How to Install Windows 11 from USB – Complete Guide (2025)

Windows 11 24H2 adds AI features (Recall, AI Actions), better energy efficiency, and centralized RGB control. If you’re ready to upgrade or perform a clean install, a USB flash drive is the fastest and most reliable method. In this guide, you’ll see the step-by-step process—from downloading the ISO to activating with a genuine product key.

Check the requirements – CPU, TPM 2.0, and Secure Boot

Component	Minimum	How to Check
CPU	1 GHz / 2 ядра 64-bit, listed by Microsoft	Settings → System → About
RAM	4 GB	Task Manager → Performance
Storage	64 GB free	Settings → System → Storage
TPM	2.0	tpm.msc → Status
Secure Boot	Enabled	BIOS → Security

Don’t meet these requirements? Check out our full TPM-checker guide (internal link).

Download the official Windows 11 ISO in English

Open Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool page.
Click “Create installation media” and download the tool.
Run MediaCreationToolW11.exe → select English (or other language), Windows 11 64-bit.

If you prefer the direct ISO option: on the same page, choose “Download ISO”, then select “English.”

Creating a Bootable USB

Method 1: Media Creation Tool

Insert a USB drive (8 GB or larger).
In the tool, select USB flash drive.
Wait for the ISO to load (~10 minutes).

Method 2: Rufus (supports GPT/UEFI and TPM bypass*)

Download Rufus 4.x.
Under Device, select your USB → Boot selection: Windows 11 ISO.
Partition scheme: GPT | Target system: UEFI.
Click Start → ready in about 8 minutes.

*The TPM 2.0 bypass removes official support — use only on older or test machines.

Common error 0x800701B1 – usually caused by a faulty USB 2.0 flash drive. Replace it with a USB 3.0 device.

BIOS/UEFI Settings – USB Boot Priority & Secure Boot

Motherboard Brand	Boot Menu Key	Secure Boot Menu
ASUS	F8	Advanced → Secure Boot
Gigabyte	F12	BIOS → Security
Lenovo (Laptop)	F12	Security → Secure Boot

1. Set USB as the first boot device.
2. Make sure UEFI mode is enabled.
3. Save changes (F10) and restart.

Step-by-step installation — screen by screen

Select language / keyboard → English (or other language).
Product Key — enter the key or I don’t have a key (you can activate later).
License Agreement → Accept.
Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) → select/create a partition.
The installer copies files (5–20 min).
Initial setup: Microsoft account, PIN, privacy.

Activate Windows 11

In-place upgrade → the key transfers automatically if it’s Genuine.
Clean installation → go to Settings → System → Activation → Change product key.
Retail license = used for upgrading the same PC.
OEM license = tied to that specific motherboard.

Common Errors and Solutions

Code / Message

Cause

Solution

0x800701B1

Faulty USB / slow port

Use a USB 3.0 (32 GB) and change the port

0x80300024

Old partition or MBR disk

Delete all partitions, convert to GPT

“This PC can’t run Windows 11”

TPM/CPU not on supported list

Check compatibility list; upgrade hardware

FAQ

How many GB should the USB be?
Use a flash drive ≥ 8 GB (we recommend a 16 GB USB 3.0 for the fastest installation).

Can I install Windows 11 without the Internet?
Installation can be done offline, but signing in to your Microsoft account and activating the key requires an internet connection.

Will my files be deleted?
If you choose Custom → Delete partitions, all files will be erased.
If you use Upgrade, your data will be kept — but always back up important files beforehand.

Can I go back to Windows 10?
Yes, within 10 days: go to Settings → System → Recovery → Go back.

Conclusion

Installing Windows 11 from a USB drive is easy as long as you:

Check your hardware requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot).
Download the official ISO and create a GPT/UEFI bootable USB.
Configure your BIOS for USB boot and follow the installer.
Activate with a genuine product key for full updates and support.

Follow these steps, and in less than an hour you’ll be running the latest version of Windows — faster, more secure, and ready for Microsoft’s AI-powered future.