How to Install Windows 11 Pro from USB: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 10, 2025

If you’re using a dual-monitor or multi-monitor setup on Windows 11, you probably know the struggle: you just want a screenshot of one screen, but Windows insists on capturing everything. Frustrating, right? Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through how to screenshot only one monitor in Windows 11 with simple, step-by-step methods. By the end, you’ll be a pro at taking precise screenshots without wasting time cropping out the other screen.

Table of Contents

Why Take a Screenshot of Only One Monitor?

Screenshots are powerful. They help you share information quickly, save visual references, or capture moments on your screen. But when you have multiple monitors, grabbing just the relevant screen is much more efficient. Here’s why:

  • Saves Time – No need to crop later.

  • Keeps Focus – Shows only the screen you want others to see.

  • Looks Professional – Cleaner presentations, documents, or tutorials.

It’s like taking a close-up photo instead of a wide shot—you get exactly what you want.

Different Methods to Screenshot One Monitor in Windows 11

There’s no single “one-size-fits-all” way. Depending on your needs, you can use built-in tools, shortcuts, or third-party apps. Let’s break down the best methods.

Method 1: Use the Print Screen Key (PrtScn) with Active Window Trick

Most keyboards have a Print Screen (PrtScn) key, and Windows pairs it with a few neat shortcuts.

Steps:

  1. Select the window you want on your chosen monitor by clicking on it.

  2. Press Alt + PrtScn.

  3. Windows captures only the active window.

  4. Paste the screenshot into Paint, Word, or any app using Ctrl + V.

Pros:

  • Quick and easy.

  • No need for extra software.

Cons:

  • Only works with the active window, not the full monitor.

Method 2: Use Windows Snipping Tool

The Snipping Tool is Windows’ built-in screenshot app, and it’s more powerful than people realize.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + Shift + S.

  2. Your screen will dim, and a small toolbar will appear.

  3. Choose from:

    • Rectangular Snip – Drag a box around the monitor area.

    • Freeform Snip – Draw a custom shape.

    • Window Snip – Select a specific app window.

    • Full-Screen Snip – Capture one screen at a time.

  4. The screenshot is copied to your clipboard and can be saved.

Best For:

Users who want precision without downloading extra tools.

Method 3: Windows + Print Screen

This method saves screenshots automatically.

Steps:

  1. Go to the monitor you want.

  2. Press Windows + PrtScn.

  3. The screenshot is automatically saved in your Pictures > Screenshots folder.

Note:

This usually captures all monitors, but if you maximize a window on one screen, it can help keep things neat.

Method 4: Using Third-Party Tools (Snagit, Lightshot, Greenshot)

Sometimes built-in tools just aren’t enough. If you frequently screenshot only one monitor, these apps are game-changers.

1. Snagit

  • Paid but extremely powerful.

  • Lets you capture one screen, scrollable windows, or custom regions.

2. Lightshot

  • Free and lightweight.

  • Quick drag-and-snap interface.

3. Greenshot

  • Free and open-source.

  • Perfect for productivity-focused users.

Tips for Cleaner Screenshots on Windows 11

Screenshots can sometimes capture unnecessary clutter. Here’s how to keep things clean:

  • Maximize your window before taking a shot.

  • Close irrelevant apps to reduce distractions.

  • Hide desktop icons temporarily with right-click > View > Show Desktop Icons.

  • Adjust resolution for sharper results.

Think of it like setting the stage before taking a photo—your screenshot will look way better.

How to Screenshot One Monitor in a Dual Setup

Here’s the exact process for dual monitors:

  1. Move your mouse to the monitor you want to capture.

  2. Use Windows + Shift + S to snip that monitor’s area.

  3. If you prefer shortcuts, make the window on that monitor active, then use Alt + PrtScn.

That’s it—you now have a clean screenshot of just one screen.

Troubleshooting Screenshot Issues

Sometimes screenshots don’t go as planned. Here are common issues and fixes:

Issue 1: Screenshots Capture Both Monitors

  • Fix: Use Snipping Tool or a third-party app for precise captures.

Issue 2: Screenshot Looks Blurry

  • Fix: Check display resolution under Settings > Display > Scale & Layout.

Issue 3: Shortcut Keys Not Working

  • Fix: Ensure your keyboard’s Fn (Function) key isn’t blocking shortcuts.

Advanced Tricks for Power Users

If you take lots of screenshots, these tricks will save you hours:

  • Map Snipping Tool to PrtScn Key:
    Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard > Toggle Use the Print Screen button to open screen snipping.

  • Use Clipboard History:
    Enable with Windows + V to access multiple screenshots quickly.

  • Cloud-Sync Screenshots:
    Save directly to OneDrive for automatic backup.

When Should You Use Third-Party Tools?

While Windows tools work fine, third-party apps are worth it if:

  • You need annotations (arrows, highlights, text).

  • You capture lots of screenshots daily.

  • You want scrolling capture (entire webpages, documents).

For everyday users, Windows Snipping Tool is enough. But for creators, educators, and professionals, investing in a tool like Snagit pays off.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to screenshot only one monitor in Windows 11 is all about choosing the right method for your needs. Whether it’s a quick Alt + PrtScn, the built-in Snipping Tool, or advanced third-party software, you now have the tools to grab the perfect shot every time. No more wasting time cropping or editing—just clean, precise screenshots that keep the focus where it belongs.

FAQs

1. How do I make Print Screen only capture one monitor?

Use Alt + PrtScn to capture the active window, or remap your Print Screen button to open the Snipping Tool.

2. Where do my screenshots go in Windows 11?

Screenshots taken with Windows + PrtScn are saved in Pictures > Screenshots by default.

3. Can I take a screenshot of a specific app on one monitor?

Yes! Simply click on the app window to make it active, then press Alt + PrtScn.

4. What’s the easiest way to screenshot one monitor in a dual setup?

Use Windows + Shift + S, then drag and select the area of the monitor you want.

5. Is there a free tool better than Snipping Tool?

Yes—Lightshot and Greenshot are free, user-friendly tools that offer extra features like editing and annotations.

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How to Install Windows 11 Pro from USB: A Step-by-Step Guide

Upgrading or installing a fresh copy of Windows can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve got a USB drive handy, you can easily install Windows 11 Pro on your PC without stress. This guide will walk you through everything—from preparing the USB to completing the installation—so you can get Windows 11 Pro up and running like a pro.

Why Install Windows 11 Pro from USB?

You might be wondering, Why use a USB drive instead of upgrading directly? Well, there are plenty of reasons:

  • Fresh Installation – Clears old clutter, malware, and performance issues.

  • Faster Setup – USB installs are typically quicker than DVDs.

  • Flexibility – Works even if your system doesn’t boot properly.

  • Offline Installation – No need to rely on a stable internet connection.

Think of it like giving your PC a clean slate—it runs smoother, faster, and feels brand new.

What You’ll Need Before Installing Windows 11 Pro

Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure you have all the essentials.

  • A USB Flash Drive (8GB or larger)

  • Windows 11 Pro ISO file (from Microsoft’s official website)

  • Windows Media Creation Tool (for making the bootable USB)

  • A valid Windows 11 Pro license key

  • PC that meets Windows 11 requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, etc.)

Step 1: Check Windows 11 Compatibility

Not all PCs can run Windows 11. Here’s how to check:

  1. Download the PC Health Check Tool from Microsoft.

  2. Run the tool to confirm if your hardware meets requirements.

  3. Make sure TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are enabled in BIOS.

💡 Tip: If your PC doesn’t meet the requirements, you might need to adjust BIOS settings or upgrade certain components.

Step 2: Download Windows 11 Pro ISO or Media Creation Tool

Head to Microsoft’s official website and download the Media Creation Tool.

  • If you want flexibility, grab the ISO file.

  • If you want simplicity, use the Media Creation Tool to create the bootable USB directly.

Step 3: Create a Bootable USB Drive

Now comes the fun part—turning your USB into a Windows installer.

  1. Insert your USB drive into your PC.

  2. Open the Media Creation Tool.

  3. Select Create installation media (USB flash drive).

  4. Choose Windows 11 Pro and your language.

  5. Select your USB drive and let the tool do its magic.

After a few minutes, your USB is ready.

Step 4: Backup Your Important Data

Installing Windows will wipe your drive. Don’t risk losing precious files!

  • Move important documents, photos, and apps to an external hard drive or cloud storage.

  • Double-check that everything you care about is safely backed up.

Step 5: Change Boot Order in BIOS

Now, you’ll need to make sure your computer boots from the USB instead of the hard drive.

  1. Restart your PC.

  2. Enter BIOS (usually by pressing F2, F12, Delete, or Esc depending on your PC).

  3. Locate the Boot Order/Boot Priority section.

  4. Set USB Drive as the first boot option.

  5. Save and exit.

Your PC will now boot directly from the USB.

Step 6: Start the Windows 11 Pro Installation

Once your PC boots from USB, you’ll see the Windows setup screen.

  1. Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences.

  2. Click Install Now.

  3. Enter your Windows 11 Pro license key (or skip if you’ll enter it later).

  4. Choose Custom Installation if you’re doing a clean install.

Step 7: Partition Your Hard Drive

If you want a fresh install, you’ll need to delete existing partitions.

  1. Select the partition where Windows will be installed.

  2. Click Delete (⚠️ this erases all data).

  3. Choose the Unallocated Space and click Next.

Windows will create the necessary partitions automatically.

Step 8: Let Windows Install

Now, sit back and relax. Windows will:

  • Copy files

  • Install features

  • Reboot your PC several times

This usually takes 15–30 minutes, depending on your hardware.

Step 9: Complete Initial Setup

After installation, you’ll see the Windows 11 setup wizard.

  1. Choose your region and keyboard layout.

  2. Connect to Wi-Fi (or skip for now).

  3. Sign in with a Microsoft account (or create a local account).

  4. Select privacy settings and preferences.

Step 10: Activate Windows 11 Pro

Once you’re on the desktop, activate Windows.

  • Go to Settings > System > Activation.

  • Enter your license key.

  • Windows will verify and activate your copy.

Step 11: Install Drivers and Updates

A fresh Windows install often needs driver updates.

  1. Open Windows Update in Settings.

  2. Download and install all updates.

  3. Visit your PC manufacturer’s website for specific drivers (graphics, audio, etc.).

Step 12: Install Your Apps and Restore Data

Now that you’re running Windows 11 Pro, it’s time to:

  • Reinstall essential apps (browsers, office tools, editing software).

  • Restore files from your backup.

  • Customize your settings to your liking.

Tips for Smooth Windows 11 Pro Installation

  • Use a USB 3.0 drive for faster installation.

  • Keep your laptop plugged in during the process.

  • Disconnect unnecessary peripherals (printers, external drives) to avoid errors.

  • Write down your Microsoft account details beforehand.

Common Issues and Fixes

1. USB Not Booting

  • Check BIOS boot order.

  • Try a different USB port.

2. “This PC Can’t Run Windows 11” Error

  • Enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot in BIOS.

3. Installation Stuck at a Percentage

  • Wait—sometimes it takes longer.

  • Restart and retry if it’s frozen for hours.

Advantages of Windows 11 Pro Over Home Edition

  • BitLocker encryption for better security.

  • Remote Desktop access.

  • Hyper-V for virtual machines.

  • Group Policy Editor for advanced system control.

If you’re a power user, Pro is definitely worth it.

Final Thoughts

Installing Windows 11 Pro from USB may sound technical, but once you break it down, it’s pretty straightforward. With just a USB drive, some preparation, and a bit of patience, you can enjoy a clean, smooth, and powerful Windows 11 Pro experience. Whether you’re upgrading or starting fresh, this guide has you covered.

FAQs

1. Do I need a product key to install Windows 11 Pro?

No, you can skip the product key during installation and enter it later, but you’ll need one for activation.

2. Can I install Windows 11 Pro without the internet?

Yes, you can do an offline installation and set up a local account.

3. How much space does Windows 11 Pro require?

At least 64GB of storage, though more is recommended for smooth performance.

4. Can I upgrade from Windows 11 Home to Pro using USB?

Yes, but you’ll need a valid Windows 11 Pro license.

5. What’s the minimum RAM required for Windows 11 Pro?

4GB is the minimum, but 8GB or more is recommended for better performance.

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