How to Run Windows 11 From a USB Without Installing

Want to modify your Windows 11 settings or try new features without risking your main system stability? You can easily do this by creating a bootable copy of your Windows 11 system on a USB drive. This “portable Windows” allows you to make any alterations or test new functionalities without affecting your computer’s main operating system. You can use a free tool like Rufus to create a USB-compatible version of Windows, called Windows To Go.

How to Use Rufus to Create a USB-compatible Version of Windows

Step 1: Go to the Rufus website – rufus.ie and download the latest version of the software.

Step 2: Run Rufus.exe.

Step 3: Insert your USB drive.

Step 4: Back up all files.

Note: Using the USB to store Windows To Go will erase all the data that is on it, so ensure you’ve backed it up first. If you can get a brand-new, that’s even better.

Create the Bootable Windows 11 USB

Once your USB has been wiped, you can use Rufus to create a copy of your Windows system, called a ‘bootable’ system.

Step 1: Launch Rufus.

Step 2: Under Device, choose your USB drive.

Step 3: Under ‘Boot selection’, choose your Windows 11 ISO file.

Step 4: In ‘Image option’, choose Windows To Go.

Step 5: Under ‘Partition scheme’, select ‘GPT.’

Step 6: Click ‘Start.’

Step 7: Choose your preferred version of Windows 11.

Boot From the USB Drive

Plug the USB into whichever device you want to run the system on. This will load the operating system from the USB, not the computer, meaning you can change what you want and simply unplug it when you’re done.

Step 1: Restart your computer.

Step 2: While it boots up, press the key for your boot menu (this varies by brand, so Google to see what it is for your computer).

Step 3: From the menu, choose to boot from your USB drive.

Step 4: Set up Windows 11.

You’ll now go through the normal steps of setting up your system, just like opening a computer for the first time. Once you complete the setup, the USB will remember your settings for as long as it stays plugged in, so you don’t have to do it every time. Your computer will run of the Windows system saved in the USB and will use those details until you change it.

Use Windows Without Changing Your Computer

Your computer should run exactly like normal when it’s set up. Anything you save to the system while you’re running it from the USB won’t carry over to your computer’s system when you unplug it. This means you can change system settings and try experimental features without worrying about causing damage to your computer’s system.