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How to Boot From a USB Flash Drive
Welcome to BasanzieTech!
Today, I will explain how to boot your computer from a USB flash drive.
Booting your computer from a device other than its usual hard disk is simple. Here is how to do it.
In most cases, your computer is configured to boot from devices in a specific order, such as checking for a CD or DVD before loading the operating system from the hard disk. Although this default order works well, there are times when you may want to change it.
For example, you may want to boot from a USB drive to install Windows 10. You might also want to change the hard disk your computer boots from so you can run multiple operating systems without dealing with complicated boot menus. Changing your computer's default boot order can be a little tricky, so here is how to manage it.
Booting From a USB Drive
If you want to boot from a USB flash drive, make sure you insert it before turning on your computer. Otherwise, your PC's BIOS may not recognize the drive, preventing you from booting from it.
You can use any USB port, but if the ports on the front of your computer fail to recognize the device, try connecting it to a port at the back.
Method 1: Use the Boot Menu
The easiest way to choose a boot device is to use your computer's boot menu. This allows you to select a drive for a one-time boot without changing the default boot order. The next time you restart your computer, it will boot from its usual hard disk.
This option is useful when installing an operating system because you can select your USB flash drive, install Windows, and then boot from your regular hard disk.
To access the boot menu, restart your computer or turn it on from a completely powered-off state. Watch for the Power-On Self-Test (POST) screen, which displays information when your computer starts. This screen may be hidden behind a logo, so look for a message instructing you to press the Tab key.
Next, look for a message indicating which key opens the boot menu. Common keys include F9, F10, and F12. After pressing the appropriate key, you may need to wait briefly for the boot menu to appear.
Use the arrow keys to select the device you want to boot from, then press Enter.
Method 2: Change the Boot Order in the BIOS
If your computer does not have a boot menu option, you will need to change the boot order through the BIOS (or UEFI on newer computers). This is also the best option if you want to make a permanent change, such as booting from an SSD you have installed in your system.
The exact steps vary depending on the manufacturer, so you may need to consult your computer or motherboard manual.
Look for the Boot menu, which displays the order in which your computer checks for bootable devices, from top to bottom. To change an entry, select it using the arrow keys and press Enter, then choose your preferred boot device.
You may notice that your USB flash drive does not appear in the list of boot options. Your computer's second hard disk, if available, may also be missing. Don't worry, as your BIOS may have a separate menu for setting the hard disk boot order.
Open this menu and change the first entry to the USB drive or hard disk you want your computer to boot from.
Return to the main boot menu, and you should now see your selected hard disk or USB flash drive listed as a boot option. Save your settings, and your computer will restart using the boot priority order you configured.
This boot order will remain in place until you change it again by following these steps.
A Final Word of Caution
If you choose to boot from a USB flash drive to install an operating system but your computer fails to load the installer, the solution may be simple. Look for a message saying “Press any key to boot from USB.” If you do not press a key when prompted, your computer will skip the USB drive and proceed to the next boot device in the configured boot order.
Thank you very much!
