Tutorial for gamaray

Install Windows 11 to USB with Rufus

Create a bootable Windows 11 installation drive in 6 simple steps

What You Need
  • USB Drive (8GB+)
  • Rufus (free)
  • Windows 11 ISO
1
Download Rufus
Get the latest version of Rufus from the official website.
  • Go to rufus.ie
  • Download the latest portable version (no installation needed)
  • Save it somewhere easy to find
Download Rufus
2
Get Windows 11 ISO
Download the official Windows 11 disk image from Microsoft.
  • Visit microsoft.com/software-download/windows11
  • Select 'Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)'
  • Choose your language and download (approx. 5-6 GB)
Download Windows 11 ISO
3
Insert Your USB Drive
Connect your USB drive and launch Rufus.
  • Insert a USB drive (8GB minimum, 16GB recommended)
  • Back up any data on the USB - it will be erased!
  • Run Rufus (no installation required)
4
Configure Rufus Settings
Set up the correct options for Windows 11.
  • Device: Select your USB drive
  • Boot selection: Click SELECT and choose your Windows 11 ISO
  • Partition scheme: GPT
  • Target system: UEFI (non CSM)
  • File system: NTFS
  • Leave other settings as default
5
Start the Process
Begin creating your bootable USB.
  • Click START
  • If prompted, choose 'Write in ISO Image mode'
  • A dialog may appear to bypass TPM/Secure Boot - choose based on your PC
  • Wait 10-20 minutes for completion
6
Done!
Your bootable Windows 11 USB is ready.
  • Rufus will show 'READY' when complete
  • Safely eject your USB drive
  • Boot from USB to install Windows 11
Pro Tip for gamaray

If your PC doesn't meet Windows 11 requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot), Rufus can create an installation that bypasses these checks. When you click START, look for the dialog that offers to remove these requirements.