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I downloaded a windows iso file from Chromebook onto USB. Is it bootable? Can I install windows on the infected PCs with it?

Anonymous
2023-10-12T23:46:21+00:00

I have a possibly infected windows computer and I also have a Google Chromebook. I wanted to make a bootable USB with Windows Media Creator, but on the Chromebook, you can't do that, all you can get is an ISO file onto the USB. So, I downloaded a windows ISO file from my Chromebook onto my USB from the Microsoft site.

Before I use that USB to reinstall windows on my infected PC, I have questions.

  1. Is the USB that I created with the download link bootable? It should be. I should not rely on BIOS on an infected PC.
  2. Can I install windows on the infected PCs with it?
  3. If I can install windows, can I retain the data files (not the program files) that are already there?

Thanks.

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Install and upgrade

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  1. Rodrigo Queiroz 77,500 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2023-10-13T00:32:34+00:00

    Hi,

    I'm Rodrigo and I'll help you.

    1 - To create a bootable USB drive on a Chromebook to use on other devices, you must use the Chromebook Recovery Utility

    https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/chrom...

    Rename the Windows ISO from .iso to .bin , open the Chromebook Recovery Utility, select the cog icon on the top right corner > Use local image > Select the .bin file you renamed > Select the USB drive > Create now. (All the files on the USB drive will be deleted)

    2 - Yes, you can install Windows on infected PCs.

    3 - Installing using the USB drive, you must wipe the system partition (C:), if the files are in the C: you will not be able to save them, you will need another way to backup the files. If the files are on another partition, they will not be affected.

    Standard Disclaimer: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

    10+ people found this answer helpful.
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