Microsoft had continued to innovate and most computers today are now installed with Windows operating system. This OS is used in all kinds of computers – desktops, laptops and netbooks. They can also be used for tablets and other home theater PCs. Microsoft had introduced various important changes to the platform of its newest Microsoft OS. The focus of this new OS version is to allow users to enjoy the PC in much the same way that they enjoy tablets. It is also geared to compete with Android as well as IOS by Apple. Microsoft had introduced the touch screen input.
The release of Windows 8 captured millions of users, including upgrades. There were mixed reactions to this new operating system. The touchscreen, the performance and the security enhancements are positive features. However, its interface was a negative factor as it is confusing when the touchscreen is used with keyboard and mouse. But there is no stopping in the use of the Windows 8 and with your possible upgrade to this new version of Windows OS, you will be in need of your upgraded USB – the Windows 8 bootable USB stick. The bootable USB drive is better to use – rather than storing or writing a bootable DVD.
Bootable USB flash drive versus DVD disk
There are different reasons for having preference for bootable USB over the bootable DVD disk. For one thing, the USB flash drive is a faster media when compared to the DVD disk. It is very small such that it is very easy to carry – not needing a big space. It is not as fragile as the DVD where the latter is prone to folds and scratches. In having a bootable USB, the failure to write on it is far minimal than when a DVD is used. Furthermore, the incidence of corrupted installation is lesser with a bootable USB. When you are desirous of upgrading your computer’s OS into the new Windows 8, the bootable USB with Windows 8 stored in it will be easier to use.
Prerequisites in creating Windows 8 bootable USB
Before you can create your Windows 8 bootable USB, there are prerequisites that must be complied with. If you wish to use a Windows 8 with 32-bit, your USB flash drive must have a minimum of 4 Gigabytes storage capacity. With a 64-bit Windows 8, the needed USB flash drive is 8 GB. Whatever data you have in your USB drive must be backed up. This is because your creation of Windows 8 bootable USB will automatically format the USB drive. Hence, the data can be lost.
Step by step guide in creating Windows 8 bootable USB
Having complied with the prerequisites for bootable USB installation, you are now ready to create your new Windows 8 installation USB.
First, you need to download your Windows 8 ISO file. If you are not familiar with the capacity of your processor, that is you are not sure whether it is supporting a 32 or 64-bit, you are free to download the 32-bit ISO file. Next, you need to do another downloading. You need to download the USB/DVD download tool for Windows 7. Install this in your PC.
Second, you need a 4 GB or a higher capacity USB drive and you will have to connect this to your computer. You can start the process for creating the bootable USB by executing the Windows 7 USB/DVD download tool. The “Browse” button will be on your screen and you have to click this. Find the Windows 8 USB ISO image file that you have downloaded earlier. Hit this then click “Next”. Your Windows 8 download tool will make you pick the media tool. You have to choose USB device, after which you will have to click “Next” for continuance of the process. With this, you are able to create your back up for Windows 7. Copy this to your USB device. You will have on your screen the “insert USB device” prompt. You will have a drop down menu where you are to choose the connected USB flash drive that must be made into a Windows 8 bootable drive. You can copy by clicking “Begin”. The tool will begin copying the data for the Windows 8 ISO file into your USB stick. This will become the Windows 8 bootable USB.
Third, after completing the bootable USB making procedure you have to reboot your PC’s system. When doing this, you have to ensure that the USB is connected. You will have to boot the system in the BIOS then opts for the USB drive as your priority media for booting. Continue booting your OS from the USB. Heed the instructions on your computer screen to install Windows 8 in your computer.
Now, you are done creating your bootable USB and you have also installed Windows 8 into your computer. There is a Windows 8 tutorial if you want to learn more about this new OS.