how to create a windows 10 bootable usb

New Era

3 min read

·

12-10-2024

102

0

Share

How to Create a Bootable USB Drive for Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Need to reinstall Windows 10 or install it on a new computer? Creating a bootable USB drive is the way to go. This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, using resources from the GitHub community.

What is a Bootable USB Drive?

A bootable USB drive essentially turns your flash drive into a portable operating system. When you boot your computer from this USB drive, it loads Windows 10, allowing you to install it or repair your existing system.

Why Create a Bootable USB Drive?

There are several reasons why you might need a bootable USB drive:

• Clean Install: To install Windows 10 on a new computer or to completely wipe your current installation and start fresh.
• Repair: To troubleshoot and repair issues with your Windows 10 installation.
• Upgrade: To upgrade from a previous version of Windows.
• Backup: To create a backup of your Windows 10 installation.

Methods for Creating a Bootable USB Drive:

There are two primary methods for creating a bootable USB drive for Windows 10:

1. Using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool: This official Microsoft tool is a simple and user-friendly way to create a bootable USB drive.
2. Using a Command Prompt: This method offers more control and is useful for more advanced users.

Method 1: Using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool

Step 1: Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool:

• Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Media Creation Tool: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

Step 2: Run the tool:

• Double-click the downloaded file and follow the onscreen instructions.

Step 3: Choose your options:

• Select "Create installation media for another PC" and click "Next."
• Choose your language, edition, and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) of Windows 10.
• You can confirm your PC's architecture by going to Settings -> System -> About.

Step 4: Select your USB drive:

• Plug in a USB drive with at least 8GB of free space.
• The Media Creation Tool will automatically detect and list available USB drives. Select the desired drive.

Step 5: Start the download and creation process:

• The tool will download Windows 10 files and create the bootable USB drive. This process can take some time, depending on your internet connection speed.

Method 2: Using a Command Prompt (for experienced users)

Step 1: Download the Windows 10 ISO file:

• Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Windows 10 ISO file: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

Step 2: Mount the ISO file:

• Right-click on the downloaded ISO file and choose "Mount." This will create a virtual drive in your File Explorer.

Step 3: Open Command Prompt as administrator:

• Search for "Command Prompt" in the Windows search bar.
• Right-click on the result and choose "Run as administrator."

Step 4: Execute the following commands:

• Format the USB drive:

  diskpart
  list disk
  select disk <disk number> 
  clean
  create partition primary
  format fs=ntfs quick
  active
  assign
  exit
  

  Note: Replace <disk number> with the number of your USB drive (identified by the list disk command).
• Copy the ISO files to the USB drive:

  xcopy /e /f /h /i /k /y "<path to mounted ISO file>" "D:\"
  

  Note: Replace "" with the actual path to the mounted ISO file, and replace "D:" with the drive letter of your USB drive.

Step 5: Verify and eject the USB drive:

• After the process is complete, verify that the bootable USB drive is working.
• Eject the USB drive safely from your computer.

Important Notes:

• Back up your data: Before creating a bootable USB drive, it's crucial to back up all your important data.
• Use a dedicated USB drive: Avoid using your primary USB drive for this process.
• USB drive size: Ensure your USB drive has enough space for the Windows 10 installation files.
• Internet connection: You'll need a stable internet connection for both methods to download the necessary files.

Additional Resources:

For further assistance and troubleshooting, you can refer to these resources:

• Official Microsoft Support: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/create-installation-media-for-windows-on-another-pc-d4166c18-c40b-0df8-b2e1-a33463c14b2f
• GitHub repository for Windows 10 installation: https://github.com/microsoft/Windows-10-Build-Environment

Conclusion:

Creating a bootable USB drive for Windows 10 is a simple process that empowers you to install, repair, or upgrade your operating system. With the help of the Media Creation Tool or command prompt, you can easily create a bootable drive and ensure a smooth experience. Remember to back up your data beforehand and choose a dedicated USB drive for the process.