I have an extra M.2 slot in my PC and I'm wondering if I can download the Windows 11 installation media directly onto a fresh M.2 SSD. If that's possible, I want to know the steps to do this simply: can I just download the media to the M.2, then place it in my new PC, select it as the boot drive in BIOS, and have it load into Windows? After that, do I just need to download drivers for my GPU and motherboard, or is there anything else I should be aware of? Thanks for any help!
2 Answers
Using an M.2 for installation media isn't the usual route; it's typically easier to use a USB stick. You can boot from the USB to install Windows on your M.2 SSD. But if you're committed to this, it can work as long as you've got the installation files on the SSD. Just pop it into your new PC, enter BIOS, select it as your boot option, and you should be good to go! After installation, yes, make sure to download the correct drivers for your GPU and motherboard—it's mostly automatic, just follow the prompts.
I get why you'd want to use the spare M.2, especially if you don't have a USB drive handy. Just check that your old PC supports the M.2 SSD when you're doing the download. Since you mentioned not wanting to buy a USB you'll never use again, that's totally understandable. Running it off the M.2 should work fine, but remember to confirm that the files are correct before you transfer it!
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