Download Links:
|
|
How to Install Windows 10 from a Bootable USB Drive using Rufus
Installing Windows 10 from a bootable USB drive is a straightforward process that requires only basic computer skills and some patience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a bootable USB drive with Rufus, which will allow you to install Windows 10 directly from it.
What is a Bootable USB Drive?
A bootable USB drive, also known as a bootable USB installer or ISO image, is a copy of the Windows 10 installation media (USB drive) that can be used to start your computer without a legitimate Windows 10 license key. Rufus is a free and user-friendly tool that can create such an ISO file.
Software Requirements:
- Rufus
- Windows 7 Service Pack 1 or later (for compatibility)
- A USB drive with at least 4 GB of free space
Installing Rufus on Your Computer:
- Download Rufus from the official website (rufus.me) and run it on your computer.
- Select the «USB Disk Image (.iso)» option as the file format, then choose a suitable size for the ISO file.
- Choose the drive letter of the USB drive you want to use as the installation device.
- Set the boot order to prioritize the USB drive.
- Click on «Create» to start creating the bootable USB drive.
Creating a Bootable USB Drive:
Once Rufus has created your bootable ISO file, it will be saved in the same folder where you extracted it earlier. You can verify that the file was created correctly by checking the file’s size and contents.
Installing Windows 10 from the USB Drive:
- Insert the bootable USB drive into a free USB port on your computer.
- Restart your computer immediately after insertion, this will start the boot process for the Windows 10 installation media.
- The installation wizard will begin, which may take about 30-45 minutes to complete depending on your internet speed and hardware specifications.
- Choose the language, time region, and other options as desired (optional).
- Accept the license agreement and terms of use, then select «Install Windows» to start the installation process.
- Follow the remaining prompts to complete the installation.
Post-Installation Steps:
- Once the installation is complete, restart your computer in normal mode.
- Windows 10 will install on your computer, and you can activate it with a valid license key (if needed).
- Your new operating system should now be up and running!
Tips:
- Make sure to choose the correct language and time zone for your region to avoid any issues during installation.
- You may need to enter a product key or activation code at the Windows 10 login screen.
- Keep in mind that using a bootable USB drive from an older version of Rufus might not work with newer versions due to compatibility issues.
By following these steps, you can successfully install Windows 10 from a bootable USB drive using Rufus. This method is convenient and eliminates the need for purchasing a new license key or using a different installation media.