How to Install Windows 8 from USB Drive/Stick/Pen Drive?

Microsoft released the much awaited Windows 8 operating system last week and since then a lot of people have purchased this exciting piece of software. The new OS has a lot of new features including the attractive new tile based interface. The new operating system also provides users with a much enhanced multitasking experience.

Several hardware manufactures have also started selling devices with Windows 8 operating system pre-installed. A lot of users who were using the preview version of the operating system have also shifted to the new OS. If you haven’t laid your hands on this OS, then go ahead and purchase a copy. 

Several users have raised questions regarding whether it will be possible to install the OS using a USB drive. The answer is yes. It is possible. Most people prefer USB installation because the process is executed much faster than a typical CD/DVD installation. You can install Windows 8 OS using USB drive/ pen drive by following the steps given below. Before starting the tutorial let’s look at the requirements.  

Requirements

• Windows 8 DVD or ISO image
• Microsoft Windows 7 USB DVD download tool
• PC/Laptop running on Windows
• 4GB or larger pen drive

Installation

Step 1: First download and install Windows 7 USB DVD download tool from here.

Step 2: Make an .ISO image of the operating system from your Windows 8 DVD

Step 3: Open the Windows 7 USB DVD download tool

Step 4: Browse to the Windows 8 .iso file

Step 5: Place the USB drive into the USB port in your device

Step 6: Select the USB device from the DVD download tool 

Step 7: Click on ‘Begin Copying’ 

Step 8: A message will pop up which will prompt you to erase the USB drive

Step 9: Copy the data on the device and choose Erase

Step 10: The copying process will start

Step 11: Wait until the process is complete

Step 12: Close the window once the process is complete

Step 13: Files necessary for Windows 8 installation will be copied on to the USB device

Step 14: Restart your computer

Step 15: From the BIOS screen, select boot from USB

Step 16: Follow the subsequent steps in the screen to install Windows 8 

Please Note: For those who are upgrading their current OS to Windows 8, before upgrading to Windows 8, Microsoft recommends that you run the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant. It scans your current PC to see if it is ready for Windows 8 and then provides a compatibility report and optional steps for you to buy, download, and install Windows 8.Download Upgrade Assistant from here.