How to Clean Install Windows 11 without USB

Can I Clean Install Windows 11 without USB?

A Windows 11 clean install involves wiping your drive and installing Windows from bootable installation or recovery media, such as a USB flash drive. In this process, all existing data, settings, and applications are erased, giving your laptop or desktop a fresh start. However, not everyone has access to a USB drive or wants to use one. So here comes the question: Can you do a clean install of Windows 11 without USB?

Yes, you can perform a Windows 11 clean install without USB by leveraging the official ISO file from Microsoft. Besides, there is another solution that allows you to migrate Windows 11 to new drive without USB. Both approaches eliminate the need for external installation media and allow you to set up Windows efficiently. Now, let’s explore both effective methods step by step.

Clean Install Windows 11 without USB using ISO File

The ISO file is Microsoft's official disk image containing all Windows 11 installation data. With it, you can mount the image directly on your current system and run setup without external devices. Here is how to install Windows 11 without USB or DVD step by step:

Step 1. Visit the Microsoft Windows 11 download page and download the Windows 11 ISO. You can choose the edition and language that matches your needs.

Step 2. Navigate to the downloaded ISO file, right-click it, and select Mount. This will create a virtual DVD drive on your PC.

Step 3. Then, double-click setup.exe to launch the Windows 11 Setup process.

Step 4. Click Change how Setup downloads updates, select Not right now, and go on to click Next.

Step 5. Click Change what to keep option, choose Nothing, and click Next.

Step 6. Then, follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with fresh installing of Windows 11 without USB. Windows may restart several times before completing.

Using an ISO file is simple and does not require any external device, as long as you have enough disk space and a stable internet connection to download the ISO. However, ensure you’ve backed up critical files beforehand - formatting a partition erases all data.

Install Windows 11 without USB via Cloning

Another powerful way to install Windows 11 without USB is through cloning. Cloning allows you to duplicate your entire Windows drive or move the Windows OS from one drive to another without the hassle of reinstalling. This is especially helpful when upgrading to a new SSD or migrating to another hard drive. AOMEI Cloner is one of the most user-friendly and feature-rich tools for system cloning and migration. Its standout features include:

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Best System and Disk Cloning Software

• System Clone: Move only your existing Windows OS directly to another drive without reinstalling or copying system-independent data.
• Disk Clone: Copy an entire hard drive, including partitions and data, like moving C drive to SSD.
• Partition Clone: Clone a specific partition when you don’t want the whole disk duplicated.
• Flexible Cloning: Intelligent Clone to copy only used sectors to save space and time; Sector by Sector Clone to create an exact replica of the original disk, including deleted and empty partitions.
• Advanced cloning features: Resize partitions during cloning to utilize disk space efficiently and optimize SSD performance and lifespan during migration.
• Ease of Use: User-friendly interface that doesn't require advanced technical knowledge.

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Download and install AOMEI Cloner on your computer, and follow the guides below to learn how to install Windows 11 on new drive with no USB.

Step 1. Attach your new SSD or HDD to the computer. Launch AOMEI Cloner and select System Clone for transferring only Windows 11 OS. You can also use Disk Clone to copy the entire drive.

Step 2. This tool automatically selects the system partition(s). Choose the new drive as the target location.

Step 3. Enable SSD Alignment if the target drive is an SSD. And click on Start Clone to install only OS to new drive easily.

FAQs on Windows 11 Install without USB

#1. Can I install Windows without a bootable USB?

Yes. You can clean install Windows 11 without USB by using the ISO file method or by cloning with software such as AOMEI Cloner. Both approaches bypass the need for bootable external media.

#2. Is it better to do a clean install of Windows 11?

For many users, yes. A clean install removes bloatware, hidden corruption, and unnecessary files, giving you a faster and more stable system. It’s especially beneficial when switching to a new drive or when your current Windows is heavily corrupted.

#3. Will a clean Windows 11 install wipe all drives?

No, a clean install only wipes the drive or partition where Windows is installed. Other drives remain intact unless you explicitly format or delete them during the installation process.

#4. Why can't I install Windows 11 even though I meet the requirements?

Common reasons include:

• Secure Boot or TPM 2.0 is not enabled in BIOS.
• Outdated BIOS firmware.
• Corrupted installation media or ISO file.
• Drive space not meeting the minimum requirement (64 GB or more).

#5. What is the easiest way to install Windows without USB drive?

Cloning with AOMEI Cloner is often the easiest method. It removes the hassle of manual setup, ensures bootability, and allows quick migration to new hardware.

Conclusion

Performing a clean install of Windows 11 without USB is possible by mounting an official ISO file, but this process may be complicated for many users. For an easier way to install Windows on a new drive without USB or CD, you can also rely on professional cloning software like AOMEI Cloner to copy Windows OS hassle-free.

Besides, this tool can help clone HDD to SSD or clone SSD to SSD for seamless data migration. Its simple-to-use interface and all-around cloning functions ensure a smooth, secure, quick system migration.