Step-by-Step Guide to Create a Windows 11 24H2 Installer USB for Unsupported PCs with Rufus

Key Notes

  • Bypass Windows 11 hardware requirements using Rufus.
  • Create a bootable USB directly from an existing ISO file.
  • Download the latest Windows 11 ISO directly through Rufus.

Unlocking Windows 11 24H2: DIY Bootable USB for Unsupported Systems

Creating a bootable USB drive can open the doors to installing Windows 11 24H2 even on hardware that doesn’t meet the standard requirements.

Are you eager to experience the latest features of Windows 11, but your hardware falls short of the minimum requirements? Fear not! This guide will walk you through crafting a bootable USB for Windows 11 24H2 using the Rufus tool, ensuring you can sidestep those pesky limitations. From bypassing the RAM and TPM requirements to setting up local accounts, we’ve got it covered.

Step 1: Create the Bootable USB with an Existing ISO File

Want to set up a bootable USB using an existing Windows 11 ISO? Just follow these straightforward steps:

  1. Visit the Rufus website.

  2. Click on the download link for the latest version available under the “Download” section.

  3. Double-click the downloaded file to launch Rufus.

  4. Step 4: Select the ISO File

    Click the Select button.

  5. Step 5: Choose the ISO

    Locate and select your Windows 11 24H2 ISO, then hit Open.

  6. Step 6: Default Settings

    Proceed with the default settings as they appear.

  7. Step 7: Name Your Drive

    (Optional) You can specify a name for your drive in the “Volume label” field.

  8. Step 8: Start the Process

    Hit the Start button to begin.

  9. Step 9: Check Hardware Bypass Options

    Ensure the Remove requirement for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0 option is checked.

  10. Step 10: Bypass Microsoft Account Requirement

    Enable the Remove requirement for an online Microsoft account option.

  11. Step 11: Local Account Creation

    (Optional) You can create a local account automatically by checking the Create a local account with username option and specifying a name.

  12. Step 12: Disable BitLocker

    Check the option Disable BitLocker automatic device encryption if you wish to prevent it from enabling during installation.

  13. Step 13: Confirm and Exit

    Click OK to confirm your settings.

Upon completing these steps, Rufus will craft a bootable USB that allows you to install Windows 11 24H2 on virtually any unsupported hardware.

Step 2: Creating the Bootable USB by Downloading the ISO File

If you’ve been waiting for the October update, you can download the Windows 11 24H2 ISO directly through Rufus. Follow these steps to get started:

  1. Open the Rufus website.

  2. Download the latest Rufus version as previously mentioned.

  3. Launch Rufus by double-clicking the executable file.

  4. Step 4: Open Settings

    Click on the Settings button located at the bottom.

  5. Step 5: Check for Updates

    Select the Daily option from the “Check for updates” drop-down menu.

  6. Step 6: Close Settings

    Click Close to exit the settings menu.

  7. Step 7: Reopen Rufus

    Close and reopen Rufus for the changes to take effect.

  8. Step 8: Select USB Device

    Optional: Choose the USB drive you want to use from the “Device” drop-down list.

  9. Step 9: Boot Selection

    Select Disk or ISO image as your Boot selection option.

  10. Step 10: Initiate Download Process

    Press the down-arrow button and select Download.

  11. Step 11: Choose Windows 11

    Select the Windows 11 option from the choices presented.

  12. Step 12: Confirm Release Version

    Choose the 24H2 release option for the latest update.

  13. Step 13: Install Language Selection

    Select your preferred installation language.

  14. Step 14: Select Architecture

    Choose the x64 architecture for compatibility.

  15. Step 15: Finalize Download

    Press the Download button and choose a location to save the ISO file.

  16. Step 16: Create Bootable USB

    Follow the same steps as before to create the bootable USB using the freshly downloaded ISO.

You will now have a bootable USB ready for the installation process on unsupported hardware.

Additional Tips

  • Always ensure you back up important data before proceeding with the installation.
  • Make sure your device meets at least the minimal TPM 1.2 requirement for better system stability.
  • Consider creating multiple bootable USB drives for different Windows installation scenarios.

Summary

By following the outlined steps, you’ve learned how to create a bootable USB for Windows 11 24H2 on unsupported hardware using Rufus. This process allows you to bypass installation restrictions, enabling your device to run the latest operating system.

Conclusion

Upgrading to Windows 11 24H2 has never been easier, even if your hardware falls short of the standard requirements. Thanks to the Rufus tool, you can successfully install the latest version regardless of whether your hardware meets all the essential criteria. Take the plunge, explore new features, and enjoy your enhanced computing experience!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use Rufus on a Mac to create a Windows bootable USB?

Rufus is primarily designed for Windows. However, you can use virtualization software or run Windows in a dual-boot setup on a Mac to use Rufus.

Does using this method void my PC warranty?

Generally, using third-party tools to bypass hardware requirements does not void warranties. However, always check the warranty terms from your manufacturer.