Rufus: Create a Bootable USB from an Official ISO
Prepare the installation/recovery media by writing the official Windows or Linux ISO to a USB. This guide covers installation, practical steps, limitations, and how to stop using the app.
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Who this guide is for and what to prepare
- First-time users of Rufus
- People who want to check the storage location and safety of data while reducing manual work
What you need
- Check the processing target and storage location, and preserve the original data in another location
- Check the official distribution source, supported OS, and required permissions
When to use it
Prepare the installation/recovery media by writing the official Windows or Linux ISO to a USB.
Install the official version
- Obtain the official executable file from rufus.ie, check the USB that can be erased, the official ISO, and the UEFI system of the target PC.
Try it
Connect the USB that can be erased and check the product name and capacity of [Device]. Open the official ISO from [Select]. Select GPT or MBR according to the target PC. Reconfirm the USB at the erase all warning after [Start]. Safely remove and check the boot menu of the target PC.
- Connect the USB that can be erased and check the product name and capacity of [Device]
- Open official ISO from [Select]
- Select GPT or MBR according to the target PC
- Re-check the USB at the erase all warning after [Start]
- Safely remove and check startup in the boot menu of the target PC
Use it safely
The selected USB will be erased. Don't judge internal/external drives based on capacity alone and avoid circumventing the security requirements of your organization's devices.
Turn it off or restore settings
Do not unplug the USB while writing is in progress; wait until the completion message appears before safely removing it. When returning to normal storage, save the necessary data, check the target USB, and format it. This operation erases the boot USB you created, so keep it as is if you want to reuse it for installation or recovery.
Limitations and requirements
- The selected USB will be erased. Don't judge internal/external drives based on capacity alone, and don't circumvent security requirements for your organization's devices.
- Check the current specifications in the official documentation and reconfirm on-screen what you want to delete or overwrite.
Frequently asked questions
How to choose between GPT and MBR?
Match the startup method of the target PC. Generally, GPT is a candidate for UEFI, and MBR is a candidate for old BIOS, but check the compatibility display between ISO and target system before choosing.
Can I return the USB to normal use?
You can return to normal use, but formatting will erase the contents. Make sure you are willing to lose the necessary data and boot media before specifying the target USB.
Official sources and verification date
Sources checked: . Check the official sources below for changes to supported systems, plans and menus.