,click Next.
4. Select USB flash drive
SelectUSB flash driveandclick Next.
You’ll then have toselectthedriveyou want toinstall Windows 10on. Note that theUSB drive you selectwill have all itscontent deleted.Click Nextafter selecting the right drive.
5. Downloading Windows 10
Aprogress indicatorwill show you how much of the Windows 10 download is complete.
Once it’s done,click Finish.
Tobootfrom theUSB drive,restartyour device andenter the boot menuby pressing the relevant key for your computer (F11, F12, Esc, or Delete). From the boot menu,select your Windows 10-installed USB drive, and then the Windows 10 setup will begin.
Final thoughts
Creating a bootable USB for Windows 10 may seem complex, but it’s easy as a breeze with the right tools. You can quickly have a bootable USB ready using the steps we’ve given above.
For more Windows-related tips, readhow to download and install Windows 11,how to set up your new Windows 11 laptop, andhow to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10.
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Nikshep Myle is a freelance writer covering tech, health, and wellbeing. He has written for popular tech blogs like Tom’s Guide, GadgetReview, SlashGear, and Creative Bloq, and has extensively reviewed consumer gadgets. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him meditating, gaming, discovering new music, and indulging in adventurous and creative pursuits.
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