How do I create installation media for Windows 11?

"Recovery Drive + ISO Files" This built-in method is a solid, official way to create installation media for Windows 11 without using any of the tools you've listed . Since you have a new 32GB drive, you have more than enough space for this process.

Here is the step-by-step process you would follow this weekend:

Phase 1: Download the official Windows 11 ISO.

Phase 2: Create a Bootable Recovery Drive

Connect your new 32GB USB drive to your computer. Be aware that this process will erase everything on it.

In the search box on your taskbar, type recovery and click the "Recovery Drive" shortcut from the results.

In the tool, check the box that says "Back up system files to the recovery drive." This ensures the drive can be used to reinstall Windows.

Follow the prompts to create the drive. The tool will format your USB and make it bootable for creating installation media for Windows 11.

Phase 3: Add the Installation Files

After the recovery drive is created, double-click the Windows 11 ISO file you downloaded. This will "mount" it as a virtual DVD drive in File Explorer .

Open a second File Explorer window and navigate to your new USB recovery drive.

In the Windows for the mounted ISO, press Ctrl + A to select every file and folder.

Drag and drop all these selected files into the window for your USB recovery drive. If asked to replace any files, choose "Yes" .

Once the file copy is complete, your USB drive will be a fully functional Windows 11 installation media, created using only tools that came with your PC.