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To get started with Windows Server 2025, you need a bootable USB drive. The easiest way to create one is by using Rufus, a reliable tool that doesn’t require an installer. Below, we’ll walk through the steps and provide verified commands and best practices.
Steps to Create a Bootable USB for Windows Server 2025
1. Download Rufus – Get the latest version from Rufus Official Website.
2. Insert USB Drive – Use a USB stick with at least 8GB of storage.
3. Run Rufus as Administrator – Right-click and select Run as administrator.
4. Select USB Device – Choose your inserted USB drive from the dropdown.
5. Load ISO File – Click SELECT and browse to the Windows Server 2025 ISO.
6. Partition Scheme – For modern systems, use GPT for UEFI or MBR for legacy BIOS.
7. Start Process – Click START and wait for completion.
You Should Know:
- Verify ISO Integrity – Use PowerShell to check SHA256 hash:
Get-FileHash -Algorithm SHA256 "C:\path\to\Windows_Server_2025.iso"
- Alternative Linux Method – If on Linux, use
dd:sudo dd if=Windows_Server_2025.iso of=/dev/sdX bs=4M status=progress && sync
*(Replace `/dev/sdX` with your USB device, e.g., `/dev/sdb`)*
- Rufus Advanced Options – Enable Windows To Go for portable installations.
- Secure Boot Compatibility – Ensure your ISO supports Secure Boot if enabled in BIOS/UEFI.
Post-Creation Checks
- Test Bootable USB – Restart PC, enter BIOS (usually F2/DEL), and select USB as boot device.
- Diskpart Cleanup (If Needed) – If USB fails, wipe it using:
diskpart list disk select disk X (replace X with your USB number) clean create partition primary format fs=fat32 quick exit
What Undercode Say:
Creating a bootable USB for Windows Server 2025 is straightforward with Rufus, but always verify your ISO and USB integrity. For Linux users, `dd` remains a powerful alternative. Remember:
– Always back up USB data before formatting.
– Use Ventoy (ventoy.net) for multi-ISO bootable USBs.
– Check UEFI/BIOS settings to avoid boot failures.
Expected Output:
- A bootable USB ready for Windows Server 2025 installation.
- Verified hash checks for ISO integrity.
- Compatibility with both UEFI and legacy BIOS systems.
For more IT and cybersecurity guides, follow trusted sources and always practice in a lab environment first.
References:
Reported By: Andreas Hartig – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
