You can often start a PC from a bootable USB by using your system’s boot menu.

1. Insert the bootable USB into a direct USB port (rear ports on desktops can be more reliable).
2. Restart the PC and immediately tap the boot menu key (common keys include Esc, F2, F12, or Del; this varies by device).
3. Select the USB device from the list. On newer systems, choose the entry labeled for UEFI if you created UEFI media.
4. If you don’t see it, open firmware settings (BIOS/UEFI) to enable USB boot or adjust boot order. You may need to modify Secure Boot settings.
5. Continue with on-screen prompts. Steps vary by device, so consult your PC manual if needed.

Creating a bootable USB is straightforward with the right file and tool.

1. Use a USB drive with enough capacity (8–16GB or more) and back up anything on it; the process typically erases the drive.
2. Download the official installation or recovery image (ISO) for your operating system from its website.
3. Open a trusted USB creation utility, select the ISO, pick your USB drive, and choose a partition scheme that matches your PC (UEFI/GPT or Legacy/MBR).
4. Start the process and wait for completion, then safely eject the USB.
5. Test by using your PC’s boot menu to confirm it appears and loads. Results can vary by hardware and settings.

Capacity needs depend on the operating system and whether you’re adding extra tools.

• Basic installer or repair media: 8GB often works; 16GB provides more headroom.
• Multi-boot toolkits or multiple ISOs: 32GB–128GB offers space for several environments and utilities.
• Performance: A USB 3.x drive can reduce install times compared to USB 2.0, assuming your ports support it.
• Form factor: Match the connector you’ll use most (USB-A or USB-C) and consider an adapter if needed.

On our site, you can filter by capacity and USB version to find a good fit. Always check your OS image size and your PC’s requirements before buying.

A few settings or media issues commonly cause this.

• Check the boot menu: Restart and open the boot menu; pick the USB entry that matches your system type (UEFI vs. Legacy).
• Confirm USB creation: Recreate the media using a verified ISO and a reliable tool. Be sure you selected the correct target drive and partition scheme.
• Try another port/drive: Use a different USB port (rear ports on desktops) or a different flash drive. Some older PCs prefer USB 2.0.
• Firmware settings: In BIOS/UEFI, enable USB boot, adjust boot order, or review Secure Boot settings.
• Hardware/IT policies: Managed or locked systems may restrict external booting; contact your administrator or manufacturer support.

A bootable recovery USB can load tools outside your main drive, which may help diagnose and fix problems.

• Startup repair: Attempt to resolve boot loops or missing system files.
• System restore or rollback: Revert to earlier restore points or uninstall problematic updates when available.
• File backup: Access your drive to copy important files before reinstalling the OS.
• Diagnostics: Run memory and disk checks to identify hardware issues.

Boot from the USB, then choose the repair options that fit your situation. Not all issues are recoverable, and results vary. You can shop blank flash drives to create your own recovery media or look for preconfigured options on our site.