If you want to boot from a USB on Windows 10, you need to change the boot order in your computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings. First, prepare a bootable USB drive with your desired operating system or tool. Next, restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings by pressing a specific key like F2, F12, Delete, or Esc during startup. Once inside, navigate to the boot order settings and set the USB drive as the primary boot device. Save your changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI menu. Your computer should now boot from the USB drive.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Boot from USB on Windows 10
Learning to boot from a USB on Windows 10 can open up new possibilities, like installing a new operating system or running diagnostic tools. Follow these steps to make it happen:
Step 1: Prepare a Bootable USB Drive
Make sure the USB drive is bootable with the desired operating system or tool.
You’ll need to use software like Rufus or the Windows Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB. These tools will format your USB drive and copy the necessary files for booting. Be aware that formatting will erase all data on the USB, so back up any important files first.
Step 2: Insert the USB Drive
Plug the bootable USB drive into an open USB port on your computer.
Ensure that the USB drive is firmly inserted and recognized by your computer. If your computer doesn’t detect it immediately, try another USB port. It’s crucial that the USB is connected before you restart your computer.
Step 3: Restart Your Computer
Reboot your computer to begin the boot process.
As your computer restarts, keep an eye out for a prompt that tells you which key to press to enter the BIOS or UEFI setup. It’s usually one of the function keys (like F2 or F12), Delete, or Esc. Timing is everything here, so be ready to press the key quickly.
Step 4: Enter BIOS/UEFI Settings
Press the designated key to enter the BIOS or UEFI setup menu.
Once in the BIOS/UEFI, you’ll encounter a different interface, depending on your computer’s make and model. You’ll need to navigate using the keyboard, as mouse functionality might not be available.
Step 5: Change Boot Order
Navigate to the boot order settings and set the USB drive as the first boot option.
Find the boot order or boot priority section, which might be under a menu labeled "Boot" or "Advanced." Use the keyboard to move the USB drive to the top of the list. This tells your computer to try booting from the USB before anything else.
Step 6: Save and Exit
Save your changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI menu to restart your computer.
Look for an option to save changes and exit, which is often listed under a "Save & Exit" tab. Once saved, your computer should automatically restart and boot from the USB drive.
Once these steps are completed, your computer will boot from the USB drive, launching the operating system or tool you prepared. This process is particularly useful for installing a new operating system, running live environments, or performing system repairs.
Tips for Booting from USB on Windows 10
- Make sure your USB drive is large enough to hold the necessary files, typically 8GB or more.
- Double-check that your BIOS/UEFI firmware is up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.
- If your USB isn’t recognized, try formatting it again or using a different USB port.
- Some computers might have a "Secure Boot" feature that needs to be disabled for USB booting.
- Always safely eject your USB drive when removing it to prevent data corruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn’t my USB drive being recognized?
Your USB might not be formatted correctly or could be inserted in a faulty port. Try reformatting or using a different port.
Do I need to disable Secure Boot?
In some cases, yes. Secure Boot can prevent USB booting, so you might need to disable it in BIOS/UEFI settings.
What if my computer doesn’t enter BIOS/UEFI settings?
Ensure you’re pressing the correct key at the right moment during startup. Check your computer’s manual for the specific key.
Can I boot from USB on any computer?
Most modern computers support USB booting. However, older models may not have this capability.
Is it safe to boot from a USB drive?
Yes, as long as the USB drive contains legitimate, malware-free software.
Summary of Steps
- Prepare a bootable USB drive.
- Insert the USB drive.
- Restart your computer.
- Enter BIOS/UEFI settings.
- Change boot order.
- Save and exit.
Conclusion
Booting from a USB on Windows 10 isn’t just a neat trick—it’s a powerful tool that can help you install new operating systems, troubleshoot issues, and more. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll gain more control over your computer’s startup process. Plus, it opens up a world of possibilities for experimenting with various operating systems and utility tools without affecting your main system.
As technology continues to evolve, understanding how to leverage these capabilities will only become more important. Whether you’re a casual user looking to try out Linux or a tech enthusiast diving into system diagnostics, booting from a USB is a skill worth mastering.
Once you’ve got the hang of it, why not try setting up a dual boot system or exploring different Linux distributions? Success in tech often comes from a willingness to experiment and learn continuously.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab a USB drive, and give it a shot. You might just discover a new passion or solve a pesky computer issue along the way!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.