For Mac users seeking to create a Windows 10 bootable USB, the journey can be a bit more complex than on a Windows PC. However, with the right tools and steps, this task becomes a breeze. Let’s dive into two methods that empower Mac users to achieve this with ease and finesse.
Create a Bootable Windows 10 USB on Mac Using PassFab 4Winkey
Utilizing PassFab 4WinKey presents a straightforward process for creating a Windows bootable USB drive on a Mac. This application, originally crafted for Windows account recovery, offers the bonus functionality of crafting a Windows USB bootable disk sans Boot Camp. A standout feature of 4WinKey is its automated Windows ISO download, streamlining the entire process.
To embark on this path, ensure your USB drive boasts a minimum of 16GB capacity and is devoid of crucial data, as it will be formatted. PassFab 4WinKey offers a free 30-day trial, and a premium subscription commences at .95 per month for access to its full suite of features.
- Install PassFab 4WinKey on your Mac.
- Insert your USB drive, which should be automatically recognized. Confirm the selection and initiate the ‘Burn’ process.
- Patience is key as the Windows ISO is downloaded, which could vary in time based on your internet speed.
- Upon completion, you’ll receive a confirmation along with instructions for booting a Windows PC with the recovery disk.
Voilà! You now have a bootable disk at your disposal for installing a fresh Windows OS on your PC or Mac.
Manually Create a Bootable USB Using Terminal
For those who prefer a hands-on approach, crafting a bootable USB through the Terminal app on a Mac is an alternative path. This method requires the installation of Homebrew, a package manager for Mac, and involves a few more steps than using 4WinKey.
- Begin by sourcing the ISO file from the Windows 10 download page, ensuring you select the appropriate edition and language.
- Use Disk Utility or Spotlight search on your Mac to locate and open the Utility, and proceed to erase your USB drive, opting for the ExFAT format.
- Mount the ISO file via the Terminal using the ‘hdiutil mount’ command, and install ‘wimlib’ with Homebrew.
- Create a ‘sources’ directory on the USB drive and use ‘wimlib-imagex split’ to divide any files over 4GB.
- Complete the process by copying the remaining files to your USB drive with the ‘rsync’ command.
Your bootable USB is now primed for action, ready to launch the Windows setup on any PC.
Whether you are tech-savvy or prefer a more automated solution, these two methods offer Mac users the flexibility to prepare a Windows 10 bootable USB drive. Select the one that suits your comfort level and technical prowess, and you’ll be on your way to managing Windows installation or recovery tasks with your Mac.
