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Cody-Hutson's avatar
Cody-Hutson
Iron Contributor
Jan 16, 2025

How to create a portable Windows 11 USB drive

I plan to create a USB drive that can either install Windows 11 on various computers or function as a portable OS (similar to Windows To Go). And I have a high-capacity USB drive (128 GB) to ensure t...
Yarisyoyo's avatar
Yarisyoyo
Bronze Contributor
Jan 16, 2025

Please don't waste on trying the built-in Windows To Go feature as it does not allow creating Windows 11 portable USB drive anymore.

Microsoft officially deprecated Windows To Go starting with Windows 10, signaling the end of its development and support. The decision to discontinue Windows To Go was influenced by several factors, including the evolving landscape of mobile and cloud computing, which offered more flexible and scalable solutions for remote work and device management.

Additionally, advancements in virtualization technologies and the increasing prevalence of lightweight, high-speed external storage options reduced the demand for a dedicated portable OS solution like Windows To Go. As a result, Microsoft shifted its focus towards enhancing cloud-based services and modern management tools that better align with contemporary IT infrastructure needs.

In short, you have to use use 3rd-party apps to let you create a portable Windows 11 USB drive in 2025!

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