How to Install Windows 11 from BIOS: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing Windows 11 can seem intimidating, especially if you’ve never gone through the process of booting from BIOS before. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be a tech wizard to handle it. With the right steps, anyone can install Windows 11 directly from BIOS and enjoy Microsoft’s latest operating system with ease.

In this guide, we’ll break down the process step by step, explain common pitfalls, and share tips to make your installation smooth and stress-free.

Table of Contents

Why Install Windows 11 from BIOS?

You might be wondering, Why not just upgrade from Windows Update? Good question. Here’s why installing Windows 11 via BIOS makes sense:

Fresh Installation: You get a clean system without leftover files or bloatware.
Fix Corrupt Systems: If your PC is not booting correctly, BIOS installation can help.
Upgrading Hardware: When you change hard drives or motherboards, you’ll need a clean install.
Bypassing Update Limitations: Not all PCs receive automatic upgrade prompts.

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Before diving in, make sure you have everything ready:

A USB Flash Drive (8GB or larger)
Windows 11 Installation Media (download from Microsoft’s website)
A Product Key (for activation, unless your device already has a digital license)
A Compatible PC that meets Windows 11 system requirements

💡 Tip: Use Microsoft’s “PC Health Check” tool to confirm compatibility.

Step 1: Download the Windows 11 ISO File

Go to the Microsoft Windows 11 download page.
Select Download ISO or use the Media Creation Tool.
Save the file to your PC.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

To install Windows 11 from BIOS, you’ll need a bootable USB.

Insert your USB flash drive into your computer.
Download and install Rufus or use Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool.
Choose the Windows 11 ISO file.
Set the partition scheme to GPT (for UEFI) and file system to NTFS.
Click Start and wait for it to finish.

Now you have a bootable Windows 11 installer!

Step 3: Enter BIOS/UEFI Settings

To boot from USB, you must access BIOS/UEFI.

Restart your computer.
While it’s booting, repeatedly press the BIOS key (commonly F2, F10, F12, Del, or Esc).
Navigate to the Boot Menu.
Set the USB drive as the primary boot device.
Save and exit.

Your PC will now boot from the USB drive.

Step 4: Begin the Windows 11 Installation

Once the USB boots, you’ll see the Windows setup screen.

Choose your language, time, and keyboard layout.
Click Install Now.
Enter your Windows 11 product key (or choose I don’t have a product key if your device already has a digital license).
Select the Windows 11 edition you want.

Step 5: Choose Installation Type

You’ll be given two options:

Upgrade: Keeps files and apps (not recommended for BIOS installs).
Custom (Advanced): Clean install (recommended).

Select Custom for a fresh installation.

Step 6: Partition Your Hard Drive

Select the drive where you want to install Windows 11.
If it’s a new hard drive, create a new partition.
If reinstalling, delete old partitions and choose Unallocated Space.
Click Next.

The installation process will now begin!

Step 7: Let Windows Install

Windows will copy files, install features, and restart several times.
Be patient—it may take 15–45 minutes depending on your system.

Step 8: Set Up Windows 11

Once installation completes:

Choose your region and keyboard layout.
Connect to Wi-Fi.
Sign in with a Microsoft account (or create one).
Adjust privacy settings as you prefer.
Set a PIN for login.

Congratulations—your PC now runs Windows 11!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. USB Drive Not Detected in BIOS

Reformat the USB using Rufus.
Make sure your PC supports UEFI boot mode.

2. Error: “This PC Can’t Run Windows 11”

Check TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are enabled in BIOS.
If unsupported, you may need registry tweaks (advanced users only).

3. Installation Stuck at a Percentage

Unplug unnecessary peripherals (USBs, external drives).
Restart installation if needed.

Tips for a Smooth Installation

Backup Important Files before wiping your drive.
Keep Your Charger Plugged In if installing on a laptop.
Update Drivers after installation for smooth performance.
Enable Secure Boot & TPM in BIOS before starting.

Benefits of Installing Windows 11 Fresh from BIOS

Better Performance – No leftover junk from old systems.
More Storage Space – Clears out unused files.
Stable System – Fewer errors than upgrading.
Custom Setup – Control partitions and settings.

Conclusion

Installing Windows 11 from BIOS might sound complicated, but once you break it down, it’s just a series of simple steps: create a bootable USB, boot into BIOS, and follow the setup process. With a little patience, you’ll have a fresh copy of Windows 11 running smoothly on your device.

Think of it like giving your computer a fresh start—it feels cleaner, faster, and ready to take on new tasks.

FAQs About Installing Windows 11 from BIOS

1. Do I need a product key to install Windows 11?

No, you can install without one, but you’ll need a key to activate later.

2. Can I install Windows 11 without TPM 2.0?

Officially, no—but there are workarounds. However, they’re not recommended for stability.

3. How long does a fresh install take?

Typically between 20–45 minutes, depending on your PC’s speed.

4. Will installing from BIOS erase all my data?

Yes, if you choose a clean install. Always back up before starting.

5. Can I downgrade back to Windows 10 after installing Windows 11?

Yes, but only within 10 days—or you’ll need to reinstall Windows 10 manually.