If you want to perform a reinstall or clean install of Windows 11 on a new or used PC, use this option to download the media creation tool to make a bootable USB or DVD. To get started you first need a license to install Windows 11 or have a Windows 10 device that qualifies for an upgrade to Windows 11.

Can I use the Media Creation Tool to upgrade my PC without losing files or apps?

Yes. When you run the Media Creation Tool on a compatible Windows 10 PC and choose the upgrade option, it keeps your personal files, installed applications, and most settings intact.

Does the Media Creation Tool bypass Windows 11 hardware requirements?

No, not by default. The tool checks for TPM, Secure Boot, and supported CPUs before allowing an upgrade. However, when creating installation media (USB or ISO), some users find they can install Windows 11 on unsupported systems during setup, though Microsoft does not recommend this and future updates may be restricted.

Can I use the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB for another PC?

Yes. One of its main purposes is creating installation media for multiple systems. You can generate a bootable USB or ISO that works across different PCs, as long as you select the correct language and edition. The installer automatically detects whether it should install Home or Pro based on the license tied to the target system.

Why does Windows activate automatically after installing with the Media Creation Tool?

Activation is tied to a digital license associated with your Microsoft account or your PC's hardware. Once Windows 11 is installed and the system goes online, Microsoft's activation servers recognize the device and reactivate it automatically, even if you performed a clean install using a USB created with the tool.

Make sure you have:

  • An internet connection
  • Sufficient data storage available on the computer, USB, or external drive you are downloading the .iso file to.
  • A blank DVD disc to create a bootable disc. We recommend using a blank USB or blank DVD, because any content on it will be deleted during installation.
  • If you receive a "disc image file is too large" message while attempting to burn a DVD bootable disc from an ISO file, consider using a higher capacity Dual Layer DVD.

Ensure the PC you want to install Windows 11:

  • Has a 64-bit CPU: Windows 11 can only run on 64-bit CPUs. To see if your PC has one, go to Settings > System > About, or search "System Information" in Windows and look under "System Type."
  • Meets system requirements: Not all devices running Windows 10 are eligible to receive a Windows 11 upgrade. See the Windows 11 device specifications for upgrade requirements and supported features. Certain features require additional hardware. We also recommend that you visit your PC's manufacturer website for information about updated drivers and hardware compatibility.
  • Matches your current language: You'll need to choose the same language when you install Windows 11. To see what language you're currently using, go to Time & language in PC settings or Region in Control Panel.

Using the Media Creation Tool to create installation media:

  • After downloading, run the media creation tool. You need to be an administrator to run this tool.
  • If you agree to the license terms, select Accept.
  • On the What do you want to do? page, select Create installation media for another PC, and then select Next.
  • Select the language, edition, and architecture (64-bit) for Windows 11.
  • Select which media you want to use:
    • USB flash drive: Attach a blank USB flash drive with at least 8GB of space. Any content on the flash drive will be deleted.
    • ISO file: Save an ISO file to your PC. This can be used to create a bootable DVD. After the file is downloaded, you can go to location where the file is saved, or select Open DVD burner, and follow the instructions to burn the file to a DVD.

After the installation media is created, follow the steps below to use it.

  • To check for updates now, select the Start button, and then go to Settings > Windows Update, and select Check for updates. You may also wish to visit your device manufacturer's support site for any additional drivers that may be needed.

Before you install Windows 11, it's a good idea to save any work and back up your PC before you start. If you used the Media Creation Tool to download an ISO file for Windows 11, remember to burn it to a DVD before following these steps:

  • Attach the USB flash drive or insert the DVD on the PC where you want to install Windows 11.
  • Restart your PC.
    • If your PC does not automatically boot to the USB or DVD media, you might have to open a boot menu or change the boot order in your PC's BIOS or UEFI settings.
    • To open a boot menu or change the boot order, you'll typically need to press a key (such as F2, F12, Delete, or Esc) immediately after you turn on your PC. For instructions on accessing the boot menu or changing the boot order for your PC, check the documentation that came with your PC or go to the manufacturer's website.
    • If you do not see the USB or DVD media device listed within the boot options, you may need to reach out to the PC manufacturer for instructions for temporarily disabling Secure Boot in your BIOS settings.
    • If changing the boot menu or order doesn't work, and your PC immediately boots into the OS you want to replace, it is possible the PC had not fully shut down. To ensure the PC fully shuts down, select the power button on the sign-in screen or on the Start menu and select Shut down.
  • On the Install Windows page, select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, and then select Next.
  • Select Install Windows.