To boot Windows 11 from a USB drive, you need to configure your computer's BIOS to prioritize booting from the USB device. Here's how:
- Create a bootable USB drive: You'll need a USB drive with at least 8GB of storage. Download the Windows 11 ISO file from the official Microsoft website and use a tool like Rufus or the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive.
- Restart your computer: Once the USB drive is created, restart your computer.
- Enter BIOS setup: During the boot process, press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS setup menu. This key is usually F2, F12, Delete, or Esc, but it can vary depending on your computer's manufacturer.
- Change boot order: Navigate to the Boot or Boot Order section in the BIOS setup. Look for the option to change the boot order and move the USB drive to the top of the list. This means your computer will try to boot from the USB drive before the hard drive.
- Save and exit: Once you've changed the boot order, save the changes and exit the BIOS setup. Your computer should now boot from the USB drive and start the Windows 11 installation process.
Important Notes:
- Make sure your USB drive is properly connected to your computer before restarting.
- If you don't see the option to change the boot order in the BIOS, consult your computer's manual or search online for specific instructions.
- You may need to disable Secure Boot in the BIOS if you encounter any issues during the installation process.
Example:
Let's say you're using a Dell laptop. During the boot process, you press F12 to enter the BIOS setup. In the BIOS menu, you navigate to the Boot section and select Boot Order. You then move the USB drive to the top of the list, save the changes, and exit the BIOS. Your laptop should now boot from the USB drive.
Remember: The specific steps to boot from a USB drive may vary depending on your computer's brand and model. Always refer to your computer's documentation or manufacturer's website for detailed instructions.
