Running Windows 11 on an older PC may struggle with TPM, Secure Boot, RAM limitations, or slow performance after installation. But Tiny11 can be a useful tool to deal with such issues. Tiny11 is a lightweight version of Windows 11 that removes unnecessary system apps and hardware restrictions. It allows users to experience Windows 11 even on unsupported PCs. One of the most common ways to install Tiny11 is by creating a bootable USB drive.
In this guide, you will learn how to create a Tiny11 bootable USB and how to use the Tiny11 ISO to install Windows 11 step by step.
So let’s just dive in!
How to Create a Tiny 11 Bootable USB
Creating a Tiny11 bootable USB means copying the Tiny11 ISO file to a USB drive in a way that makes it bootable. Once done, you can install Tiny11 on any compatible PC.
What You Need Before You Start
Before creating the bootable USB, make sure you have the following:
• A USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of storage
• A Windows PC
• Tiny11 ISO file
• Rufus software
• Stable internet connection
Step 1: Download the Tiny11 ISO File
Tiny11 is created by NTDEV and is usually available through trusted community sources. Since Tiny11 is not an official Microsoft release, you should only download it from reliable platforms.
You can find Tiny11 ISO files on Archive.org: https://archive.org/search.php?query=Tiny11
Choose the latest version available and download the ISO file to your computer. The file size is usually between 3 GB and 4 GB.
Step 2: Download Rufus Software
Rufus is a free and widely used tool for creating bootable USB drives. Download Rufus from its official website: https://rufus.ie
Once downloaded, you do not need to install it. Rufus runs directly when opened.
Step 3: Insert the USB Flash Drive
Insert your USB drive into your PC. Make sure it does not contain important data because it will be formatted during the process.
Step 4: Open Rufus
Double-click the Rufus executable file to launch it. If Windows asks for permission, click Yes.
Step 5: Select the USB Device
Under the Device section in Rufus, choose your USB flash drive from the dropdown list.
Double-check the device selection to avoid formatting the wrong drive.
Step 6: Select the Tiny11 ISO File
Click on the Select button next to Boot Selection. Browse and select the Tiny11 ISO file you downloaded earlier.
Step 7: Configure Partition Scheme and Target System
Rufus will automatically detect most settings, but you should verify them:
• Partition Scheme: GPT for UEFI systems or MBR for Legacy BIOS
• Target System: UEFI or BIOS, depending on your PC
If you are unsure, GPT with UEFI is recommended for modern systems.
Step 8: Choose File System
Set the File System to NTFS. Tiny11 ISO files are usually larger than 4 GB, so NTFS works best.
Step 9: Start the Bootable USB Creation
Click the Start button. Rufus may show additional Windows installation options. You can proceed with default settings. Click OK when prompted.
The process will take several minutes. Once finished, you will see a Ready status.
Your Tiny11 bootable USB is now complete.
How to Use Tiny11 ISO to Install Windows 11
Now that your bootable USB is ready, it is time to install Tiny11 on your PC.
Step 1: Insert the Tiny11 Bootable USB
Plug the Tiny11 USB drive into the PC where you want to install Windows 11.
Step 2: Enter the Boot Menu
Restart the PC and press the boot menu key during startup. Common keys include:
• F12
• F11
• Esc
• Del
The correct key depends on your PC manufacturer.
Step 3: Select USB Boot Device
From the boot menu, choose your USB flash drive and press Enter.
The Tiny11 setup will load.
Step 4: Choose Language and Keyboard Layout
On the Windows setup screen, select your preferred language, time format, and keyboard layout.
Click Next.
Step 5: Click Install Now
Click the Install Now button to begin the installation process.
Step 6: Skip Product Key
When asked for a Windows product key, click I do not have a product key.
Tiny11 allows installation without immediate activation.
Step 7: Select Windows Edition
If prompted, choose the Windows 11 edition available and click Next.
Step 8: Accept License Terms
Read the license terms and check the agreement box.
Click Next.
Step 9: Choose Custom Installation
Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
This option allows a clean installation.
Step 10: Select Installation Drive
Choose the drive where you want to install Tiny11.
You can delete existing partitions for a clean install if needed.
Click Next.
Step 11: Wait for Installation to Complete
Tiny11 will begin installing. Your PC may restart several times.
Do not remove the USB until the process finishes.
Step 12: Complete Initial Setup
After installation, you will complete basic setup steps such as:
• Region selection
• Keyboard setup
• Network configuration
• User account creation
Once done, Tiny11 will load to the desktop.
Conclusion
Creating a Tiny11 bootable USB is one of the easiest ways to install Windows 11 on older or unsupported PCs. By following the steps in this guide, even beginners can prepare a bootable USB and complete the installation without confusion.
Tiny11 offers faster performance, fewer background processes, and reduced system requirements, making it ideal for low-end systems. However, always remember that Tiny11 is a modified version of Windows and should be used responsibly.
If your PC struggles with standard Windows 11, Tiny11 can be a practical alternative that delivers a smooth and lightweight experience.