
There are basically two possible methods: either manually or using automated tools. Use a “portal operating system” on a foreign computerĪ bootable USB drive can of course be created on a different computer than the one you want to use it on later.“Clean” reinstallation of the operating system.Upgrade an old operating system to Windows 10.Use a recovery system to repair your PC.Here are all possible uses for a bootable USB drive: A portable operating system also offers more security in case a keylogger on a foreign computer stores your passwords or your computer is infected with a virus. This way, you can not only navigate in your familiar work environment but also access all your important documents via the cloud. With this, you can use your preferred Windows version with all your favorite tools and personal data on foreign computers without having to fuss with the operating system already installed (regardless of whether it’s Windows or something else). The drive also serves as a “clean” reinstallation of the operating system if it’s become too slow as a result of accumulated garbage.Įxperienced computer experts and IT professionals also like to use a bootable USB as a “ portable operating system” (the concept is known as “Windows2Go” for Microsoft). You can also use a bootable USB to upgrade Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10 if a previously automatic upgrade doesn’t function correctly. Split the Windows image file into smaller files, and put the smaller files onto the USB drive: Dism /Split-Image /ImageFile:D:\sources\install.wim /SWMFile:E:\sources\install.Even if no such PC emergency is present, it’s a good idea to have a Windows image for data backup on a USB-capable storage medium (could also be an external hard drive) on hand. If your image is larger than the filesize limit:Ĭopy everything except the Windows image file (sources\install.wim) to the USB drive (either drag and drop, or use this command, where D: is the mounted ISO and E: is the USB flash drive.) robocopy D: E: /s /max:3800000000 Windows USB install drives are formatted as FAT32, which has a 4GB filesize limit. Follow the instructions to install Windows. Select the option that boots the PC from the USB flash drive.

Turn on the PC and press the key that opens the boot-device selection menu for the computer, such as the Esc/F10/F12 keys. For more information, see Automate Windows Setup. Optional: add an unattend file to automate the installation process.


Use File Explorer to copy and paste the entire contents of the Windows product DVD or ISO to the USB flash drive. Step 2 - Copy Windows Setup to the USB flash drive If Mark Partition as Active isn't available, you can instead use diskpart to select the partition and mark it active.
