Introduction: Creating a Windows-To-Go USB
Purpose:
A Windows-To-Go installation allows you to run windows fully off your USB. This is useful for when you are working on a project and have access to a computer but you don't want to upload and download all the necessary files for your project. Using a portable version of Windows also helps protect your personal data because only the files on the flash drive are started when the PC boots up.
Supplies:
You will need a flash drive with at least 16gb of storage
A computer with a USB port
Step 1: Download Rufus
Navigate to https://rufus.ie/
Scroll down and download the latest version of Rufus
Step 2: Download the Windows 8 ISO File
Go to https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows8ISO
Select the 64-bit version of Windows 8
Select the correct language
Step 3: Open Rufus
Open Rufus and change the image option to "Windows To Go"
Click the select button and navigate to where you saved the Windows 8 download
Then make sure that Rufus has correctly selected the USB you wish to install Windows on
Step 4: Choosing the Windows Version
After pressing "Start" choose the version of Windows you want to install and press "Ok"
Step 5: Setting the Computer to Boot From USB
After Rufus has finished installing, you will need to power down your PC.
After your PC has shut down, press "f12" until you have entered the boot selection screen
Then select your USB device. Mine was called "Removable Device".
Step 6: Setup Windows
After booting off your USB you will have to set up your windows environment. After answering some basic questions you are ready to go and can enjoy bringing your computer anywhere on a USB.
Step 7: Using Windows
When you are done and want to save the progress onto your USB, you just turn the computer off like normal. Make sure you turn off the PC before you unplug the USB, you could lose data if you don't!