A bootable USB lets you install Windows from scratch. Here's how to make one today, and what's expected to change for Windows 12.
What You'll Need
An 8GB+ USB drive, a working PC, and an official Windows ISO or the Media Creation Tool.
Method 1: Media Creation Tool
Download from Microsoft's official site (see our downloads page), select "Create installation media," choose your USB drive, and let it write automatically.
Method 2: Manual ISO + Rufus
Download the official ISO, then use Rufus (rufus.ie) to write it — select GPT partition scheme for modern UEFI systems.
Booting From USB
Restart and press F2/F12/Delete/Esc to enter the boot menu, then select your USB drive.
What's Expected to Change for Windows 12
The modular kernel may enable a smaller "Core" install option, potentially fitting on smaller drives. The core USB-creation workflow itself isn't expected to change.
Safety Note
Creating bootable media erases the USB drive's existing data — back up first and double-check drive selection.