A flash drive needs to be bootable in order to install an operating system, such as Windows 10 to a new computer. But doing so normally needs some third-party software to get the installation files stored in a flash drive, and make it bootable from BIOS.
Thankfully, Microsoft has stepped on the process by introducing Media Creation Tool — a tool that lets you create a bootable flash drive, especially for Windows 10 without involving other third-party software. The process is extremely easy and straightforward, just like installing a new program.
See how to create bootable Windows 10 on a USB flash drive using Media Creation Tool.
1. Prepare an empty flash drive (formatted) with at least 8 GB of capacity. Plug it to your computer.
2. Now, download Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.
3. Launch the setup.
4. Read the agreement and hit Accept.
5. Select Create installation media, then click Next.
6. Select the Windows 10 edition you want to put to the flash drive. Then click Next.
7. Choose USB flash drive as the media to use, then click Next.
8. Select the flash drive. Click Next again.
9. The program will download operating system files. Wait for it to finish.
10. Once done, you can click Finish.
11. Finally, Eject the flash drive and it will be ready to use to install Windows 10.
Media Creation Tool is not providing the latest Windows 10 version, but rather just the basic features that let the system running. It still needs to be updated and the latest driver software has to be installed afterward to ensure every component can work together.
It also won’t include a valid license. Therefore, you need to activate it by entering a new license in order to unlock all Windows 10 features and services.
Table of Contents
Additional Tips for a Smooth Installation
Prepare for Driver Updates
After installing Windows 10, updating drivers is essential to ensure your hardware components work seamlessly. Visit the manufacturer’s website for your device or use tools like Driver Booster to simplify the process.
Check for Windows Updates
Once the installation is complete, connect to the internet and run Windows Update. This ensures your system gets the latest security patches and feature enhancements.
Keep a Backup of Your Data
Before proceeding with any installation, always back up your important files. You can use external drives or cloud services like OneDrive or Google Drive for added safety.
FAQ
What happens if my USB drive isn’t detected?
Ensure the flash drive is properly inserted and formatted. If it still doesn’t appear, try using another USB port or restarting your computer.
Can I use the Media Creation Tool on macOS or Linux?
No, the Media Creation Tool is only compatible with Windows. On macOS or Linux, you can create bootable USBs using tools like Rufus or BalenaEtcher.
What if I don’t have a product key?
You can skip entering a product key during installation. However, you’ll need to activate Windows later to access all features.
How long does it take to create a bootable USB?
The time depends on your internet speed and USB drive performance. Typically, it takes 20-30 minutes.
Can I use the same USB drive for multiple installations?
Yes, as long as you don’t delete or overwrite the installation files on the USB drive.
For more detailed troubleshooting tips, refer to Microsoft’s official guide.
