Install Windows 11 from an ISO or USB stick

Requirements

Windows 11 needs TPM 2.0, Secure Boot and a supported CPU. Check your PC first with Microsoft's PC Health Check app.

Step 1 — Create installation media

1. On a working PC, download the Windows 11 installation media tool.
2. Choose Create installation media for another PC and write it to an 8 GB or larger USB stick.

Step 2 — Install Windows

1. Boot the target PC from the USB stick (pick the USB device in the boot menu — usually F12, F11 or Esc).
2. When asked for a product key, select I don't have a product key and choose the edition that matches your key (Home or Pro).
3. Complete the setup wizard and let the PC restart until the desktop appears.

Step 3 — Activate

1. Open Settings → System → Activation.
2. Select Change product key, enter your 25-character key, and confirm.
3. Wait for "Windows is activated".

Tips

• If the installer refuses TPM 2.0, enable TPM/PTT and Secure Boot in your BIOS/UEFI firmware settings and retry.
• Run slmgr /xpr in Command Prompt to confirm permanent activation.