Create a Bootable Windows Image with Your Android Phone

If your PC has crashed and you have no other computer at hand, you can still create a bootable Windows image using your Android phone. While this process may seem challenging, it's entirely possible with the right tools and steps. This guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you can create a bootable USB drive from your Android device.

Requirements

Android Phone with sufficient storage USB OTG Cable (if your phone supports it) USB Flash Drive for the bootable image Windows ISO File that can be downloaded via your phone

Apps Required

EtchDroid - An app for creating bootable USB drives without root access. DriveDroid - Similar to EtchDroid, but may require root access (only necessary if your phone does not support OTG natively)

Steps to Create a Bootable Windows Image

Step 1: Download the Windows ISO

Go to the official Microsoft Windows download page via your phone's browser and select the appropriate version of Windows. Download the ISO file directly to your phone's storage.

Step 2: Install Necessary Apps

You’ll need apps to create the bootable USB drive. For Android devices, choose between EtchDroid or DriveDroid. These can be found in the Google Play Store.

Step 3: Prepare the USB Drive

Connect the USB flash drive to your Android phone using the USB OTG cable. Depending on your device, ensure it supports USB OTG.

Open the app you installed (e.g., EtchDroid). Select the option to create a bootable USB drive. Choose the downloaded Windows ISO file from your phone's storage. Follow the prompts to format and write the ISO to the USB drive.

Note: Formatting will erase all data on the USB drive, so ensure there's nothing important on it.

Step 4: Create the Bootable USB

In the app, confirm the settings, and start the process. This may take some time, depending on the size of the ISO and the speed of your USB drive.

Step 5: Boot from the USB Drive

Once complete, safely disconnect the USB drive from your phone. Insert the USB drive into your crashed PC. Power on the PC and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F12, or DEL during boot). Change the boot order to boot from the USB drive first. Save the changes and exit the BIOS.

Troubleshooting

If your phone does not recognize the USB drive, ensure that the drive is formatted to FAT32. Check if your Android phone supports USB OTG. Not all devices do.

Conclusion

Creating a bootable Windows image using your Android phone can be a lifesaver when you find yourself in a pinch without access to a computer. With the right tools and steps, you can still get your PC up and running.