How to Convert ISO to Bootable USB: Step-by-Step Guides for Windows, macOS, and Linux
Converting an ISO file to a bootable USB drive is a common task for system administrators, developers, and anyone looking to install or reinstall an operating system. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to create a bootable USB using Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Prerequisites
Windows System: Rufus or UNetbootin as installation tools macOS System: Terminal and stable internet connection Linux System: Terminal and basic knowledge of terminal commands USB Drive: 4GB or larger, formatted as FAT32 and unmounted before writing the ISOWindows
Using a tool like Rufus or UNetbootin can simplify the process of creating a bootable USB from an ISO file.
Download a Tool: Choose Rufus if you prefer simplicity and speed, or UNetbootin for more options. Insert USB Drive: Ensure to back up any important data as this process will erase the drive. Open Rufus: Select your USB drive from the interface, if using UNetbootin, select your ISO file and USB drive. Wait for Completion: Once Rufus finishes, your USB drive will be bootable.macOS
Creating a bootable USB using macOS involves command-line operations. Follow these detailed steps:
Open Terminal: You can find Terminal in Applications Utilities. Convert ISO to IMG: Use the following command (assuming you have internet access and your ISO file is named ):bash hdiutil convert -format UDRW -oFind the USB Drive Identifier: Use the command diskutil list to identify your USB drive, which will appear as something like disk2. Unmount the USB Drive: Use the command diskutil unmountDisk /dev/diskN to unmount the USB drive, replacing N with your disk number. Write the IMG to USB: Use the command sudo dd if of/dev/rdiskN bs1m to write the image to the USB, replacing N with your disk number. Be cautious with this command as it will overwrite data. Eject the USB Drive: Use the command diskutil eject /dev/diskN to eject the USB drive, again replacing N with your disk number.
Linux
Creating a bootable USB on Linux can be done via the command line. Here are the detailed steps:
Open Terminal: Launch your terminal application. Find the USB Drive Identifier: Use the command lsblk to identify your USB drive, which may appear as something like /dev/sdb. Unmount the USB Drive: Use the command sudo umount /dev/sdX1 to unmount the USB drive, replacing X with the appropriate letter. Write the ISO to USB: Use the command sudo dd if of/dev/sdX bs4M statusprogress to write the ISO to the USB, replacing X with the appropriate letter. This command will overwrite the USB drive. Eject the USB Drive: Use the command sync to sync the USB drive, then diskutil eject /dev/diskN to eject the USB drive, again replacing N with your disk number.Final Steps
After creating the bootable USB, you can boot from it by restarting your computer and selecting the USB drive as the boot device in your BIOS/UEFI settings. Make sure to change the boot order if necessary.
If you encounter any issues or have specific requirements like creating a bootable USB for Windows or Linux, feel free to ask!
Resources
UNetbootin Guide Rufus Guide macOS Terminal CommandsBy following these instructions, you can easily convert an ISO file to a bootable USB drive on your preferred operating system.