Windows 7 USB Install

[Kopesetic]

Just a quick question...

I notice that a lot of people are not using optical drives in new builds. Is this because USB installs are now the norm for OS installations? Also, I have read some guides on how-to install Windows 7 from a USB and some seem touch and go while others just look complicated. I have always used DVDs for OS installs and that is the only thing I can imagine using an optical drive for so would it be pointless to get a DVD Burner for my new build?

 

[Noz_God]

Just get an external drive so you can use it when you want. I have never done a usb install

 

[Cru]

I do only use USB
just create a bootable thumb drive, choose to boot from it and then the usual stuff
nothing special

 

[Kopesetic]

Just get an external drive so you can use it when you want. I have never done a usb install

I'm looking to cut costs for the build budget. If I were to get an optical drive at all it will be internal.

 

[seumasbeathan]

Just use the Windows 7 USB/DVD tool and it couldnt be an easier

 

[Snortan]

As above. Installing from a USB drive is exactly the same, no extra steps needed, you just boot from USB.

 

[Kopesetic]

Ok, thanks for the responses guys. Hopefully this will be the week the IRS gets my refund out so I can get the new build parts ordered.

 

[FTLN]

Just follow one of the guides over on youtube, i do it all the time -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpLwMUtUfok

 

[airdeano]

USB 2.0 is much faster than SATA I. plus no real extra hardware to wire in.
been using USB for 2-3yr for OS installs. wouldnt ever go back to disc media.