This guide explains how to install Windows 11 from a USB on a Windows 10 computer. It covers requirements, compatibility checks, and clear upgrade steps for a smooth installation.
If you are using Windows 10, you can upgrade to Windows 11 as long as your PC meets the minimum system requirements. Microsoft has relaxed some hardware limits, especially for certain Intel processors, but you still need to make sure your device matches the basic Windows 11 standards. These requirements are higher than Windows 10 because Windows 11 offers stronger security, better performance, and improved support for modern apps and features.
Windows 11 minimum requirements
• CPU: 64-bit processor with two or more cores at 1 GHz or faster (Intel 8th-gen+, AMD Ryzen 2000+, selected Qualcomm chips)
• RAM: 4 GB or more
• Storage: 64 GB or more
• System firmware: UEFI with Secure Boot
• Graphics: DirectX 12 compatible GPU with WDDM 2.0 driver
• TPM: TPM 2.0
• Display: 720p or higher, at least 9 inches
• Internet: Needed for updates and Microsoft account setup for Windows 11 Home
If your Windows 10 device does not meet these requirements, upgrading directly may cause problems. Unsupported hardware can lead to crashes, security risks, and compatibility issues, which is why Microsoft recommends meeting the minimum requirements before installing Windows 11. If not, you can also try to bypass the Windows 11 requirements.
However, you can still enjoy Windows 11 even if your PC is not compatible. One simple option is to create a Windows 11 To Go USB. This portable USB lets you run Windows 11 directly from the drive without installing it on your computer. It allows you to try the system, avoid hardware limits, fix system issues, and use Windows 11 on different devices more easily.
In the next part, we will show you how to create a Windows 11 To Go USB step by step. You can keep reading and follow the guide.
There are 2 main methods to create a Windows 11 bootable USB. If you are comfortable with advanced computer steps, you can use Command Prompt to make one yourself. However, the second method is recommended for most users because it is easier, faster, and safer. It also helps you avoid the risk of losing data during the process.
Apart from the knack of command lines, using Command Prompt to make Windows 11 boot USB also requires your patience of the long process. After creation, you can use it to install the Windows 11 system.
Step 1. Go to the Microsoft official website to download Windows 11 ISO files.
Step 2. After download, click the “Start” button on the desk top and search for “Command Prompt”. Right-click the best match, and choose “Run as Administrator”.
Step 3. Type “diskpart” and press Enter. Then type commands in turn to wipe the data on your USB drive. Please press the "Enter” key after typing every order.
Step 4. Then input the following order to create a primary partition
Step 5. Type “exit” and hit “Enter” to quit the tool.
Step 6. Now, we need to continue to open CMD again and type specific command lines to move ISO files to USB.
Now, you have already successfully created a Windows 11 boot USB.
Using Command Prompt to make a bootable USB is helpful for users who want a clean Windows installation or need to fix boot problems. However, many people still hesitate to upgrade, especially when their devices do not meet the Windows 11 hardware requirements. Some users also worry about getting used to the new system but still want to try the Windows 11 experience.
These concerns can be easily solved with AOMEI Partition Assistant. This tool lets you create a portable Windows 11 environment without needing compatible hardware. You also do not need to go through the full installation steps like you would with Command Prompt. With its Windows To Go Creator feature, you can boot directly from the Windows 11 USB and enjoy a personalized system anywhere and at any time.
The software supports creating bootable USB drives for Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, and 7, and works with all Windows editions. It can even help you make a Windows 11 boot USB for both regular PCs and Mac computers.
The Best Windows Disk Partition Manager and PC Optimizer
Step 1. Insert the USB drive into a USB 3.0 port on the computer. Wait for it to be detected. If it failed, you can read the article for help.
Step 2. Run the software. Click “All tools” > “Windows To Go Creator”.
Step 3. Click “Create Windows To Go for personal computer” > “Next”. You can click the second option “Create Windows To Go for Mac computer” if you are a Mac user.
Step 4. Click “Create Windows To Go with system disc/ISO”. Usually, the ISO file will be automatically detected. If not, please select the folder icon to manually click the target file with pressing “Next”.
Step 5. Select the USB drive as target and click “Proceed”.
Step 6. There will be a notice that all data on the USB will be erased. Select “Yes” and unplug the US. Try to boot it on another computer.
Step 1. Insert the created boot USB into your computer. Then boot the device and press the specific key to enter BIOS to change the boot order.
Step 2. Choose USB Device and press the “Enter” key to boot from the Windows 11 bootable USB.
Can you get Windows 11 if you have Win 10? You can upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10 if your PC meets the system requirements, but even if it does not, you can still try Windows 11 using a portable USB. Creating a Windows 11 bootable USB with Command Prompt or a tool like AOMEI Partition Assistant allows you to run the system, explore its features, and use it on different devices without fully installing it. This makes it easy to experience Windows 11 safely and conveniently.
The Best Windows Disk Partition Manager and PC Optimizer