Updated by Linda on July 20, 2023  | Home > Windows System To Go

Problem: Unable to create a bootable USB using Rufus.

Recently, I purchased a second-hand PC without an optical drive. Initially, I managed fine, but eventually, I needed to use a bootable USB stick. I attempted to install it using Rufus and its built-in Free DOS image. However, I encountered persistent issues because the PC attempted to write an NTFS structure while I had selected the MBR (Master Boot Record) format. This caused the boot process to consistently hang with an error message after attempting to write the MBR.

Warning: Could not obtain exclusive rights. Retrying with write sharing enabled...

Technically, Rufus is a tool used to create bootable USB flash drives. While many tech-savvy individuals now opt for other system approaches utilizing the NTFS structure in the latest Windows 10 operating system, Rufus has still become a necessity on most computers. It has essentially become mandatory for Windows systems to have Rufus. However, Rufus cannot create a bootable USB using the MBR method. It is an open-source utility that is provided free of charge.

Consequently, it can be quite challenging to seek customer support for issues arising from Rufus.

How to Create a Bootable USB for Windows Without Using Rufus

As we've observed, Rufus is a straightforward method for creating a bootable USB. However, due to advanced complexities, users often opt for alternative approaches. One widely used technique to create a bootable USB involves downloading ISO files and using the Windows Media Creation Tool to install Windows. Here, we provide a step-by-step guide on installing Windows 10 and setting up a bootable USB for Windows. For the purpose of this explanation, let's assume that the personal computer in use has an advanced Windows 10 operating system installed.

Before installation, make sure your PC has the Windows utility program Diskpart, an 8GB USB drive, and an ISO file suitable for your operating system.

Step 1. Download and then run the Microsoft Media Creation Tool. After the installation is finished, select the option to create installation media for another PC.

Step 2. Later, select the suitable ISO file that the media will use to create a bootable USB.

Step 3. For instance, if you have the Windows 10 operating system, choose an appropriate ISO file for Windows 10 and download it automatically.

Step 4. Once completed, you can store the backup file on a hard disk or CD drive for future use.

Step 5. Click the Finish button to close the files.

create bootable usb without rufus

This has been one of the well-known techniques employed, but you can also utilize other available methods, such as Rufus (which has been quite effective in some computers) and the Command Prompt utility.

Do You Need a Portable USB Drive for Windows?

We know that Rufus is a tool designed for users to create a bootable USB drive using a downloaded Windows ISO file, which is then utilized to perform a clean installation of the Windows operating system on a computer.

However, some people have different requirements. They simply want to put their Windows operating system on a USB drive and make it bootable. That's not what Rufus does, but you can achieve this with tools like OS2Go.

OS2Go provides you with the opportunity to create a portable Windows 11 USB drive as well as other Windows versions. Rather than lugging around a laptop as additional luggage, this software enables you to carry a portable Windows system for external use and recovery purposes. It supports Windows operating systems including Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11. Using this technology, you can create your own system, run an emergency bootable disk, and implement the latest Windows version on each system to facilitate user operations.

Creating a Windows portable USB drive using the tool OS2Go is straightforward.

Step 1. Install OS2Go on your Windows computer, which will show the used space on your system drive. Insert a USB drive with a capacity larger than the system drive's used space. Select the target USB drive and click Next to proceed.

how to use os2go step 1

Step 2. OS2Go will warn you that the following action will erase all data on your drive. Make sure you've backed up all important data. Click Continue to proceed.

how to use os2go step 2

Step 3. Adjust disk layout. The default disk layout on the target drive will be identical to the source drive. You can also edit the layout to suit your requirements. Check the option if you're using a Solid State Drive as the Windows boot drive. Then, click Proceed.

how to use os2go step 3

Step 4. OS2Go will then begin creating the portable USB drive. This process may take a while, depending on your operating system and network conditions. Once the progress reaches 100%, the USB drive should be bootable.

how to use os2go step 4

Step 5. Insert the portable Windows USB and restart your computer. Press the necessary key (F2, DEL, F10...) to access the BIOS. Select to boot from the USB drive.

Note: Please ensure that the boot mode (either UEFI or Legacy) of the portable USB and the target computer are identical, or else booting may not be possible.

Conclusion

Having a bootable USB drive is crucial for maintaining a seamless system that can be utilized across various locations. Rather than lugging your computer everywhere, a portable USB drive serves as a convenient accessory. In the era of advancing technology, it's vital to alleviate the burden of weight and potential risks. Since Rufus is unable to create a bootable USB for certain computers, having a bootable USB on hand ensures the safety of your content and enhances the computer-based experience.