Introduction

All it takes is a minor error in the Windows Registry or a virus infection, and your operating system can become unbootable. But with a properly configured USB flash drive on hand, you'll always have a compatible replacement no further away than your pocket or keychain. In addition, the flash drive can also provide a secure browser and virus scanner, and lets you take your favorite DVD burning and Office software with you wherever you may go.

All that's needed is a bootable USB Flash drive with at least 256 MB of storage capacity and a Windows Setup CD. Using the program Bart PE Builder (Freeware), you can install Windows XP on the flash drive, along with other software as needed (and as available space permits).

Compact

Bart Lagerweij's free utility, PE Builder, condenses the original setup data for Windows XP into a slender operating system that is ready to run from a CD or a USB flash drive. This compact, portable version of Windows includes all the important system tools for dealing with a PC emergency. You can even add other programs to this collection, such as the media writing tool Nero Burning ROM or an anti-spyware package such as Ad-Aware SE Personal, during the installation process.

Additional Links

Björn Fröhlecke
9 Comments Comment from the forums
  • The link to the HP Flash drive format program is broken - 404 error
    Reply
  • you should try puppy linux on a usb stick, its not windows, but its got its benefits, its free, secure and we,, you'll might enjoy one of the fastest linnux distros about
    Reply
  • http://bootableusb.lichy.ca/
    Reply
  • follow above link, it works!!! only comment, in Step 3 it refers you to step 1, instead it should be referring you to Step 2 command prompt window. Also, there is no need to download their software, i haven't used it to create a boot key, just start with step 2 right away! Best of luck and Thanks for the link post!!!
    Reply
  • looking for a"FREE" Mini Windows XP ISO for install on a Mini Netbook with only 3Gb HD .. PLease Advise
    Reply
  • I have windows xp sp3 iso with I386 folder size = 800mb
    Reply
  • dvijaydev46
    Have you tried SARDU? You can create a multi OS USD drive with that tool. It's not only limited to Wondows, but also can you add Linus, antiviruses and other troubleshooting tools.
    Reply
  • dvijaydev46
    Have you tried SARDU? You can create a multi OS USD drive with that tool. It's not only limited to Wondows, but also can you add Linus, antiviruses and other troubleshooting tools. http://mytechencounters.wordpress.com/2012/02/27/create-a-multi-bootable-usb-drive-with-linux-and-windows/
    Reply
  • gosim05
    Step "Install Windows" the sentence "Open Windows Explorer and erase all files on the USB flash drive."
    DO NOT erase all files, leave BOOT.INI, NTLDR, and NTDETECT. Otherwise peinst.bat won't start the installation.
    Reply