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A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Windows 11 from an ISO File Using Rufus
Are you ready to upgrade your computer to the latest version of Windows? With the installation process becoming increasingly seamless, using a tool like Rufus is no longer necessary. However, for those who prefer the traditional method or have specific requirements (like dual-booting), installing Windows 11 from an ISO file can be a viable option. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of installing Windows 11 from an ISO file using Rufus.
Preparation is Key
Before proceeding, make sure you have:
- A valid copy of Windows 10 or Windows Server 2016/2019 (if you plan to install on a server).
- The necessary drivers for your hardware components.
- A blank USB drive with at least 4 GB of free space.
Understanding Rufus
Rufus is a free, open-source tool used to create and manage bootable drives. It allows you to easily transfer files between computers by creating a bootable media, in this case, an ISO file. The tool uses the Windows Built-in Driver ESD Utility (in Beta) which works with the latest version of Rufus.
Installing Rufus
If you haven’t installed Rufus on your computer yet:
- Download and install Rufus from its official website.
- Once installed, make sure you have the latest drivers for your system.
Creating an ISO File
Using your preferred method to create a bootable USB drive (we recommend using Windows 10’s built-in tool or the Command Prompt), navigate to the directory where your ISO file is saved and run the following command:
rufus --create-iso
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Starting the Installation
Once you’ve created an ISO file using Rufus, follow these steps to install Windows 11:
- Insert your blank USB drive.
- Restart your computer and immediately start the boot process from the USB drive.
- The installation window will appear, allowing you to select your language, time zone, and other options.
- Select “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” and choose a destination partition for your new operating system (we recommend leaving the default option).
- Confirm that you want to install Windows 11 on this drive.
Post-Installation
After completing the installation process:
- Restart your computer and enter the BIOS settings.
- Set the USB drive as the first boot device.
- Save changes and exit the BIOS settings.
- Your newly installed Windows 11 system should now be up and running.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If you encounter any issues during the installation process, ensure that your USB drive is properly connected to your computer and that Rufus has been installed correctly on your system.
- If you’re encountering an error message stating “The file was not found,” make sure the ISO file path in Rufus is correct and try again.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully install Windows 11 from an ISO file using Rufus. Remember to always exercise caution when creating bootable media, as it can potentially cause system damage if used incorrectly.