Linux enthusiasts have long enjoyed the flexibility of booting entire distributions from a flash drive, allowing for a seamless experience without the need for installation on a hard drive. This method not only serves as a testing ground for new distros but also provides a familiar environment on public PCs where personal software installations may not be permitted. However, Windows users faced a setback when Microsoft discontinued the Windows To Go feature in 2020, which allowed similar functionality. Fortunately, the Rufus utility has emerged as a workaround, enabling users to create a faux Windows To Go installation. A recent exploration into this method revealed a surprisingly effective process.
Creating a portable Windows installation
A usable Windows PC anywhere you go
To embark on creating your own Windows To Go installation, the first step is to download an official Windows 11 ISO. Unlike using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool, which directly creates a flash drive, Rufus allows you to prepare a flash drive using the ISO file. The process is straightforward: select the ISO and the desired flash drive, then adjust the Image option from Standard Windows Installation to Windows To Go. After clicking START, a menu will present options, including one that restricts access to internal drives, ensuring your data remains secure on public machines.
You’ll want a fast (and large) drive
It’s not the same as an installation drive
Upon following these steps, the initial boot attempt on a basic 16GB drive resulted in a freeze, while a second attempt led to an endless loading cycle. Recognizing the limitations of the smaller drive, a switch to a portable 128GB SSD yielded much better results. The flashing process with Rufus was quicker, and after booting, the setup progressed past the “Getting ready” screen, although a black screen followed. A subsequent restart finally allowed for the completion of the portable Windows installation. Notably, Rufus also bypassed the requirement for a Microsoft account, streamlining the setup process.
However, users should be prepared for potential driver issues, especially when transitioning between different computers. The USB drive serves as the storage for files within the Windows installation, allowing for easy transfer of downloaded files across devices. With 48GB already utilized after installing essential drivers and a preferred browser, a minimum of a 64GB USB drive is advisable for a functional Windows environment, aligning with Windows 11’s requirements.
It’s not a perfect solution
You may sometimes have problems
Despite careful setup, the faux Windows To Go installation may not function flawlessly on every machine. Testing across multiple devices, including a Huawei MateBook X Pro and a Geekom IT15, revealed inconsistencies. A third device, the Asus Zenbook 14 OLED, failed to recognize the flash drive during boot, highlighting the potential for compatibility challenges. Even on compatible systems, initial boot failures were common, necessitating multiple attempts to achieve a successful startup. While these issues did not result in permanent damage, they could be a source of frustration for users.
It may still be worth it
A portable workspace
Once the initial hurdles are overcome, utilizing a computer from a flash drive can be a smooth experience. With a portable SSD capable of 10Gbps bandwidth via USB 3.2 Gen 2, running Windows 11 felt remarkably efficient. Programs installed on the drive, such as Vivaldi, travel with all settings intact, offering a consistent user experience across different machines. This setup proves invaluable for those needing to use public PCs, which often come with restrictions on software installations or outdated operating systems.
Having a complete workspace on a portable drive allows for a tailored experience, despite occasional performance variations or driver incompatibilities. While the unofficial nature of this solution means future updates could potentially disrupt functionality, the current performance is promising. For those seeking a portable Windows setup, this method is certainly worth exploring.
