Rufus
VentoyRufus
Creates bootable USB drives from ISO files quickly and reliably.
Official source: rufus.ieLast verified: awaiting review · How we check softwareDeveloper: Pete Batard
What is Rufus?
Rufus is a small, free and open-source Windows utility for turning an ISO file into a bootable USB drive. It's most often used to make a Windows or Linux installation stick, and it runs as a single program with no installation.
Rufus writes one image per drive and handles the technical choices for you, such as GPT or MBR partitioning for newer UEFI and older BIOS PCs. When you write a Windows 11 ISO, it offers optional tweaks to Windows setup. Writing an image erases the USB drive, so copy off anything you need first.
Key features
- Windows and Linux bootable USB drives
- Options to customise Windows 11 setup
- UEFI and legacy BIOS support
Who should use Rufus?
- IT professionalMakes Windows and Linux installer USBs quickly, with the right settings for older BIOS and newer UEFI PCs.Build a setup for this
- IT EngineerBuild a setup for this
- Everyday useThe simplest way to make a USB stick for reinstalling or upgrading Windows.Build a setup for this
Supported platforms
| Platform | How to get it |
|---|---|
| WindowsEssential |
Pricing & licence
Open Source Free and open source
Open source: the source code is public, so anyone can inspect it, and it's free to use.
Prices change, so check rufus.ie for current pricing.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Very fast
- Portable, no install needed
Cons
- One ISO per USB drive
Installation
Windows
Windows · Winget
PS> winget install --id Rufus.Rufus --exact --source wingetPackage names were checked against each official package registry, and commands install the same software as the official download. Only run commands you understand.
Alternatives to Rufus
VentoyBest for keeping several ISO files on one USB driveView Alternative
balenaEtcherBest for simple image flashing on Windows, macOS or LinuxView Alternative
Comparisons
RufusVentoyRufus
balenaEtcherRelated guides
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Rufus FAQ
Does Rufus erase my USB drive?
Yes. Writing an image formats the whole drive, so back up any files on it first.
Can Rufus make a Windows 11 USB for a PC without TPM 2.0?
When writing a Windows 11 ISO, Rufus offers options that skip some of Windows setup's hardware checks. Microsoft doesn't support Windows 11 on hardware below its requirements, which can affect updates.
Does Rufus need to be installed?
No. Rufus runs as a single program file. A portable version is also available that keeps its settings next to the program.
Is Rufus free?
Free and open source. It's also open source.
Which platforms does Rufus support?
Rufus is available for Windows. It isn't available for macOS, Linux, Android and iPhone & iPad.
Can I install Rufus with Winget?
Yes. Run "winget install --id Rufus.Rufus --exact --source winget" in PowerShell or Windows Terminal. The package ID was checked against Microsoft's official Winget repository.
What are the alternatives to Rufus?
Common alternatives include Ventoy and balenaEtcher. See the full list of Rufus alternatives for how they differ.
How does Rufus compare with Ventoy and balenaEtcher?
We compare Rufus with Ventoy and balenaEtcher side by side, covering platforms, price, features and which kind of user each suits.
Where can I download Rufus safely?
From the official website, rufus.ie. Aptorise links only to official sources and never hosts installers.