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unable to boot computer after SSD changeout, tried to download copy of windows 11 but was stopped after 2 tries

Tom McManus 20 Reputation points
2026-03-29T00:30:06.64+00:00

made a copy of Windows 11 2x but was informed that I had the incorrect format on the USB drive had NTFS when it should have been ex-fat, anyway I corrected the format on the USB drive and went into the Microsoft Windows 11 ISO and it keeps saying error, I need to copy Windows 11 ISO to get my other computer working. Please help me with this update,

Thanks

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Recovery and backup
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  1. Tom McManus 20 Reputation points
    2026-04-11T13:41:48.2766667+00:00

    I have resolved the ssd issue when the geek squad installed a boot program on the ssd, the thing is I lost multiple files (excel, word, notepad, pdf) but retained some from the clone. I tried to use a NVMe to usb adapter with the ssd I replaced but still show a d: drive designation which still indicates the files can't be found.

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  1. Carl-L 13,985 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-04-10T06:35:42.4866667+00:00

    Hello Tom McManus,

    Thanks for replying.

    Before we proceed, may I have a photo of the issue to check for you? Please remember to remove all personal information before posting.

    Additionally, may I know if you can access the file using the OneDrive web? Also, if you can tell what the geek squad has done to boot up your computer, that'd be great.

    I'm waiting for your reply.

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  2. VARADHARAJAN K 9,681 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2026-04-06T18:14:44.01+00:00

    @Tom McManus

    use rufus software to create windows bootable pendrive using downloaded windows 11 iso

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  3. John DeV 163.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-03-29T01:08:09.39+00:00

    Hi, good day!

    • What specific error are you getting?
    • Are you trying to perform a Clean Installation of Windows using a USB flash drive?

    If so, you will need to find another working Windows computer from a family member or friend near you to create the Windows 11 USB Installation media.

    Find another working computer then download the Media Creation tool (Click Download tool now). Use the tool to "Create installation media (USB flash drive at least 8GB in size) to install Windows 11". Instructions inside the link.

    Note: Please make sure to uncheck the "Use the recommended options for this PC" box. Please check the link below for more details.

    https://support.microsoft.com/windows/create-installation-media-for-windows-99a58364-8c02-206f-aa6f-40c3b507420d

    Insert the USB Installation media into your computer. Please change the boot order in the Bios Settings. Boot your PC from the Installation Media you created.

    Kindly refer to the link below on How to Perform a Clean Install for more details.

    https://support.microsoft.com/windows/reinstall-windows-with-the-installation-media-d8369486-3e33-7d9c-dccc-859e2b022fc7

    I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Do keep me informed by clicking "Add comment" below.

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  4. MUSTAFA SALAH 1,290 Reputation points
    2026-03-29T00:53:03.0466667+00:00

    Hello Tom McManus,

    1. First, we need to prepare the USB, use the media creation tool from Microsoft (https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows11#:~:text=Create%20Windows%2011%20Installation%20Media)

    // Of course, you need another PC access to do that //

    1. Once Finished,
      To boot from a USB, insert the drive, restart your computer, and spam the boot menu key (typically F12, F2, F11, or Esc) to select the USB drive. Alternatively, go to Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced Startup to change the boot order in the UEFI/BIOS settings.
    2. Continue the Installation as normal

    Regards,

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