Note that you must use like versions of Windows 7 and SP1 for this process.
Having all of your most commonly installed programs and drivers available on the same drive as the OS installer is another major timesaver. I recommend using a higher-capacity USB flash drive to leave room for other installers, drivers, or applications, such as your favorite antimalware utility, graphics card drivers, or Web browser. You need a 4GB (or preferably larger) USB flash drive, an original Windows 7 installation disc, the Windows 7 SP1 stand-alone installer, and a freeware utility called RT Se7en Lite (also available in a 64-bit version), which gives users the ability to customize the Windows 7 installer files. Updating the OS Imageįirst you have to assemble your tools. With a slipstreamed OS installer and a properly prepared USB flash drive, you can perform a clean, up-to-date Windows 7 installation in only a few minutes.
Instal windows 7 with universal usb installer how to#
In addition to detailing the slipstreaming process for Windows 7 SP1 here, we’re going to add another timesaving wrinkle and explain how to install the OS from a USB flash drive, which is much faster than using an installation DVD. Luckily, some freeware tools can automate much of the process and make it much easier for the average PC user to create a custom Windows 7 installer with the latest service pack integrated into the OS. Although Microsoft offers enterprise tools to help IT departments create their own custom Windows 7 installation images, the process for end users is much more complex and convoluted than it was with older versions of Windows.