Windows Media Creator

Complexity: Easy | Time: 5 min | Tools: A USB drive with at least 8GB of storage (note: this will erase all data on the USB)., A stable internet connection., Access to a Windows PC to create the USB.

Creating a bootable USB with the Windows Media Creation Tool is a straightforward way to install or reinstall or repair Windows.

Steps to Prepare the USB

Download the Windows Media Creation Tool

• Visit the Microsoft Website: Go to the official Windows 10/11 Download page.

• Download the Tool: Click on Download Now under the "Create Windows 10/11 Installation Media" section to download the Media Creation Tool.

Prepare the USB Drive

• Plug in the USB Drive: Insert the USB drive you want to use for the installation into a USB port on your PC. Note: All data on the USB will be erased during the process, so make sure you’ve backed up anything important.

• Run the Media Creation Tool: Locate the downloaded Media Creation Tool file (usually in your Downloads folder) and double-click to run it. Accept the license agreement to continue.

Set Up the Bootable USB

• Choose the Setup Options: Select Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC and click Next.

• Select Language, Edition, and Architecture: By default, the tool will choose settings that match your current PC. If you need a different language, edition, or architecture (32-bit vs. 64-bit), uncheck the box Use the recommended options for this PC and make your selections. Click Next when ready.

• Choose USB Flash Drive: On the "Choose which media to use" screen, select USB flash drive and click Next.

• Select Your USB Drive: The tool will display available USB drives. Choose your USB drive from the list, then click Next. Note: Ensure you select the correct drive, as this process will erase all data on the selected USB.

• Download and Create the Bootable USB: The tool will now download Windows and create the bootable USB. This can take 10-20 minutes depending on your internet speed.

Complete the Process

• Finish and Remove the USB: Once the tool completes, you’ll see a message saying, “Your USB flash drive is ready.” Click Finish to close the tool.

• Safely eject the USB drive from your PC.

Using the Bootable USB for Installation

• Insert the USB into the PC to be Reinstalled: Plug the bootable USB into the PC where you want to install Windows.

• Access the Boot Menu: Power on the PC, and immediately start pressing the boot key (usually F12, F11, or Esc, depending on your motherboard) to access the Boot Menu.

• Select USB as Boot Device: Choose your USB drive from the boot options, then press Enter to boot from the USB.

• Begin Windows Installation: Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows on your PC. You’ll be guided through selecting language, time, and partition options for a clean installation.

What's Next

With your bootable USB created, you’re ready for a clean Windows installation! Follow the below guide for further steps:

• Windows 11 Reinstallation (Intermediate)

If you need further assistance or have any questions, feel free to reach out for additional support - we're always happy to help!