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How can I create a bootable usb of windows 11 and use it?

Anonymous
2023-06-27T14:12:29+00:00

So I've deleted an important system file and making a bootable drive of windows 11 will fix it. How can I make one and how can I use it to reinstall a new copy of windows 11. I have a product key active currently aswell when I use the bootable drive will the product key disappear?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Recovery and backup

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  1. DaveM121 871.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2023-06-27T14:45:54+00:00

    Hi Kris_531,

    I am Dave, I will help you with this.

    1

    On another working PC, click this link:

    https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-downlo...

    to download the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB on a blank 8GB USB flash drive.

    Then, Boot your PC from the Installation Media you just created (change Boot Order in your BIOS) to begin installing Windows 11.

    2

    Activation depends on your type of Windows license.

    A

    If Windows came pre-installed on your PC, then you have an OEM licence stored on the motherboard and you have no need to worry, you can re-install Windows any time you need to and it will automatically activate.

    B

    If you purchased a retail Windows licence separately to your PC from Microsoft, then if you re-install windows and log into your Microsoft Account, it will activate automatically

    C

    If you purchased a retail Windows licence separately to your PC from a 3rd party retailer, you will need to have your product key available to re-activate Windows.

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  1. Anonymous
    2024-01-08T00:52:23+00:00

    Hi, do you know if I can create the install media using a Chromebook.

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  2. DaveM121 (2) 13,620 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2023-06-27T16:12:24+00:00

    Yes, if you have room on your OneDrive, you can store your files on OneDrive online for safe keeping.

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  3. DaveM121 871.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2023-06-27T15:46:38+00:00

    Yes, then you boot your PC form the USB you have created, then clean install Windows from the USB, you will then need to re-install all your software after doing that.

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  4. DaveM121 871.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2023-06-27T15:35:24+00:00

    To restore that Crypto folder you will need to backup your personal files and clean install Windows from a bootable USB, an in-place repair or Windows reset will not restore that folder.

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