How to Perform a Clean Installation of Windows 11 Using a USB Stick

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This guide provides a step-by-step process to install Windows 11 using a bootable USB stick. Follow each step carefully for a successful installation. Note: Before starting, create a backup of all important files, as the installation process will erase the selected drive.

Step 1: Download the Windows 11 ISO

  1. Go to the official Microsoft Windows 11 download page.
  2. Select "Windows 11 (Multi-Edition ISO for x64 Devices)."
  3. Click on "Download now".
  4. Choose your preferred language and click "Confirm".
  5. Click "64-Bit Download" to download the ISO file.
  6. To verify the file integrity, open PowerShell and use the following command: Get-FileHash C:\path\to\your\file.iso

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB
Stick with Rufus

  1. Download Rufus from its official website.
  2. Run the Rufus executable (no installation required).
  3. Insert a USB stick (at least 8GB).
  4. Select your USB device under "Device."
  5. In the "Boot selection" field, click "Select" and choose the Windows 11 ISO file.
  6. Set the following options:
    • Partition scheme: GPT
    • File system: NTFS
  7. Click "Start" and wait for the process to complete.

Step 3: Boot from USB

  1. Restart your computer and insert the USB stick.
  2. Press the designated BIOS/UEFI key repeatedly as your computer starts. Common keys include:
    • F2
    • DEL
    • ESC
    • F12
  3. In the BIOS, set the USB stick as the primary boot device.
  4. If you don't know how, here is a video YouTube - PC Users, YouTube - Laptop Users.
  5. Save and exit the BIOS.


Step 4: Install Windows 11

  1. Follow the on-screen instructions to begin installation.
  2. Choose "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)" if you want a clean installation. Depending on your system, this option might appear as "Erase everything and install" or similar.
  3. Select the drive where Windows will be installed. It is recommended to format this drive before proceeding:
    • Click on the drive and select "Format."
    • Ensure you are formatting the correct drive (usually the one with the current Windows installation).
  4. Click "Next". All data on this drive will be erased.
  5. Wait for the installation to complete. Your system will restart several times.

You have now successfully installed Windows 11. Enjoy your new system!

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