Upgrading to Windows 11 can feel overwhelming, especially with all the technical jargon around TPM, UEFI, and USB booting. I’ve been there myself, trying to make sense of it all. That’s why I’ve created this clear, experience-based guide to help you install Windows 11 from a USB without frustration or data loss. Let’s walk through it together, step by step.
Part 1: How to Prepare Your PC for Installing Windows 11 from USB
Before you plug in a USB and hit install, it’s crucial to prep your PC properly. Trust me, skipping these steps can lead to frustrating errors halfway through the process. Here’s what you need to check first.
1. Check Hardware Compatibility
Windows 11 comes with strict hardware requirements, especially around security features. Don’t worry, I’ll break it down for you:
TPM 2.0: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is required to run Windows 11.
To check and enable it:
Press Win + I → Privacy & Security → Windows Security → Device Security
Look for Security processor. If it's missing, restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2 or DEL during startup).
Navigate to Security or Advanced, and enable TPM (sometimes listed as PTT or fTPM).
UEFI Firmware: You’ll also need to ensure your system uses UEFI instead of Legacy BIOS.
In BIOS/UEFI, make sure Secure Boot is enabled and Legacy Mode is disabled.
Storage and Processor Requirements:
At least 64 GB of free space on your main drive.
A supported processor (Intel 8th Gen or AMD Ryzen 2000 series and above).
You can check your system's compatibility using Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool or this page: Windows 11 Specs.
The first time I tried installing Windows 11, I didn't realize Secure Boot was disabled. It took me a while to find the option in BIOS, so double-check yours before moving forward!
2. Backup Your Data
This step is essential. Even though installation usually goes smoothly, it’s always better to be safe.
Use external hard drives or cloud services like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox.
Back up personal documents, photos, and anything you can’t afford to lose.
Tip: If you’re upgrading from Windows 10, some files may stay in a folder called Windows.old, but I still recommend a full backup, just in case.
I used OneDrive to back up important files, and it saved me when I accidentally formatted the wrong partition (yes, it happens!).
3. Download Windows 11 ISO
Now that your PC is ready, it’s time to grab the Windows 11 installation file.
Visit the official Microsoft page: Create Windows 11 Installation Media.
Download the Media Creation Tool, or scroll down to download the ISO file directly.
Tip: If you plan to use Rufus later (to bypass TPM requirements), downloading the ISO file directly is better.
I found the Media Creation Tool simpler to use for beginners, but Rufus offers more flexibility if your PC doesn’t meet all the requirements.
Part 2: How to Create a Bootable USB Drive for Windows 11 Installation
Once your PC is ready, it’s time to create a bootable USB drive. There are two reliable tools to do this: Media Creation Tool and Rufus. I’ve used both and will walk you through each method.
Method 1: Using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool
This is Microsoft’s official way to create a bootable USB, and it’s ideal for users whose PCs meet all Windows 11 requirements.
Step 1: Download the Media Creation Tool
Visit Microsoft’s website
Click Download Now under the Create Windows 11 Installation Media section
Step 2: Run the Tool
Open the downloaded .exe file
Accept the license terms
Step 3: Create Installation Media
Choose Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC
Select your language and Windows 11 edition
Step 4: Choose USB Drive
Insert an empty USB drive (8GB or larger)
Select the USB from the list
The tool will format the USB and install the files automatically
This method is foolproof if your PC supports TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. The only downside? The process takes time; be patient during the download and USB writing steps.
Method 2: Using Rufus (Bypass TPM 2.0/CPU Requirements)
Rufus is great if your PC doesn't meet Microsoft’s strict requirements. It allows you to bypass TPM checks and still install Windows 11.
Step 1: Download Rufus
Go to rufus.ie and download the latest version.
Also, download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft if you haven’t already
Step 2: Launch Rufus and Configure Settings
Open Rufus (no installation required)
Insert your USB drive and select it under Device
Under Boot Selection, choose Disk or ISO image, then load your Windows 11 ISO.
Step 3: Customize and Start
Set Partition scheme to GPT for UEFI systems
Check the box that says Remove requirement for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0
Click Start and wait for the process to complete
Rufus has saved me on older laptops that weren’t “officially” eligible for Windows 11. It's powerful, but make sure you're using it responsibly; skip TPM checks only if you fully understand the risks.
Part 3: Step-by-Step – How to Install Windows 11 from USB with Media Creation Tool or Rufus
Once your bootable USB is ready, the actual installation process is fairly straightforward, just make sure you follow each step carefully. I’ll cover what to do if you use the Media Creation Tool or Rufus.
Step 1: Boot from USB
Plug in your bootable USB and restart your computer.
As it starts, press the BIOS/boot menu key, commonly F12, DEL, or F2 (this varies by manufacturer).
In the boot menu, choose the USB drive as the primary boot option.
Tip: If you don’t see your USB, go into BIOS and enable USB boot and/or UEFI mode.
I had to try a few different keys before finding the right one for my ASUS laptop (F2, in my case). If it doesn't work right away, look up your device's boot key.
Step 2: Begin Installation
When the Windows setup screen appears, choose your language, time format, and keyboard layout, then click Next.
Hit Install Now.
If you're reinstalling or upgrading, click “I don’t have a product key” when prompted; you can activate it later if you’re eligible.
Choose the Windows 11 edition that matches your license.
Accept the license agreement and select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) for a clean install.
On the partition screen, choose the main drive (usually the largest), and click Format if you're doing a fresh install. Then click Next.
Warning: Formatting will delete all files on that partition, so make sure you've backed up everything.
Formatting helped me avoid lingering bugs from my old OS. Just be cautious, you’ll lose everything on that drive.
Step 3: Post-Installation Setup
After installation, your PC will reboot. Keep the USB inserted unless prompted to remove it.
Set up your device: choose a region, enter your Microsoft account (or create one), and adjust privacy settings.
Windows will finalize updates and load your new desktop.
I usually disable location tracking and personalized ads during setup, and it makes things feel less intrusive. Also, plug in a LAN cable or connect to Wi-Fi right away for smoother updates.
Part 4: How to Optimize Windows 11 After Installing from USB and Save on Office Software
Now that Windows 11 is installed and running, it’s time to set it up for real productivity, and that includes saving money where it counts. Let’s make sure your system is fast, responsive, and ready for everyday work.
Avoid Expensive MS Office Subscriptions
Microsoft Office is powerful, but it’s not cheap. A single-user subscription to Microsoft 365 Personal costs around $69.99/year. If you're on a budget or just want a solid alternative, you don't need to compromise on features.
After years of using Office, I realized most of my daily tasks, editing documents, creating spreadsheets, or making presentations, could be done just as well with free alternatives. That’s when I discovered WPS Office.
WPS Office: Smart, Compatible, and Windows 11 Ready
WPS Office is a full-featured, free office suite that’s fully compatible with Windows 11. Here’s why I recommend it:
AI PDF editing: Easily edit and convert PDFs without extra software.
Cloud sync: Access your docs across devices, which is great for remote work.
Dark mode: Reduce eye strain and match your Windows 11 theme.
Touchscreen & tablet support: Works smoothly with 2-in-1 laptops and tablets.
Lightweight: Takes up less space and runs faster than Microsoft Office.
Tip: If you just installed Windows 11 and want something fast and reliable right out of the gate, WPS Office is an easy win. It opens large documents quickly and handles Excel-style functions like a champ.
I’ve used WPS Office on a mid-range laptop and never felt the need to go back to MS Office. It has a clean interface, intuitive tools, and everything I need for work and personal use.
FAQs
Q1: How do I check if my PC has TPM 2.0?
Press Win + R, type tpm.msc, and hit Enter.
A window will open showing the TPM status.
If it says TPM is ready for use, you’re good to go.
If not, restart your PC, enter the BIOS (usually by pressing DEL or F2), and look for TPM, fTPM, or PTT in the security settings.
Tip: Sometimes, the option is buried under the "Advanced" or "Security" tabs in BIOS. It took me a while to find it the first time!
Q2: My USB isn’t detected by Rufus. What should I do?
First, try reformatting the USB to FAT32 using Windows Disk Management:
Right-click Start > Disk Management
Right-click your USB > Format > Choose FAT32 > OK
If the issue persists, try using another USB port or a different flash drive.
I once used a USB that worked fine for file storage but kept failing during boot creation. Switching to a new 16GB drive fixed it instantly.
Q3: Installation stops at 24% - how do I fix this?
This is usually caused by external devices interfering with the setup.
Disconnect printers, extra monitors, external drives, or anything non-essential.
Restart the PC and try the installation again.
Tip: I had this happen with a wireless mouse receiver. As soon as I unplugged it, the installation resumed as if nothing happened.
Q4: Is WPS Office fully compatible with Windows 11?
Absolutely. WPS Office runs smoothly on Windows 11, supports dark mode and touchscreen navigation, and works perfectly with new-gen laptops and tablets.
Bonus: It’s optimized for performance and uses fewer resources than traditional office suites, which is perfect if you’ve installed Windows 11 on a slightly older device.
Summary
Installing Windows 11 from a USB doesn’t have to be complicated. By checking your hardware, backing up your data, and following one of the two proven methods, Media Creation Tool or Rufus, you can upgrade or install Windows 11 smoothly and safely.
Once installed, don’t forget to optimize your new system by choosing tools that complement performance without draining your budget. WPS Office is a perfect example, offering a free, feature-rich alternative to Microsoft Office that’s fully compatible with Windows 11.
Whether you're a student, remote worker, or everyday user, this guide gives you everything you need to make the switch with confidence and without losing your files or your mind.
