Today, Windows is generally preinstalled on a system partition of a matching PC or laptop. These files used to be found on a CD- or DVD-ROM, which came with a new computer or could be acquired separately.

An ISO file for the desired operating system that contains all setup files that you need for installation.

If the drive is already being used, make sure that it doesn’t contain any important or indispensable data. To obtain a high working speed (or enable the creation of a portable operating system), the selected drive should support the standard USB 3.0.

A USB drive with at least 4GB of storage (for a 32-bit operating system) or at least 8GB (for a 64-bit system).

The Windows utility program DiskPart or an external tool with the same functions.

Regardless of which option you choose, you always need the following things: The first option seems a bit complicated at first glance, and because of the various manual steps is slightly more error-prone, but it’s still doable even if you’re not an expert. There are basically two possible methods: either manually or using automated tools.

Use a “portal operating system” on a foreign computerĪ bootable USB drive can of course be created on a different computer than the one you want to use it on later.

“Clean” reinstallation of the operating system.

Upgrade an old operating system to Windows 10.

Use a recovery system to repair your PC.

Here are all possible uses for a bootable USB drive: A portable operating system also offers more security in case a keylogger on a foreign computer stores your passwords or your computer is infected with a virus. This way, you can not only navigate in your familiar work environment but also access all your important documents via the cloud. With this, you can use your preferred Windows version with all your favorite tools and personal data on foreign computers without having to fuss with the operating system already installed (regardless of whether it’s Windows or something else).

The drive also serves as a “clean” reinstallation of the operating system if it’s become too slow as a result of accumulated garbage.Įxperienced computer experts and IT professionals also like to use a bootable USB as a “ portable operating system” (the concept is known as “Windows2Go” for Microsoft).

You can also use a bootable USB to upgrade Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10 if a previously automatic upgrade doesn’t function correctly. Even if no such PC emergency is present, it’s a good idea to have a Windows image for data backup on a USB-capable storage medium (could also be an external hard drive) on hand.

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