Step-by-Step Guide to Create Bootable Windows 11 24H2 USB Installation Media
Key Notes
- Multiple methods exist for creating bootable USB media for Windows 11 24H2.
- Ensure the USB flash drive has at least 8GB of free space.
- Data on the USB drive will be erased during the process, so back up before proceeding.
Effortlessly Create Your Windows 11 24H2 Bootable USB Media
Installing Windows 11 24H2 requires the creation of a bootable USB drive, and this guide will help you do it using several reliable methods, ensuring a smooth setup.
Creating Windows 11 24H2 Bootable USB Using Rufus
To make a bootable USB for installing Windows 11 24H2 with Rufus, follow these instructions:
Step 1: Download and Launch Rufus
Visit the Rufus website and download the latest version of the software.
Step 2: Configure Rufus Settings
Launch the application and access the Settings menu; under the Check for updates dropdown, choose Daily.
Step 3: Select Your USB Drive
Select your USB flash drive in the Device section.
Step 4: Choose ISO Image
From the Boot selection dropdown, select Disk or ISO image, and click the download icon to get the Windows 11 ISO.
Step 5: Configure Windows 11 Settings
Follow prompts to select the 24H2 release, choose edition, and confirm language and architecture, then click Download.
Step 6: Start Creating Bootable Media
Finalise your selections, click Start, and confirm settings related to user experience; this will erase all data on the drive.
After completing these steps, the tool will generate your bootable USB with Windows 11 24H2 installation files.
Creating Windows 11 24H2 Bootable USB Using Ventoy
Follow the steps below to utilize Ventoy for creating your bootable USB:
Step 1: Download Ventoy
Download the latest zip file from the Ventoy releases.
Step 2: Extract Ventoy
Extract the zip file to a location of your choice using File Explorer.
Step 3: Install Ventoy
Run Ventoy2Disk.exe, select your USB device, and click Install. Confirm the action.
Step 4: Copy ISO File
Open the Ventoy drive and drag your Windows 11 24H2 ISO file into it.
After these steps, your USB is ready to boot with the Windows 11 24H2 ISO using Ventoy.
Creating Windows 11 24H2 Bootable USB Using Command Prompt
To create a bootable USB with Command Prompt, follow these detailed instructions:
Step 1: Access ISO File
Download the Windows 11 peer-to-peer ISO file from the Microsoft Support page.
Step 2: Run Command Prompt
Open Command Prompt as an administrator from the Start menu.
Step 3: Utilize Diskpart
Type diskpart to launch Diskpart, followed by list disk to identify your USB drive.
Step 4: Prepare the USB Drive
Execute commands to clean, create a partition, and format it (${code}clean , create partition primary, format FS=FAT32 quick, assign letter=X ), replacing X with your designated letter.
Step 5: Copy Installation Files
Mount the ISO and copy its contents to the USB drive using xcopy E:*.* X: /E /F /H (replace E and X with the correct drive letters).
After executing these steps, your USB drive will be prepared to install Windows 11 24H2.
Creating Windows 11 24H2 Bootable USB Using Media Creation Tool
Here’s how to create a bootable USB using the Media Creation Tool:
Step 1: Access Media Creation Tool
Download the tool from the Microsoft website.
Step 2: Launch the Tool
Open the downloaded file to start the Media Creation Tool.
Step 3: Setup Your USB Drive
Choose the USB flash drive option when prompted and select your device to begin.
Step 4: Finish the Configuration
Click Finish once setup is complete, and your bootable USB will be ready for installation.
You can now utilize this USB drive to initiate the installation of Windows 11 24H2 on your system.
Additional Tips
- Always verify that your USB is empty or contains no important files as this process will erase its content.
- For best performance, consider using a USB 3.0 drive for faster data transfer rates.
- Keep your Windows 11 24H2 ISO file handy for future installations or upgrades.
Summary
This guide has detailed multiple methods to create a bootable USB for Windows 11 24H2, including using Rufus, Ventoy, Command Prompt, and the Media Creation Tool. Each method suits different user preferences and technical abilities, ensuring that you can efficiently prepare for your Windows installation.
Conclusion
Whether you are upgrading or performing a clean installation, creating a bootable USB is a crucial step. Choose the method that suits your comfort level, and follow the outlined steps carefully for a successful installation of Windows 11 24H2.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is Windows 11 24H2?
Windows 11 24H2 is the February 2024 update for Windows 11 that includes new features and improvements for users.
Can I use an old USB drive?
Yes, but ensure it has at least 8GB of available space for the Windows installation files.