Installing Windows 11 without internet might sound challenging, but it’s totally doable! This guide will walk you through the process, from creating a bootable USB to completing the installation offline. By following these steps, you’ll have Windows 11 up and running on your computer without needing an internet connection.
How to Install Windows 11 Without Internet
In the following steps, I’ll show you how to install Windows 11 on your computer without needing an internet connection. We’ll cover everything from preparing your installation media to completing the setup offline. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Create a Bootable USB Drive
First, use another computer to create a bootable USB drive with the Windows 11 installation files.
You can use a tool like Rufus or the official Microsoft Media Creation Tool. Make sure you download the Windows 11 ISO file from the Microsoft website. Follow the tool’s instructions to create the bootable USB.
Step 2: Insert the USB Drive into Your Computer
Next, insert the bootable USB drive into the computer where you want to install Windows 11.
Ensure your computer recognizes the USB drive. You may need to change the boot order in your BIOS settings to boot from the USB drive first. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup by pressing a key like F2, F12, or Delete during startup.
Step 3: Boot from the USB Drive
Now, restart your computer and boot from the USB drive.
You should see the Windows 11 setup screen once your computer starts from the USB drive. Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the installation process.
Step 4: Select Your Language, Time, and Keyboard Preferences
Choose your preferred language, time, and keyboard settings.
Make sure to select the correct options for your region and language. Click “Next” to proceed.
Step 5: Click “Install Now”
Click the “Install Now” button to start the installation.
The setup program will now begin copying files and preparing to install Windows 11 on your computer.
Step 6: Enter Your Product Key
Enter a valid Windows 11 product key when prompted.
If you don’t have a product key, you can choose the “I don’t have a product key” option to continue. You can activate Windows 11 later.
Step 7: Accept the License Agreement
Read and accept the license terms to proceed.
Make sure you read the terms carefully before accepting them. Click “Next” to continue.
Step 8: Choose Custom Installation
Select the “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” option.
This option allows you to perform a clean installation of Windows 11. You’ll need to select the drive where you want to install the operating system.
Step 9: Select the Drive
Choose the drive where you want to install Windows 11.
If necessary, you can format or create new partitions on the selected drive. Click “Next” to start the installation.
Step 10: Complete the Installation
Let the installation process run without interruptions.
Your computer will restart several times during the installation. Once it’s done, you’ll be prompted to set up your user account and other preferences.
After you complete these steps, Windows 11 will be installed on your computer. You can then customize the settings, install drivers, and enjoy the new features.
Tips for Installing Windows 11 Without Internet
- Make sure you have a valid Windows 11 product key before starting the installation.
- Use a reliable USB drive with at least 8 GB of storage for the installation media.
- Disconnect any unnecessary peripherals to avoid installation issues.
- Backup your data before performing a clean installation to prevent data loss.
- Keep your drivers handy on another USB drive, especially for network drivers, to set up your internet connection later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install Windows 11 without an internet connection?
Yes, you can install Windows 11 without an internet connection by using a bootable USB drive.
What do I need to create a bootable USB drive?
You’ll need a USB drive with at least 8 GB of storage and a tool like Rufus or the Media Creation Tool to create the bootable USB drive.
What if I don’t have a Windows 11 product key?
You can choose the “I don’t have a product key” option during installation and activate Windows 11 later.
Will I lose my data during the installation?
If you perform a clean installation, it’s recommended to back up your data, as it will erase everything on the selected drive.
How do I change the boot order in BIOS?
Restart your computer and press a key like F2, F12, or Delete during startup to enter the BIOS setup. From there, you can change the boot order to boot from the USB drive first.
Summary
- Create a bootable USB drive.
- Insert the USB drive into your computer.
- Boot from the USB drive.
- Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences.
- Click “Install Now”.
- Enter your product key.
- Accept the license agreement.
- Choose Custom Installation.
- Select the drive.
- Complete the installation.
Conclusion
Installing Windows 11 without internet might seem tricky at first, but it’s a straightforward process if you follow the steps outlined in this guide. With a bootable USB drive and a bit of patience, you can get Windows 11 up and running without ever connecting to the internet. This method is particularly useful for setting up new systems or dealing with network issues.
Remember, while you can install Windows 11 offline, you’ll need internet access later to activate the operating system and download updates. Also, consider keeping a backup of your important files and drivers to ensure a smooth installation process.
If you found this guide helpful, why not share it with others who might benefit from it? Happy installing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.