What You'll Need
- A USB drive (8 GB or larger)
- A Windows 11 license key
- A PC meeting Windows 11 system requirements
- Internet connection for downloading the installation media
Step 1: Download the Media Creation Tool
Visit Microsoft's official website and download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool.
Important
Make sure to download from microsoft.com directly. Third-party download sites may bundle unwanted software.
Step 2: Create the Bootable USB
Run the Media Creation Tool
Accept the license terms and select "Create installation media for another PC".
Select Language and Edition
Choose your language, Windows 11 edition, and architecture (64-bit).
Choose USB Flash Drive
Select USB flash drive and pick your connected USB drive. All data on the drive will be erased.
Wait for Download
The tool will download Windows 11 and create the bootable USB. This takes 15–30 minutes depending on your internet speed.
Step 3: Boot from USB
- Insert the USB drive into the target PC
- Restart the PC and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually F2, F12, or Del during startup)
- Set the USB drive as the first boot device
- Save and exit BIOS
Step 4: Install Windows 11
- Select your language and region
- Click "Install Now"
- Enter your Windows 11 product key (or click "I don't have a product key" to enter it later)
- Select Windows 11 Pro or Home depending on your license
- Choose "Custom: Install Windows only" for a clean install
- Select the drive partition and click Next
- Wait for installation to complete (20–40 minutes)
Step 5: Activate Windows
After installation, go to Settings → System → Activation and enter your license key.
Pro Tip
If you purchased a digital license from Distivo, your key is available instantly in your order confirmation email and account dashboard.
