Using bootable media lets you start your computer from an external device instead of the usual operating system on your hard drive. This is essential for installing new operating systems, running diagnostic tools, or troubleshooting computer issues.
Using bootable media, such as a USB drive or DVD, typically involves accessing your computer's boot menu during startup and selecting the external device.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare Your Bootable Media
First, you need to create the bootable media. This usually involves:
- Downloading an ISO file (a disk image) of the operating system or utility you want to use.
- Using a tool (like Rufus, Etcher, or built-in Windows/macOS tools) to write the ISO file onto a USB drive or burn it to a DVD. Make sure the media is formatted correctly (e.g., FAT32 for many USB drives, especially for older BIOS compatibility).
Step 2: Insert the Bootable Media
- Insert the bootable USB drive into an available USB port on your computer.
- If using a bootable DVD, insert it into your computer's optical drive.
Step 3: Restart Your Computer
- Restart or turn on your computer. As soon as the manufacturer's logo appears (or even before), you need to act quickly.
Step 4: Access the Boot Menu
- Once the computer has turned on, press the 'F11' or 'Delete' keys repeatedly until you reach the boot menu. The specific key varies depending on your computer's make and model. Common keys include F2, F10, F12, Delete, or Escape. Look for on-screen prompts during startup like "Press F12 for Boot Menu" or "Press DEL to enter Setup".
Here are some common keys used by different manufacturers:
| Manufacturer | Common Boot Menu Key |
|---|---|
| Dell | F12 |
| HP | F9 or Esc |
| Lenovo | F12 or Fn + F12 |
| ASUS | F8 or F11 |
| Acer | F12 |
| Custom PC | F11 or Delete |
Step 5: Select Your Boot Device
- From the boot menu, you will see a list of available boot devices.
- From here, select 'Boot from USB' and choose your drive from the available options. If you are using a DVD, select 'Boot from CD/DVD Drive'.
- Use the arrow keys to navigate the menu and the Enter key to select your choice.
Step 6: (Optional) Adjust BIOS/UEFI Settings
- Depending on your machine's setup, you may also have to make additional changes in BIOS mode prior to booting up. If you cannot access the boot menu or your bootable media isn't listed, you might need to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility (often by pressing F2 or Delete during startup).
- In the BIOS/UEFI settings, look for a section like "Boot Order," "Boot Sequence," or "Boot Options."
- Change the boot priority to list your USB drive or DVD drive before your hard drive.
- Save your changes (usually by pressing F10) and exit the BIOS/UEFI setup. The computer will then restart, and it should attempt to boot from your chosen media.
Once your computer successfully boots from the media, you will see the startup screen of the operating system installer, diagnostic tool, or live environment you prepared.
