What To Know
- Whether you’re installing a fresh operating system, trying out a new Linux distribution, or simply need to troubleshoot a system issue, knowing how to boot from a USB drive on your ASUS VivoBook 15 is a valuable skill.
- Select the USB drive from the list and move it to the top of the boot order.
- Booting from a USB drive on your ASUS VivoBook 15 is a straightforward process once you understand the steps involved.
Whether you’re installing a fresh operating system, trying out a new Linux distribution, or simply need to troubleshoot a system issue, knowing how to boot from a USB drive on your ASUS VivoBook 15 is a valuable skill. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.
Understanding the Basics of Booting from USB
Before diving into the steps, let’s understand the fundamental concept of booting from USB. When you turn on your computer, it usually starts by loading the operating system from the hard drive. However, you can instruct it to load the operating system from a USB drive instead. This is achieved by changing the boot order in the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) settings.
Preparing Your USB Drive
1. Format the USB Drive: The first step is to format your USB drive. This will erase all existing data, so make sure to back up any important files. Use a tool like Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS) to format the drive in FAT32 or NTFS format.
2. Download the ISO File: Download the operating system or software you want to install from a reliable source. This file will be in ISO format.
3. Create a Bootable USB Drive: Use a tool like Rufus, Etcher, or UNetbootin to create a bootable USB drive from the ISO file. These tools will copy the ISO file onto the USB drive and make it bootable.
Accessing the BIOS Setup on Your ASUS VivoBook 15
The BIOS setup is where you’ll change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive. Here’s how to access it:
1. Power On Your Laptop: Turn on your ASUS VivoBook 15.
2. Press the BIOS Key: As the laptop starts booting, press the BIOS key repeatedly. The key may vary depending on your model, but it’s commonly **F2, F10, Del, or Esc**. Refer to your laptop’s manual or the screen that appears during startup to confirm the correct key.
3. Enter the BIOS Setup: Once you press the correct key, you’ll be taken to the BIOS setup screen.
Changing the Boot Order
1. Navigate to the Boot Menu: Use the arrow keys to navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Order” section of the BIOS setup.
2. Prioritize the USB Drive: Look for the option to change the boot order. Select the USB drive from the list and move it to the top of the boot order. This ensures that the laptop will try to boot from the USB drive first.
3. Save and Exit: After making the changes, save the settings and exit the BIOS setup. This is usually done by pressing **F10** and selecting “Save & Exit” or “Exit & Save Changes”.
Booting from the USB Drive
1. Insert the USB Drive: Plug the USB drive into your ASUS VivoBook 15.
2. Restart Your Laptop: Restart your laptop. It should now boot from the USB drive.
3. Follow On-Screen Instructions: You’ll see the installation process or the software you’re trying to run. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- BIOS Key Not Working: If you’re unable to access the BIOS setup using the usual keys, try pressing **Shift + F10** during startup.
- USB Drive Not Recognized: Ensure the USB drive is properly connected and formatted correctly. Try using a different USB port.
- Installation Fails: If the installation process fails, check the integrity of the ISO file and try creating a new bootable USB drive.
- Boot Order Not Saved: If the boot order reverts back to the default after restarting, try updating the BIOS to the latest version.
Final Thoughts: Ensuring a Smooth Boot Process
Booting from a USB drive on your ASUS VivoBook 15 is a straightforward process once you understand the steps involved. By following this guide, you can confidently install new operating systems, troubleshoot system issues, or explore new software options. Remember to always back up important data before making any significant changes to your system.
Questions You May Have
1. What if my ASUS VivoBook 15 doesn’t have a USB port?
Most ASUS VivoBook 15 models come equipped with at least one USB port. If your specific model lacks a USB port, you’ll need to use an external USB adapter or a different method for booting from a USB drive.
2. Can I boot from a USB drive with Windows already installed on it?
While you can boot from a USB drive with Windows already installed, it’s not the recommended approach. This can lead to performance issues and compatibility problems. It’s generally better to create a bootable USB drive specifically for installing or troubleshooting Windows.
3. What happens to the data on my USB drive after I create a bootable drive?
Creating a bootable USB drive will erase all existing data on the drive. Make sure to back up any important files before proceeding.
4. Can I use a different tool to create a bootable USB drive?
Yes, there are other tools available for creating bootable USB drives, such as Universal USB Installer, WinUSB Maker, or the official tool provided by the operating system you’re installing. Choose a tool that’s compatible with your operating system and the ISO file you’re using.
