How to Install Windows 11 with a USB Drive: Step-by-Step Guide
Want to install Windows 11 yourself? This guide explains how to create the USB key, boot from it and install the system, step by step.
Before you begin
Installing Windows 11 from a USB drive is within everyone's reach, as long as you pay attention. Take the time to read the whole guide before you start.
What you need
- A USB flash drive of at least 8 GB. Its contents will be erased.
- A working computer connected to the Internet to create the drive. This can be the one where you will install Windows, or another one.
- The computer to install on. It must be compatible with Windows 11.
- An activation key if your computer doesn't already have one. If Windows was already activated on the machine, it often reactivates by itself after installation once you're connected to the Internet.
- An external drive or another USB drive to back up your files.
Time and skill level
Level: intermediate. Allow about one to two hours, depending on the speed of your computer, your USB flash drive and your connection. The download is the longest part. Don't rush.
Important precautions
- Back up your data. Depending on the choice made during installation, the disk may be erased. Copy your documents, photos and important files elsewhere before starting.
- Note down your access details. Keep your passwords and any activation key within reach.
- Check compatibility. Windows 11 requires a fairly recent computer. Check the official requirements on the Microsoft website, or use the compatibility checker offered by Microsoft.
- On a laptop, plug in the charger and make sure the battery is well charged. A power cut during installation can cause problems.
- In Tunisia, power cuts happen. If you have a UPS, use it for a desktop PC.
- Static electricity. If you need to touch the inside of a desktop PC (for example to add a drive), turn it off, unplug the power cable and touch a metal part of the case before handling components. For a simple Windows installation, you do not need to open the computer.
Step 1: create the USB installation drive
- Plug the USB drive into a computer connected to the Internet. Copy its contents elsewhere: it will be erased.
- Open your browser and search for the Windows 11 download page on the official Microsoft website. Avoid third-party sites.
- Find the section "Create Windows 11 installation media" and download the Media Creation Tool.
- Run the downloaded file and accept the terms.
- Choose the offered language and version. Generally keep the recommended options.
- When the tool asks which media to use, choose USB flash drive.
- Select your drive from the list. Make sure it is the right one.
- Wait while the download and preparation complete. Do not remove the drive before the completion message appears.
Step 2: boot the computer from the USB drive
By default, the computer boots from its disk. You need to tell it to boot from the drive.
- Shut down the computer to be installed.
- Plug in the USB flash drive. On a desktop PC, prefer a rear port, directly on the motherboard.
- Turn on the computer and press the boot menu key several times as soon as the first screen appears.
- In the list, choose your USB drive, then confirm with Enter.
Which key should I use?
It depends on the brand. The most common keys are F12, F11 and Escape (Esc). Here is a general guide:
| Key to try | Note |
|---|---|
| F12 | Very common, try it first |
| F11 | Used on some models |
| Esc (Escape) | Sometimes opens a menu with the boot choice |
If nothing happens, shut down and try again with another key. Also check the text displayed at startup: it often indicates the correct key. Otherwise, consult the manual for your motherboard or computer.
If the drive does not appear in the list, try another USB port or recreate the drive.
Step 3: install Windows 11
- The Windows installation screen appears. Choose the language, time format and keyboard, then click Next.
- Click Install now.
- Enter your activation key if you are asked for it. If you don't have one, you can usually skip this step and activate Windows later.
- Choose the version of Windows that matches your license, if a list is displayed.
- Accept the terms.
- Choose the type of installation. To reset a machine to a clean state, select the custom installation ("Custom").
- Choose the disk on which to install Windows. Read carefully before deleting anything: deleting a partition permanently erases its data.
- Click Next and wait. The computer restarts several times. This is normal.
- When the computer restarts for the first time, you can remove the USB flash drive so that it boots from the disk.
- Follow the setup screens: region, keyboard, network, account. An Internet connection is often required to create the account.
After installation
- Launch Windows Update to receive updates.
- Install the missing drivers (display, network, audio) from Windows Update or the manufacturer's website.
- Restore your backed-up files.
- Install your software and an antivirus.
Mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting to back up your files.
- Using a drive that is too small or already faulty.
- Downloading Windows from an unofficial site.
- Turning off the computer during installation, even if it seems long.
- Delete the wrong partition, especially if the PC has several drives. If possible, unplug the other drives before installing.
- Leaving the drive plugged in and getting stuck in a loop on the installation screen.
If it doesn't work
If the drive is not recognized, try another USB flash drive. If the installer finds no drive, or if the drive is very slow or faulty, it is probably time to replace it. An SSD also gives a much faster boot. You can find USB flash drives and SSDs at OffiPro, delivered everywhere in Tunisia.
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose my files when installing Windows 11?
It depends on the choice made during installation. If you format or delete partitions, the data will be erased. In all cases, make a backup before you start.
Can I use the USB flash drive for several computers?
Yes, the drive can be used to install Windows on several compatible machines. However, each computer must have its own valid license.
My computer won't boot from the drive, what should I do?
Try another key (F12, F11 or Esc), another USB port, or recreate the drive. Also make sure the drive was fully prepared until the completion message. If the problem persists, try another USB drive.
