How Can I make Windows 10 bootable USB for reinstall in 2025?

If you don’t format it properly before creating Windows 10 bootable USB, you might run into problems. It needs to be FAT32 or NTFS, depending on the size of your ISO. I learned this the hard way when my USB wouldn’t boot because it was still in the exFAT format. If you don’t format it properly before creating the bootable drive, you might run into problems. It needs to be FAT32 or NTFS, depending on the size of your ISO. I learned this the hard way when my USB wouldn’t boot because it was still in the exFAT format.

If you don’t format it properly before creating the bootable drive, you might run into problems. It needs to be FAT32 or NTFS, depending on the size of your ISO. I learned this the hard way when my USB wouldn’t boot because it was still in the exFAT format. If your ISO file is corrupted or incomplete, the bootable USB will not work properly. Verify that your ISO file is complete and from a reputable source before beginning the process. I once downloaded an ISO that just didn’t ‘take’ because my internet dropped mid-download. Super frustrating!

Once your USB is made, ensure your computer is set to boot from USB in the BIOS/UEFI settings. If you forget this step, you're gonna sit there waiting for something to happen while your computer boots right into Windows like nothing’s wrong. It's easy to overlook, but double-check those settings! Once you’re done creating the bootable USB, make sure to safely eject it. This can prevent file corruption or issues when you go to use it later. I’ve had a couple of USBs go haywire because I just yanked them out before they were ready.