Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Windows 11 on a New PC Without an Operating System

Step 1: Modify Boot Order

Start by changing the boot order to ensure your computer recognizes the USB drive first for installation.

1. Immediately after powering on your computer, repeatedly press the F10, F2, F12, F1, or DEL keys to enter the BIOS menu.
2. Navigate to the Boot tab within the BIOS settings.
3. Set the removable drive or USB as the primary boot option and confirm by pressing the Enter key.

Pro Tip: Options may vary by manufacturer; refer to your device’s documentation for specific key combinations.

Step 2: Acquire the Windows 11 Installation Assistant

To create a bootable installation USB, proceed with downloading the Windows 11 Installation Assistant.

1. Open your internet browser and navigate to microsoft.com.
2. Locate the Windows 11 Installation Assistant section and click on “Download Now.”
3. Run the downloaded file and accept the license terms to launch the assistant. If language preferences differ, uncheck the recommended settings box and select Next.
4. Choose to create a bootable USB drive when prompted, then insert your USB drive and select the appropriate option.
5. Select the USB drive again and hit the Next button to begin downloading the necessary files.

Pro Tip: If you already have a Windows 11 ISO file, use tools like Rufus to create your bootable USB easily.

Step 3: Installing Windows 11

With your USB drive prepared, it’s time to start the actual installation process.

1. Restart your computer with the USB drive inserted and click on Install Now.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions. If prompted for a product key, select “I don’t have a product key” to continue.
3. Accept the license agreement, click Next, and choose the Custom Installation option.
4. Select your preferred region and keyboard layout. If you encounter the “Internet Connection Lost” screen, press Shift + F10 to open the Command Prompt.
5. Type OOBE\BYPASSNRO and hit Enter. This will initiate a system restart.
6. Once back at the “Let’s connect you to a network” screen, choose “I don’t have Internet” or make a connection if available and proceed.
7. Continue with the limited setup instructions and select your primary drive for Windows installation before clicking Next.

Pro Tip: Be patient during the installation; it may take some time depending on your system speed.

Step 4: Create User Account and Set Password

After the installation, it’s time to set up your user account.

1. Upon completing the installation, you’ll reach the setup screen to create a user account.
2. Enter your desired username on the “Who’s going to use this PC?” page, answer security questions, and follow the on-screen prompts.
3. Log in using the account created, and access the control options for further personalization.
4. Click on the Start menu, navigate to Settings, and head to the Accounts section.
5. Select Family & other users, choose the account, and change the account type to Administrator.
6. Confirm by clicking OK to apply those changes.

Pro Tip: Use a strong password for your account to enhance security.

Can I install Windows 11 without system requirements?

What are the minimum system requirements for Windows 11?