Forum Discussion
Help! How can I install Windows 11 using a USB drive without losing data?
I recently installed Windows 11 on an old laptop using a bootable USB created with UUBYT ISO editor. During setup, I chose the option to "Keep files," which safely retained my data. Just double-check your selections and back up important files as a precaution.
I followed this guide:
https://www.appleinsidez.com/install-windows-11-from-usb
Once the Windows 11 bootable USB is ready, insert it into the computer where you want to install Windows 11. Restart the PC and access the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing a key like F2, F12, or Del during boot). In the BIOS, change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive as the first boot device.
Save the settings and reboot the PC. The computer should boot from the USB drive, and the Windows 11 installation process will begin. Follow the on-screen instructions, such as selecting the language, region, and keyboard layout, before clicking "Install Now."
Finally, choose the partition where you want to install Windows 11 from USB drive without losing data. If needed, you can delete existing partitions to create new ones. After this, the installation will proceed, and your PC will reboot several times. Once complete, you'll be prompted to set up your preferences and sign in with your Microsoft account.
Hello thanks for your reply, however when I am trying to install, part of the installation process is the system restarting automatically. When it does this, my system boots to the USB drive again and restarts the installation process entirely. Am I supposed to change my BIOS boot order after the setup restart takes place?
The answer, it turns out, is yes. remove usb or change boot order after that first reboot.