How to write an ISO file to a USB on 2025:
Download Rufus → put your USB in → pick the ISO → Start.
Rufus erases everything and formats the USB drive to install a bootable Windows 10/11, Linux, or recovery software.
What You’ll Need to Burn an ISO to a USB
The next time you want to bring your favourite tool or an operating system with you, carry the entire collection of tools in a sufficiently large USB drive using USB keys and boot from it.
The term ISO file refers to a complete digital copy (binary image) that’s an exact duplicate of the disk it was copied from – useful for OS installers, antivirus tools, and system diagnostics.
While it doesn’t work like simple file copying, burning an ISO makes a USB’s partition and boot information contextually aware enough to start your system off of it.
For those struggling with creating a bootable USB with your swearing good cheer, Rufus is still the number-one zero-cost program of choice – fast, portable, and verified fully compliant with UEFI PCs as well as those not running non-Enterprise Windows 8 through 11.
What You’ll Need
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| ISO file | The operating system or tool image (For example, Windows 11 ISO, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS ISO) |
| USB drive | Minimum 8 GB (everything will be wiped) |
| Rufus tool | Free utility from rufus.ie |
| Windows PC | To use Rufus and create the bootable USB |
How to Burn an ISO to USB in Rufus
1. Download and Open Rufus
Go to rufus.ie and grab the portable version (you don’t need to install it).
Run the .exe, then grant any permission requests.
Optional: turn on auto-update for future releases (since Rufus 4.6, updates are signed by Pete Batard).
2. Insert Your USB Drive
Plug in your USB flash drive.
Rufus will detect it automatically; select it in the Device drop down.
Warning: The drive will be reformatted – back up any important files first.
3. Select the ISO File
From Boot selection, choose Disk or ISO image → SELECT.
Locate your ISO (e.g., Win11_24H2_English_x64.iso) → click Open.
Rufus verifies the image; if it’s not supported, redownload from Microsoft or Linux.
4. Modify Settings in Rufus (Defaults Are Fine)
| Setting | Recommended Option | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Image Option | Standard Windows install (Windows ISOs) | Setup (Using Wine for older LMDE needed when installing with a Windows ISO) |
| Partition Scheme | GPT for modern UEFI PCs; MBR for legacy BIOS | According to your motherboard firmware |
| File System | NTFS (default); FAT/FAT32 not recommended but may be necessary for legacy OS | NTFS supports files over 4 GB |
| Volume Label | Custom name (optional) | Helps label the drive |
For older or reused drives, turn on “Check device for bad blocks” in Advanced Format Options.
5. Start the Burning Process
Click START → DATA DELETION CONFIRMATION.
Rufus formats the drive and writes the bootable data.
Time: 2–20 minutes depending on image size and USB speed.
When you see READY, click Close and safely eject your USB.
Boot from the USB Drive
Insert it into the computer you want to install or repair.
Reboot and enter the boot menu (usually F2, F10, F12 or Esc).
Select your USB as the boot device and follow on-screen instructions.
Examples:
- Install Windows 11 Pro or Linux Mint 21.3
- Run a bootable antivirus scanner such as Bitdefender Rescue
- Test memory and disks with MemTest86 or GParted Live
Secondary Option: Accessing ISO Files without Booting
If you only need the ISO’s contents (not a bootable USB):
Right-click the ISO → Open with → 7-Zip/WinRAR → Extract to USB Drive.
This copies files but does not create a bootable image.
Pro Tips for 2025 Users
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Use USB 3.0/3.2 ports | Up to 10× faster write speed |
| Prefer Rufus Portable | Runs without installation |
| Check ISO checksum (SHA-256) | Verifies integrity against official sources |
| Use GPT + UEFI | Faster boot and modern firmware support |
| Try Ventoy (ventoy.net) | Multi-boot multiple ISOs from one USB |
Common Troubleshooting
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Device not found | Reinsert drive or restart Rufus |
| ISO too big | Use 8 GB + drive or reduce ISO size |
| Boot fails | Switch GPT ↔ MBR or NTFS ↔ FAT32 |
| “Unsupported ISO” error | Download official image or update Rufus |
Why Rufus Is Trustworthy
Rufus has been developed since 2011 by Pete Batard (Akeo Consulting).
It’s digitally signed, ad-free, and open-source on GitHub.
Each release is SHA-verified and trusted for professional IT use.
Always download only from rufus.ie – never third-party mirrors.
Conclusion
Creating a bootable USB drive from an ISO in 2025 is easier than ever with Rufus.
In just a few clicks, you can make installation media for Windows 11, revive an old PC with Linux, or build a portable recovery toolkit.
Lightweight, efficient, and reliable, Rufus remains the gold standard for ISO-to-USB creation – a true all-in-one solution for both personal and B2B tech workflows.
FAQs
Q1. How to burn an ISO image on a DVD instead of USB?
Right-click the ISO → Burn disc image → follow Windows 10/11 prompts.
Q2. Can I use Rufus to create a Windows 10 or 11 On-The-Go USB?
Yes, use an original Windows ISO for standard installation media.
Q3. How do I create a bootable or live USB for macOS?
Use Terminal’s createinstallmedia command or tools like balenaEtcher.
Q4. How to create bootable USB for Linux?
Most Linux ISOs work directly in Rufus. Alternatives: UNetbootin, balenaEtcher, Ventoy.
Q5. Is Rufus safe?
Yes. 100 % free, open-source, and widely trusted by Microsoft and Linux communities.
Louis Mugan is a seasoned technology writer with a talent for turning complicated ideas into clear, practical guidance. He focuses on helping everyday readers stay confident in a world where tech moves fast. His style is approachable, steady, and built on real understanding.
He has spent years writing for platforms like EasyTechLife, where he covers gadgets, software, digital trends, and everyday tech solutions. His articles focus on clarity, real-world usefulness, and helping people understand how technology actually fits into their lives.
Outside of his regular columns, Louis explores emerging tools, reviews products, and experiments with new tech so his readers don’t have to. His steady, friendly approach has made him a reliable voice for anyone trying to keep up with modern technology. get in touch at louismugan@gmail.com
