Need to reinstall Windows 11 or set it up on another PC? Microsoft's Windows 11 Media Creation Tool downloads the installation files and turns them into a bootable USB stick or an ISO file.
Choose USB media or an ISO
After launching the tool, accept the license terms and choose the option to create installation media for another PC. Select the language and architecture, then choose a USB drive or an ISO file as the destination.
For USB media, connect a blank drive with enough space; the creation process deletes its existing contents. Choosing ISO saves an image file on the computer, which can later be used to make a bootable DVD or installation media for a virtual machine.
Set the installation language and architecture
The media-creation workflow lets you choose the language and architecture for Windows 11. The tool creates x64 installation media; it does not create media for ARM-based PCs. Match the language selection to the intended installation.
Install Windows from the media
Connect the prepared USB drive to the PC where Windows will be installed, or use the ISO to create a bootable disc. Starting the PC from the media opens Windows Setup, where you can begin a new installation.
Pros
- Creates bootable USB installation media or saves an ISO file
- Lets you select the installation language and architecture
- Can prepare media for installing Windows on another PC
Cons
- Makes installation media for x64 PCs only, not for ARM-based PCs
System requirements: Windows 10, Windows 11 · 64-bit only · Internet connection · Sufficient storage for the download · Blank DVD: at least 8 GB (if creating a DVD)
Can the tool save an ISO instead of creating a USB drive?
Yes. Choose the ISO option to save a Windows 11 installation image on the computer.
Will creating a bootable USB erase its files?
Yes. The USB drive's existing contents are deleted when the tool prepares it.
Can it create installation media for an ARM-based PC?
No. The tool creates installation media for x64 processors only.