An open-source, free bootable USB tool

In 2011, Pete Batard released Rufus as a free open-source DOS bootable USB application to take the place of the Windows HP USB Disk Storage Format Utility (HUDSFT). During the years, there were several improvements, with 2020 seeing a more up-to-date, reliable release. The improvements in ISO image support, UEFI booting, and Windows To Go were the most noticeable changes.

Describe Rufus

Rufus cleans up USB flash drives so you can start a computer with a missing or damaged operating system (OS). It produces installation files from bootable ISOs, particularly for Microsoft Windows, Linux, and UEFI. Also, you may use it to flash a BIOS or additional DOS firmware.

Note: Try our site to download free rufus bootable device.

Using well-known programs like InfraRecorder or CDBurnerXP to burn ISO images onto CDs was formerly a standard practice. Pete Batard chose to develop a USB installer due to the advancement of technology after growing weary of proprietary software. Because the HUDSFT was lacking in several capabilities, he decided to take up the job of creating a copy of the program he could provide for free.

The advantages of utilizing Rufus as a bootable USB flash drive tool have received high praise in several reviews. The regular upgrades, which guarantee that the program is up to pace with contemporary needs, are one of the most important features.

The following systems and functions are supported by the following versions, which are listed in short below:

FreeDOS 1.0.4

1.1.0: Images in ISO

1.2.0: Updated MS-DOS and FreeDOS support

1.3.2: UEFI

1.4.0: Localization of languages

Windows To Go 2.0; Windows Vista and XP compatibility 2.18


How can I make a Rufus drive bootable?

Before you can make a Rufus USB installer, you must fulfill several conditions. Getting an ISO for the operating system you wish to use, such as Windows 7 or 10, comes first on this list. You must make sure that any download you use to claim one is secure and virus- and malware-free.



The most recent Rufus version and a USB flash drive are required once you've obtained a functional ISO image. After completing the prerequisites, you may launch the software application by connecting the external drive to the PC. You won't need to look for a USB drive because Rufus will do that for you.


Just choose "Disk or ISO image" from the "Boot selection" drop-down menu. You should click "Choose" on the tab's right to launch Windows Explorer. For Rufus to know which picture to burn, you must search for and access your ISO images.


You could see that when you click on "Choose," there is a "Download" option available. If you can't find one, the most recent version of Rufus provides files for Windows 8 and 10. After asking you which one you want to download, it will allow you to get on with the process.


When you select "Normal Windows installation," Rufus will choose the proper Partition Plan for your computer. You must determine and make a volume label.


Can a USB drive be used to run Windows 10?

Rufus can now run Windows 10 directly from a USB device according to the most recent improvements. To prevent legal action or copyright concerns from Microsoft, you must first obtain the proper license. The flash drive may then be inserted into your computer when you're prepared to switch your operating system.



Hold down the appropriate button combination or hit it once your computer has booted up to change the boot location. You may choose that it should boot from the USB flash drive and guide you through the Windows 10 installation. Because there are fewer resources available than during a PC installation, the System will operate a little slower when installed on a flash drive.


A multiboot USB can Rufus create?

Rufus was developed to provide a single operating system USB installer, according to the website's statement from the creator. There is a warning that multiboot handling will not be added to the software any time soon. Yet, that doesn't imply it can't be done with a little adjustment.



To use a second, bigger flash drive as a multiboot USB, you will need to. You may copy the ISO files to your multiboot drive after making the bootable USB using Rufus by using the identical procedures as previously. You just insert your Rufus USB again, select a different operating system, and wait as the program reformats the disc to accommodate the new OS. The new files can be copied into a different folder to your multiboot disc.


Which program produces the best bootable USB?

The main rival of Rufus is UNetbootin. If you compare the two apps just based on user evaluations, Rufus comes out on top as the best USB flash drive utility globally, while UNetbootin comes in ninth. Rufus's ability to recognize your flash drive automatically reduces the likelihood that you'll unintentionally format your computer's hard disc, which is the key driver for this preference.


Make a fresh USB operating system installer quickly

The Rufus procedure may appear challenging at first, but with experience, it gets simpler. With the program, you may make a multiboot device that offers quicker performance and greater storage on a separate disc. Rufus may be used to construct a portable booting system, which you should do if your Computer won't boot up or if the OS is faulty.