How to Create a Bootable Disk in Windows

Creating a bootable disk in Windows can be helpful for reinstalling the system, recovering data, or fixing boot issues. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make a bootable disk using both Windows’ built-in tools and third-party software.

Method 1: Using the Built-in “Media Creation Tool”

Windows provides its own “Media Creation Tool” for making a bootable disk. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Go to the official Microsoft website and download the Media Creation Tool.
  2. Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions.
  3. Select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC.”
  4. Choose your preferred language, edition, and architecture (32 or 64-bit).
  5. Connect a USB drive (minimum 8 GB) or insert a blank DVD.
  6. Select the device where the bootable disk will be created and confirm your choices.
  7. Wait for the process to finish. Your disk or USB drive is now ready for booting.
Note: Make sure there are no important files on the drive, as they will be erased during the process.

Method 2: Creating a Bootable USB via Command Prompt

If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can create a bootable disk using the Command Prompt:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type diskpart and press Enter.
  3. Enter list disk to view all disks. Identify the number of your USB drive.
  4. Type the following commands one by one, replacing X with your USB disk number:

select disk X
clean
create partition primary
select partition 1
active
format fs=ntfs quick
assign
exit

Once formatted, copy the Windows files or the installation ISO onto the USB to make it bootable.

Method 3: Using the Rufus Program

Rufus is a free utility that allows you to quickly and easily create a bootable USB drive:

  1. Download and run Rufus.
  2. Connect your USB drive.
  3. Under “Device,” select your connected USB drive.
  4. In the “Boot selection” field, choose ISO Image and locate your Windows ISO file.
  5. Leave the other options as default, then click Start.
  6. Wait for the process to complete, and your bootable disk will be ready.