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Surface Pro 8 - Unable to boot into USB to reinstall OS

Anonymous
2025-05-30T14:23:47+00:00

Hi,

I have read numerous articles, support pages, etc.. etc.. etc...

I have a Surface Pro 8 (and some other surface laptops) that we need to re-install. I have done this for Lenovos, etc.. and it works like a charm.

I have downloaded the Surface IT tool, followed all the instructions to create a bootable USB. I have also downloaded and created using the recovery tool on my own computer, downloading the correct zip file based on SN.

I have a 64 GB USB, but since I have already tried using the Toolkit, it seems to have created the necessary 32GB FAT32 partition. If I view the USB in disk management it has two partitions. one 32GB and one un-allocated one. According to my understanding that should meet the criteria of USB stick no more than 32 GBs. OR ....?

Whatever I do, go into boot menu and set USB first or just use volume down when starting. I never get past the "Choose language" then keyboard, and in the end selecting "use a device" and USB. once that is done. windows logo appears, and the turning circle. Then at a fraction of a second something like a cmd window flashes on the screen and I am back again to "Choose language".

I have even turned off secure boot option, since I read that could be an issue. I am now at a point where I have no clue what is the next step. There is no alternative solutions for me, since I will not manage to log in to windows and do anything. It drives me mad, I need help, pleaaaase!

H

Surface | Surface Pro | Install and update

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  1. Anonymous
    2025-06-18T03:52:54+00:00

    Hello,

    Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

    It sounds like your operation is correct. The problem may be that your USB drive has two partitions. I recommend merging the two partitions in Disk Management.

    If the issue persists, follow the steps in the link to recreate the recovery drive (if you have another USB drive, it is recommended to use a different one for creation).

    Creating and using a USB recovery drive for Surface - Microsoft Support

    Best regards,

    Huy-K | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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