Windows 10 64-bit Free Download ISO and How to Make a Bootable USB

The process of creating a Windows recovery drive has undergone significant changes over the years. In this article, we will explore three free ways to create a Windows 10/11 recovery drive, including bootable USB drives.

Before diving into the details, it is essential to understand what a recovery disk is and its purpose. A Windows recovery disk, in the broad sense, includes a bootable disc containing advanced recovery options such as System Restore, Startup Repair, Safe Mode, and Command Prompt. These tools enable users to fix system errors and even reinstall Windows 10 or other operating systems from startup.

In recent years, creating a recovery USB has become a more mainstream approach due to its portability. This method allows users to carry their recovery drive with them wherever they go, making it easier to access essential recovery options in case of an emergency.

Since Windows 8, Microsoft has added a new feature that enables users to create a Windows recovery USB. This feature provides an easy and convenient way to create a bootable recovery drive without needing any additional software.

Method 1: Create a Recovery Drive using Media Creation Tool

The first method involves using the Media Creation Tool provided by Microsoft. To begin, download the Media Creation Tool from the official Microsoft website. Once downloaded, run the tool and follow the prompts to select the language and edition of Windows you want to create a recovery drive for.

Next, choose the option to 'Create a bootable media' and then select the USB drive as the destination device. The tool will automatically download the necessary files and create a bootable recovery drive.

Method 2: Create a Recovery Drive using Rufus

The second method involves using the free software application Rufus. To begin, download and install Rufus from its official website. Once installed, plug in your USB drive and launch Rufus.

Select the USB drive as the target device and then choose the ISO file of Windows 10 or Windows 11 that you want to use for the recovery drive. Rufus will automatically create a bootable recovery drive on your USB device.

Method 3: Create a Recovery Drive using Diskpart

The third method involves using the built-in Diskpart utility in Windows. To begin, open Command Prompt as an administrator and type 'diskpart' to launch the utility.

Next, list all available disk devices by typing 'list disk'. Identify your USB drive and take note of its disk number. Then, type 'select disk ' to select the USB drive.

Finally, type 'clean' to erase any existing data on the USB drive, followed by 'convert gpt' to convert the disk to GPT format. Once complete, you can copy the Windows 10 or Windows 11 ISO file onto the USB drive and create a bootable recovery drive.

In conclusion, creating a Windows recovery drive is a straightforward process that can be accomplished using three free methods. Whether you prefer to use the Media Creation Tool, Rufus, or Diskpart, having a bootable recovery drive on hand can help you recover from system errors and reinstall your operating system in case of an emergency.

Windows 10 64 bit free download iso and how to make a bootable usb