How to Write an ISO Image File to USB Flash With Etcher

If you want to install an operating system from USB or flash storage, you should know that you first have to copy its ISO image file to the media.

It is true that some operating systems have this function built-in, but it is not easy to use and that is where Balena Etcher comes into play. If you are interested in this topic, we invite you to continue reading the publication:

How to Write an ISO Image File to USB Flash With Etcher

BalenaEtcher, a free and user-friendly utility developed by Balena, simplifies the process of writing ISO image files to USB flash drives or SD cards. 

Prerequisites:

Computer with Internet Access (Optional): An internet connection is only necessary if you plan to download the ISO file directly during the flashing process.

USB Flash Drive: Ensure the USB drive has sufficient storage capacity to accommodate the entire ISO image file.

ISO Image File: You'll either need the downloaded ISO file on your computer or a valid URL for online retrieval.

BalenaEtcher: Download and install the appropriate version of Etcher for your operating system from the official website: https://etcher.balena.io/.

Steps:

Download and Install Etcher: Navigate to the BalenaEtcher website and download the installer compatible with your operating system. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.

Prepare the USB Drive: Connect the USB flash drive to your computer. Crucially, using Etcher will erase all data on the USB drive. Ensure you have backed up any important files beforehand.

Launch BalenaEtcher: Open the BalenaEtcher application.

Select Flashing Method: Etcher offers two methods to proceed:

Flash from file: This option is ideal if you already have the ISO file downloaded locally. Click "Flash from file" and browse to the location where the ISO image is stored on your computer.

Flash from URL: If you prefer to download the ISO file directly during the flashing process, select "Flash from URL." Paste the valid URL of the ISO file and provide any required authentication details (username and password) if necessary.

Choose Target Drive: Click "Select target" and carefully select the USB flash drive you intend to make bootable from the list presented. Double-check to confirm you've chosen the correct drive to avoid unintended data loss.

Initiate Flashing: Click the "Flash" button to begin writing the ISO image to the USB drive. Etcher will display the progress on the screen. Important Note: The flashing process can take some time depending on the size of the ISO file. Refrain from interrupting this process, as it can corrupt the bootable USB drive.

Verification (Optional): Once the flashing is complete, Etcher will perform a verification step to ensure the data has been written correctly to the USB drive. This verification process helps guarantee a successful flashing operation.

Safe Ejection: After a successful flash and verification, safely eject the bootable USB drive from your computer. Your bootable USB drive is now ready for use!

Additional Considerations:

Etcher Privacy Settings: By default, Etcher anonymously transmits usage statistics. You can adjust this behavior within the application's settings menu.

Automatic Updates: Etcher is configured to check for updates automatically. This functionality can be disabled in the settings if desired.

ISO File Creation: While the primary focus is on flashing ISO images, Etcher also possesses the capability to create ISO image files for various purposes, such as system image backups or creating backups of entire drives.

With these complete instructions, you will be able to efficiently create bootable USB drives using BalenaEtcher. Remember to select the appropriate update method based on whether you have the ISO file downloaded locally or accessible online.