I never liked Hirens, it feels like someone tossed everything in it just for the sake of it, a lot of these tools can be done by a single application instead, and a lot of apps are pretty outdated compared to more modern (free) applications that do exactly the same, and often more. Heck, why would I even need something like Total Commander, I believe the last time I tried it was in the early '90's. To be honest, as an IT guy since '87 I've always done fine with just a limited set of tools.
@MichaelDomer Hirens has saved my client data more times than I care to count over the last 30+ years. It's not for everyone, but for some people, it is a lifesaver if they didn't know it exists
@@MichaelDomergoing back to the swiss army knife comparison, it might include a bottle or cork opener. Even if you don't drink, the other tools are still useful.
Tip: Instead of choosing to make a USB, I usually download the Windows ISO. That way I can use something like Rufus to make multiple keys without having to download it every time. 8GB thumb drives are cheap enough now, so I make more than one key because, as many of you, I am the designated tech guy in the family, and I find it useful to leave one of these Windows keys at each location where I might be expected to need it. That way, when they go, _"oh, as long as you're in the neighborhood, would you mind taking a look at my laptop... It hasn't booted in weeks!"_ , I'll be ready for them!
glad someone else said this too. i didnt say as i have just created the iso images, but havent flashed them to a drive. didnt want to preach without practise.
@@sam-by6goDownloading the ISO file instead of creating the USB installation media directly from the Microsoft site is one if the options offered. Rufus is a little program that takes the ISO file that you have just obtained and puts it onto a USB memory stick and makes it bootable... ie: makes it so you can install Windows from that stick. Basically it is the same, but this way you have the ISO already downloaded and do not need to waste time doing that part again if you want more than one key.
Good stuff. I am now a subscriber. I always like learning new things and these certainly are helpful. Thanks. Oh, one more thing: Thank you, thank you for not playing any music while you are talking to us. I find more and more YT hosts feel playing music during their narration is a good thing. It is not.
I'm not a certified A+ repair man. I'm just the guy everyone calls when their computers misbehave. I love having Hirens and Medi-cat. They are such great tools. Thank you very much.
LOL me too. I have 3 USB drives I carry with me with my keys so I can fix almost any computer on the go. Snappy driver with some portable apps, Gandalf redstone (similar to Hirens), and an AIO installation of windows.
Thanks a lot for the update. I saw your old video and when i checked the Hirens page things did'nt match but i went back to your channel and found the update which was superhelpful. Cheers from Sweden!
Can’t believe this video was posted today! I work at a small repair shop, and have been troubleshooting a device all day. Hiren’s Boot is exactly the kind of Swiss Army knife I’m looking for. I can’t thank you enough for sharing. Rock on man! 🤘
@makingpeopleangryforfun well, no. There is tons of advanced stuff on RUclips. My channel, however, is for novice users who don't know what they don't know. That's why I made this video. Thanks for your comment.
I'm a total novice, some would call me a dummy ! I've been watching your vids for a while now and decided to have a go and upgrade my HP Laptop. Upgraded the RAM to 16Gb and now I'm attempting the HDD to SSD but I mistakenly bought the wrong size SSD and was unable to clone to it. I'm going to install it anyway so I will have to install a clean version of Windows. My question is do I have to make both of these usb sticks in order to boot my PC ? Your videos have given me the encouragement to do this stuff. I'm almost 60yrs of age and never had any training doing this so thanks Scott.
I did not prepare these 2 things and one day my computer could not boot, I didn't know what to do at all, it was my own fault, now after that painful experience I spent some time studying these information on internet in case this happen again I will know how to do, thanks for your video
Thank you. Also, thank you for the link for the "decent and inexpensive flash drives with good ratings." They were so cheap, I just ordered two packs (one for myself and one as a gift). I am one of the .9's in your 95.9K Subscribers now :)
I just found your channel and subscribed as you might be able to teach me something I do not know, Im a self taught geek who helps fix peoples pc remotely or in person and you are not wrong about having bootable recovery USB drives.. I keep an updated version of Windows Media Creation with the latest version of Windows 10 and I have used Hiren's Boot CD and Knoppix, my goto is Win PE has a lot of recovery tools on and help me get that PC fixed. will be checking out your other videos keep them coming.
I also know the hirens name as "Highrens" and was using this tool when it was version 8/9. Now i am using version 15.2 DVD and on a usb drive (GRUB/syslinux) Thank you for the video too. There was never a worry on my side for losing data as i use a 321 backup:3x backup 1 on a cloud, 1 on a local disk mounted and 1 on a local disk unmounted :-) And i use Total commander to sync two with a click
Thanks for taking the time to make these videos. 🤓🖒 This is a God send. I know some folks that had issues with their PC's, and this video helped fix the issues. Thanks and keep up the good work 🤓🖒
I have a newer HP that blue screened months ago and I’ve had the thumb drives ready but I’m finally doing this (from another laptop) as I type. Fingers crossed 🤞 and ty! I’ve always been the tech gal in the fam so it’ll be a great tool
I appreciate how Scott tries to respond to all the comments. The videos ain`t bad either😏. I followed your ventoy video since i found it before seeing this one.
Love this channel. I just bought a banging PC, and it's my first. I've been reaching and learning about everything can. I've never done this, and I'm hoping this will be smooth to do.
Glad to hear it! I had tons of comments about the "new" way that Hirens works now so I had to update the previous version of the video. Thx for your support 💪
Thanks, bro! You might wanna add the Windows ISO file to that list. It's great for doing a system refresh. It's kinda like a reset, where it brings back the main programming, though keeps your files and apps. Usually a good fix for Defender issues.
Well, I only have about 500 old flash drives laying around the house LOL. Thanks for the tips. You are quite right... most people don't think about doing this until their computer croaks. Thank you!
@@AskYourComputerGuy And of course, I get a lot of looks when I tell people I use two Time Machine back up drives on all my Macs. With almost everything, I abide by the 3=2 and 2=1 and 1=0 equation.
1:52 fairly certain you can spare yourself the effort of formatting the drive - the Media Creator will format it anyways. 6:42 only Rufus? No mention of/compatibility with Ventoy? I like Ventoy better because I can just chuck whatever ISOs I could/would ever use/need.
Did that on purpose. Gave me a chance to reiterate that the drive will be wiped (big complaint from the last video), but you're not wrong LOL. And yes, Rufus, only because that's the "new" way to download Hirens (based on my now-updated instructions from the last video. I agree Ventoy is better, and I made a separate video for that. This was just to correct the old video instructions 👍
Love this channel. I created a usb boot disk from your instructions in the videos which you'd done previously. And it came in super handy today when I had to wipe a laptop clean to reinstall Windows. Worked like a charm! Thank you!!! ❤
I completed the first USB Drive successfully. On the second, I downloaded the ISO file, went to the USB Boot and clicked on that, I downloaded the Rufis file, then it all went to hell after that. I clicked on the downloaded Rufis program and the drive property screen came up, but had no Device Label and would not let me put one in, I selected the HDCB iso file, but some other options were missing, so I stopped after that. Could not complete installation. I also tried ALT-E in the process and that did not work. I'm not an expert on computers, they are just a tool for me, I don't understand half this stuff.
With respect, I am inclined to disagree. He used to talk at a moderate pace but of late (late 2023/ early 2024) he has been noticeably faster, as if nlow in a hurry. It can make matters all the more difficult when trying to follow him and the complexities of the technology. Making (many) screenshots, in addition to written notes, helps. Otherwise, miss something and you might pay a heavy price, technology being so unforgiving.
Does this work after trying to clone my OS to another ssd using clonezilla?? I tried to clone but then my screen just bluescreens and it never boots windows! I go into bios and go into boot manager and the (boot manager) *sss name* disappeared, now its just the *ssd name* and the only option in the blue screen is to troubleshoot… idk if windows is in that drive after cloning it and the boot manager didint clone into it, im so lost right now 😭😭
The button that says SELECT, looks like a dropdown that then let's you choose SELECT or DOWNLOAD. Actually, it also works as a button to choose the hiren's iso file that you downloaded before this step. Just click on the word SELECT to open up the window where you can choose the iso file. The GPT option should then appear in the Partition scheme
Are you planning to upload a video about "Medicat" specifically? I think you mentioned it in your previous video. I'm asking because there isn't a video about it yet. It could be a good idea for content if you're considering it.
Would it be possible to make a dedicated video about Hiren's Boot Cd and what tools are inside of the program and what scenarios to use them in and what each of the tools do and when to actually use Hiren's Boot CD? for a non-tech savvy person like myself?
Hahaha... 2 hrs too late,,LOL, I just finished making the two USB sticks from your earlier video, and also left a comment that rufus was now required... I had Rufus already. Thanks for the update. Your video from 3 months ago just appeared in my feed.
I had to manually insert the ISO into Rufus. Now, Rufus will not allow : Device, partition scheme, target system, file system, or cluster size manipulation after dragging the ISO in. All of the drop downs are grayed out and contain nothing. Now what? Win10 home; version22H2
I am making this hirens USB drive right now. Play many things of All quickly. It is up to 4.5.2180 and there is no mention in the instructions of choosing anything other than MBR as a partition scheme particularly not mentioning any special setting windows 11
I think you should make a video comparing Hirens boot utility media vs Medicat boot utility media Also, show how both can be put on a single usb using Ventoy along with a windows 10 /11 boot image
True, but that's for another video. Having the tools gives someone options and opportunities to ask "ok now what". That's where I and others can assist
It doesn't have to be. You can use ventoy. With ventoy u can create a flash drive that can hold all the necessary ISO files to use. When u plug the drive in to boot,u just pick the ISO file u want and it will load. Been using ventoy for yrs. Its fantastic.
@CelestialDeathscythe agreed! Ventoy is a great option as well The LAST flash drive you will ever need! Ventoy FULL walk-thru and review! ruclips.net/video/MIT3w-EPA9M/видео.html
Oh ok so u did it. I didn't realize it. RUclips just put this video in a compilation playlists and i had it on in the background. Keep up the good work. U earn a sub from me@@AskYourComputerGuy
following your directions to the tee and none of those screens pop up. **** I was able to get the first USB disck to work and I loaded the rufus file and hiern file. When I launched rufus it doesn't have anything in the first box to select (ie the drive) Im stuck at this point
Looks like Rufus has a new update, 4.5 now. Running Windows 10 pro, still coming up with "this app unable to run on this PC, check publisher for previous versions". Trying to boot the Hirens flash drive. Thanks
12:54 use OEM recovery disk to create factory image with all drivers & preloaded software included awesome. only this was new to me, and important enough to be liked just for this lol.
I'd have to recommend Ventoy for creating my bookable media, even if it is just for Windows installers. Ventoy allows you to put as many bootable isos as you can fit on the drive as you want and select which one to boot from. That way if you decide to update the image you can just copy the current iso to the drive instead of recreating the entire drive. Also since you can add any bootable iso, why not just copy the iso for Hiren's Boot CD onto Ventoy as well and have it on one drive. I definitely recommend Medicat. If Hiren's was a swiss army knife, then Medicat is a digital combat. While it is by no means small (~20GB larger than Hiren's) the extensive collection of tools it offers at times multiple ways to accomplish the same task tackling it differently though. This allows each user the flexibility to choose the tool that matches their work flow best. If I had to choose one weapon to go into the trenches with it would be Medicat.
I agree! x2 The LAST flash drive you will ever need! Ventoy FULL walk-thru and review! ruclips.net/video/MIT3w-EPA9M/видео.html And a Medicat full walk-through is in the works!
I've been using Windows since XP and my system never broke down, like, never really... guess I'm just lucky or too paranoid! Still going to download Hirens just in case!
It's not one or the other. Hirens is a great troubleshooting utility, Ventoy is a utility to store multiple ISO images on one drive. You can store Hirens, Windows installer, Linux, pretty much any ISO you can find *on* the Ventoy drive. Ventoy doesn't *do* anything by itself. Hope that explains it better 👍
Hey there Scott! Thanks for the 2024 update. Always enjoy your content. A quick question, so must it be 2 USB drives? As I have Ventoy on mine. Is that not the way to go anymore? Thanks.
HELP! At 7:39...The Hirens does not appear in Boot selection. It remains "Disk or ISO image". The drop down list has several choices, but none for HBCD_PE_x64. And other boxes are not selectable?
Now I have a USB with that Hiren's thing, but there are just some folders in there, with many links, but what can I use that for? What I saw in your Hirens, there were some troubleshooting links, like eg. diagnostic which is not what I have, but that's probably me who has something wrong, even though I followed your descriptions step by step.
If you've got them on Ventoy, you're good. This was an update for people who wanted separate standalone discs, because the setup process is completely different now. You're good to go 👍
Have opened Rufus 4.6. Am at the 7:34 mark of this video; all is well. Clicked ALT-E etc.. I click on the HBCD_PE_x64.iso file I downloaded and the Rufus display doesn't reflect the HBCD_PE_x64.iso info in the boot selection window, it's Disk or ISO image (please select) or MS-DOS or FreeDOS no matter what I do. Obviously key button is grayed out so can't proceed. Any thoughts as to resolution? Believe I've done everything in the proper sequence to this point.
I seem to recall running into this the first time. Hit CTRL-E and was expecting something to happen. It didn't. Ran it again and paid closer attention to what options I had and it seemed to work. So I'd recommend trying again 🤷♂️
@@AskYourComputerGuy Thank you for your reply. Am certainly not finding fault with you or your video, just trying to succeed with this process. I attempted this several times yesterday; verified 'Dual UEFI mode is enabled' in each case BEFORE single clicking on the HBCD_PE_x64.iso in my downloads folder and received the results described in my first comment above; e.g. nothing changes in the Rufus display selection box. Today I repeated your video steps multiple times and still not seeing same results as in your video reflecting HBCD_PE_x64.iso in the Rufus selection window. Perhaps there is some option I have set preventing this from working? Have Windows 10 Pro installed on August 14, 2020, OS Build 19045.5247. 64 bit, 16GB Ram.
First: The steps for Windows 11 installation media is a little different. Second: I'm curious if you bought the Windows installation flash drive from a store. Is this Installation media flash drive necessary? Third: When creating the file in Rufus for (Windows 11) and you change to GPT, the Target System changes from BIOS or UEFI to, UEFI (non CSM) Fourth: Is this compatible with Laptop and Desktop?
I still didn't get the tools. It still opens windows 11. None of the actions I took in windows 11 transferred back to my working version of windows 10, even though I could browse my w10 files and play mp3's, mp4's and read text files from the windows 10 file system. - AND, somehow, my windows clock MYSTERIOUSLY jumped ahead by 6 hours.
You made a Ventoy video a few months ago which I really appreciated but I'm confused as to why this video is instructing us to make separate usb drives and not mentioning Ventoy
Great question - some people prefer everything on one drive, in which case Ventoy is fantastic. My personal preference is to have multiple points of failure (for what I do all day), in which case having multiple drives makes more sense. Neither is better than the other, the most important part is what works best for you! Stay tuned for video response on Friday - great question :)
MBR partition only support 2tb of storage..GPT is unlimited storage capacity. Pressing -“Alt+E” doesn’t make any special trick but it only toggles partition scheme from GPT to MBR.
@@AskYourComputerGuy Watched and learned I've been doing the right thing making recovery USBs. Think I'll also keep updated clone NVMEs as my first option in case of hw issues too. Thank you again, awesome channel!
better option: easy2boot - put all the OS installer ISO's as well as the toolkit ISO's on one drive and allow Easy to boot to multiboot everything. Bonus, get macrium reflect free PE on the drive as well, and clone / image drives as well. A 2tb M.2 drive in a usb enclosure makes a very fast and reliable USB toolkit drive with tons of space.
I recently discovered that Dell computers seem to have RAID enabled by default even on single drive systems (which causes the SSD to not be detected by the windows installer)
I opened Rufus and activated the Alt-E thing for Dual UEFI/BIOS, it saw my drive, but wouldn't let me select any .iso - (OOPS ! -This time it worked. you moved the mouse so fast that I didn't get the selection process for the iso. It might be a good idea to say something like "double click on the word select. I tried clicking on the down-arrow by the word select and it never worked.") I didn't get as many tools as you did in the video.
It's exceptional. Just load ventoy onto your flash drive, copy your ISO files onto the drive and u are good. When u need to boot from the ventoy drive u can pick the ISO file list u want and run it. No need for 2 or more flash drives for each ISO file. @@yasirarafat9279
As of windows 10 my computer did never crash or gave me bluescreen , The IHrens cd i used way back , but never need it anymore, windows can repair itself
7:42 You said I have a choice of MBR or GPT and that, if I have Windows 11, I need to choose GPT. I will be needing this disk for two systems, my Windows 11 Pro and my wife's Windows 10 (can't remember if Pro or not). Is it not possible to make a disk to support both systems? If it is possible, which should I choose at this point, MBR or GPT?
I am always learning new stuff from these videos. A quick question though. Am I right in thinking that if I do, say a monthly clone of my hard drive, and do regular backups of my important files to an external storage device, then I should never really have any need for the tools in this video? (I take for granted that I do not clone a faulty hard drive as that would of course be a bit of a show stopper).
So this does work if all else fails, cuz my PC has been on blue screen for the past couple of days. I could never log in even with all the methods u mentioned in a previous video. Also do I use the Hirens drive for blue screen or the windows media installation drive?
It's Rufus 4.6.2208 now and when I clicked start. I got an error message saying something like the boot has a revocable license and to find another ISO from a legitimate source. I didn't print screen this is not verbatim. thank you.
I agree! For certain use cases, it absolutely is better. That's why Imsde this: The LAST flash drive you will ever need! Ventoy FULL walk-thru and review! ruclips.net/video/MIT3w-EPA9M/видео.html
I just got my usb drives delivered today and was just about to make my boot drives with the help of your older video when I happened across this video first. Thank you.
Hi, thanks for the great video. I have been subscribed for a few months now and have learned a hell of a lot. One question I have always wondered, are paid versions of antivirus tools much better than their free counterparts? While I don't mind paying to keep my PC secure, I think the best price is always free. I'm Scottish so that should tell you all you need to know haha
Great question! It depends on your needs. If you are an "average" Windows user, maybe do the same 5-6 things every day and not much else, Windows Defender, Avast Free etc should be more than enough 👍
Great video! Please explain where a "windows recovery" drive fits in this set of tools. I have already created the windows recovery drive from my PC, do I still need the windows installation USB drive also?? or are they the same?
The recovery drive is the same as this, except it has all your existing drivers and pre-loaded software. I'd still create the Hirens, but you don't need the Windows installer now :)
Rufus is different for me, I did the target system (BIOS or UEFI), now I click GPT - "Target System" changes to "UEFI (non CSM)" ... The only way to keep the Target System to BIOS or UEFI is to choose MBR
I'll have to watch this video again because I'm lost watching it once. I'm not a computer whiz. I'm getting a new Dell XPS 8960 Windows 11 PC in a couple of weeks and I got 3 SanDisk 32 GB flash drives as per your previous video for recovery drives and a system repair image on Amazon. After getting those two things done, my next adjustment will be to make Windows 11 look like Windows 7 as much as possible. I did the same with Windows 10 and it's a mix of both. I didn't like those squares on Windows 10's startup image, and I certainly don't like that large Windows 11 menu in the middle of the screen or that blue colored toilet paper image in the background.
My GAWWDDDD does it ever ends? I'm not techie and still run 8.1 but it's so clunkie right now. Many websites don't even open while on Firefox. Other accounts won't open with Edge. So far everything still works on Chrome but youtube freezes up constantly so I think I won't have a choice to go up to 10 or 11 very soon. The only thing I know how to do is log in to Microsoft store
Than ks for the video, I am using 2 32GB usb sticks for my installer usbs, making the hirens one as i type this. I made a bootable 4gb dvd-r from the image earlier as my external usb 3 disc burner still functions...
been using hirens for almost 30 yrs and it has never DISSAPOINTED!
Agreed! 💪
I never liked Hirens, it feels like someone tossed everything in it just for the sake of it, a lot of these tools can be done by a single application instead, and a lot of apps are pretty outdated compared to more modern (free) applications that do exactly the same, and often more. Heck, why would I even need something like Total Commander, I believe the last time I tried it was in the early '90's. To be honest, as an IT guy since '87 I've always done fine with just a limited set of tools.
@MichaelDomer Hirens has saved my client data more times than I care to count over the last 30+ years. It's not for everyone, but for some people, it is a lifesaver if they didn't know it exists
@@MichaelDomergoing back to the swiss army knife comparison, it might include a bottle or cork opener. Even if you don't drink, the other tools are still useful.
Tip: Instead of choosing to make a USB, I usually download the Windows ISO. That way I can use something like Rufus to make multiple keys without having to download it every time. 8GB thumb drives are cheap enough now, so I make more than one key because, as many of you, I am the designated tech guy in the family, and I find it useful to leave one of these Windows keys at each location where I might be expected to need it. That way, when they go, _"oh, as long as you're in the neighborhood, would you mind taking a look at my laptop... It hasn't booted in weeks!"_ , I'll be ready for them!
glad someone else said this too.
i didnt say as i have just created the iso images, but havent flashed them to a drive.
didnt want to preach without practise.
how do you do that? now could you explain what rufus does?
@@sam-by6goDownloading the ISO file instead of creating the USB installation media directly from the Microsoft site is one if the options offered.
Rufus is a little program that takes the ISO file that you have just obtained and puts it onto a USB memory stick and makes it bootable... ie: makes it so you can install Windows from that stick.
Basically it is the same, but this way you have the ISO already downloaded and do not need to waste time doing that part again if you want more than one key.
@@robertcartier5088 thank you.
@@sam-by6go 👍
Good stuff. I am now a subscriber. I always like learning new things and these certainly are helpful. Thanks.
Oh, one more thing: Thank you, thank you for not playing any music while you are talking to us. I find more and more YT hosts feel playing music during their narration is a good thing. It is not.
I try to avoid music as mm much as possible. Sometimes.aybe during a "just watch" moment, but not while I'm talking 👍
I'm not a certified A+ repair man. I'm just the guy everyone calls when their computers misbehave. I love having Hirens and Medi-cat. They are such great tools. Thank you very much.
LOL me too. I have 3 USB drives I carry with me with my keys so I can fix almost any computer on the go. Snappy driver with some portable apps, Gandalf redstone (similar to Hirens), and an AIO installation of windows.
@johnwesley256 I feel ya!
@@johnwesley256
> " I have 3 USB drives I carry with me with my keys so I can fix almost any computer on the go."
Overkill.
factory reset, that will be $500 dollars please
@juanroldan4379 I used to dread being 'that guy (girl)'. And Everyone thought I could work magic. NOT. I just knew a little more than they did.
Thanks a lot for the update. I saw your old video and when i checked the Hirens page things did'nt match but i went back to your channel and found the update which was superhelpful. Cheers from Sweden!
This might help!
www.anyrecover.com/storage-device-tips/usb-access-denied/
Can’t believe this video was posted today! I work at a small repair shop, and have been troubleshooting a device all day. Hiren’s Boot is exactly the kind of Swiss Army knife I’m looking for. I can’t thank you enough for sharing.
Rock on man! 🤘
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed it! 💪
hirens boot cd has been around for ever youtube is for people who dont know how to find stuff themselves
@@makingpeopleangryforfunnice!
@makingpeopleangryforfun well, no. There is tons of advanced stuff on RUclips. My channel, however, is for novice users who don't know what they don't know. That's why I made this video. Thanks for your comment.
I'm a total novice, some would call me a dummy ! I've been watching your vids for a while now and decided to have a go and upgrade my HP Laptop. Upgraded the RAM to 16Gb and now I'm attempting the HDD to SSD but I mistakenly bought the wrong size SSD and was unable to clone to it. I'm going to install it anyway so I will have to install a clean version of Windows. My question is do I have to make both of these usb sticks in order to boot my PC ? Your videos have given me the encouragement to do this stuff. I'm almost 60yrs of age and never had any training doing this so thanks Scott.
I did not prepare these 2 things and one day my computer could not boot, I didn't know what to do at all, it was my own fault, now after that painful experience I spent some time studying these information on internet in case this happen again I will know how to do, thanks for your video
You’re welcome!
😊Thanks for the detailed walk through!
Thanks for the support! Glad the video helped you 👍
Thank you. Also, thank you for the link for the "decent and inexpensive flash drives with good ratings." They were so cheap, I just ordered two packs (one for myself and one as a gift). I am one of the .9's in your 95.9K Subscribers now :)
Awesome! Glad I could help you out 👍
Where is this list
In UK those particular usb sticks are $75 ... Thankfully other brands are available! 😂
I just found your channel and subscribed as you might be able to teach me something I do not know, Im a self taught geek who helps fix peoples pc remotely or in person and you are not wrong about having bootable recovery USB drives.. I keep an updated version of Windows Media Creation with the latest version of Windows 10 and I have used Hiren's Boot CD and Knoppix, my goto is Win PE has a lot of recovery tools on and help me get that PC fixed. will be checking out your other videos keep them coming.
👍💪❤️
Why not using Ventoy anymore? Like the previous video you make. (And put it all in one drive?)
I was wondering the same thing. I thought Ventoy was meant to be the best software to have.
@@waynesharp1690 Yeah, i agree on ventoy
@waynesharp1690 depends on the end user. Some people prefer separate drives, some prefer Ventoy. Some hate Ventoy because of the secure boot issues
Lol this dude also has ventoy on one of the drive
Yumi now includes Ventoy!
I do subscribe to this channel, and he is a wonderful guy who helps people with his knowledge, and I appreciate it.
Thanks! I appreciate that so much! 👍
I also know the hirens name as "Highrens" and was using this tool when it was version 8/9. Now i am using version 15.2 DVD and on a usb drive (GRUB/syslinux) Thank you for the video too. There was never a worry on my side for losing data as i use a 321 backup:3x backup 1 on a cloud, 1 on a local disk mounted and 1 on a local disk unmounted :-) And i use Total commander to sync two with a click
Thanks for taking the time to make these videos. 🤓🖒 This is a God send. I know some folks that had issues with their PC's, and this video helped fix the issues. Thanks and keep up the good work 🤓🖒
Thank you, much appreciated! 👍
I have a newer HP that blue screened months ago and I’ve had the thumb drives ready but I’m finally doing this (from another laptop) as I type. Fingers crossed 🤞 and ty! I’ve always been the tech gal in the fam so it’ll be a great tool
I appreciate how Scott tries to respond to all the comments. The videos ain`t bad either😏. I followed your ventoy video since i found it before seeing this one.
Thank you, I appreciate the support 👍
You are a very good teacher... So many do not have a clue on how to teach or convey instructions.. Thank you
Thank you ❤️
I stumbled on Hirens from one of your videos. It is a great utility.
It really is!
Great video, and explanation. I was one of those hu got confused. All clear now.
That's why I had to make the video. Thanks!
Love this channel. I just bought a banging PC, and it's my first. I've been reaching and learning about everything can. I've never done this, and I'm hoping this will be smooth to do.
Welcome aboard! 👍
I have both already, but thanks for the awesome video!! I actually just made those 2 USBs last week. :)
Glad to hear it! I had tons of comments about the "new" way that Hirens works now so I had to update the previous version of the video. Thx for your support 💪
You are so close to 100k. I am so happy for you ❤. Old time subscriber 😊
Thank you so much!!
Thanks, bro! You might wanna add the Windows ISO file to that list. It's great for doing a system refresh. It's kinda like a reset, where it brings back the main programming, though keeps your files and apps. Usually a good fix for Defender issues.
Explain how do I create this
The video walks you through it, step by step 👍
Well, I only have about 500 old flash drives laying around the house LOL. Thanks for the tips. You are quite right... most people don't think about doing this until their computer croaks. Thank you!
Exactly!
@@AskYourComputerGuy And of course, I get a lot of looks when I tell people I use two Time Machine back up drives on all my Macs. With almost everything, I abide by the 3=2 and 2=1 and 1=0 equation.
1:52 fairly certain you can spare yourself the effort of formatting the drive - the Media Creator will format it anyways.
6:42 only Rufus? No mention of/compatibility with Ventoy?
I like Ventoy better because I can just chuck whatever ISOs I could/would ever use/need.
Did that on purpose. Gave me a chance to reiterate that the drive will be wiped (big complaint from the last video), but you're not wrong LOL. And yes, Rufus, only because that's the "new" way to download Hirens (based on my now-updated instructions from the last video. I agree Ventoy is better, and I made a separate video for that. This was just to correct the old video instructions 👍
Love this channel. I created a usb boot disk from your instructions in the videos which you'd done previously. And it came in super handy today when I had to wipe a laptop clean to reinstall Windows. Worked like a charm! Thank you!!! ❤
Boom! 🔥
@@AskYourComputerGuy - much appreciated Scott! 😊
I completed the first USB Drive successfully. On the second, I downloaded the ISO file, went to the USB Boot and clicked on that, I downloaded the Rufis file, then it all went to hell after that. I clicked on the downloaded Rufis program and the drive property screen came up, but had no Device Label and would not let me put one in, I selected the HDCB iso file, but some other options were missing, so I stopped after that. Could not complete installation. I also tried ALT-E in the process and that did not work. I'm not an expert on computers, they are just a tool for me, I don't understand half this stuff.
Were you able to sort it out?
Thank you. I'm tired of companies encouraging the buying of things unnecessary.
Well, I do recommend products occasionally, but nothing I don't personally use or have used before 👍
I like how you explain things slowly because not everybody is a pc expert.
I try 👍
With respect, I am inclined to disagree. He used to talk at a moderate pace but of late (late 2023/ early 2024) he has been noticeably faster, as if nlow in a hurry. It can make matters all the more difficult when trying to follow him and the complexities of the technology. Making (many) screenshots, in addition to written notes, helps. Otherwise, miss something and you might pay a heavy price, technology being so unforgiving.
Thanks for the update! I now have both drives.
Boom! Love it
Does this work after trying to clone my OS to another ssd using clonezilla?? I tried to clone but then my screen just bluescreens and it never boots windows! I go into bios and go into boot manager and the (boot manager) *sss name* disappeared, now its just the *ssd name* and the only option in the blue screen is to troubleshoot… idk if windows is in that drive after cloning it and the boot manager didint clone into it, im so lost right now 😭😭
The button that says SELECT, looks like a dropdown that then let's you choose SELECT or DOWNLOAD. Actually, it also works as a button to choose the hiren's iso file that you downloaded before this step. Just click on the word SELECT to open up the window where you can choose the iso file. The GPT option should then appear in the Partition scheme
Did you hit CTRL-E?
On every Pc tool site there is always the fake download ad. I wonder how people have clicked that by mistake. 6:22
Is the unetbootin similar to rufus?
Unfortunately, some people click before looking. That's how I stay in business 🤷♂️
Are you planning to upload a video about "Medicat" specifically? I think you mentioned it in your previous video. I'm asking because there isn't a video about it yet. It could be a good idea for content if you're considering it.
Would it be possible to make a dedicated video about Hiren's Boot Cd and what tools are inside of the program and what scenarios to use them in and what each of the tools do and when to actually use Hiren's Boot CD? for a non-tech savvy person like myself?
it is actually been on my drawing board for a while. I probably should get on that!
Hahaha... 2 hrs too late,,LOL, I just finished making the two USB sticks from your earlier video, and also left a comment that rufus was now required... I had Rufus already. Thanks for the update. Your video from 3 months ago just appeared in my feed.
No worries!
Thank you very much Computer Guy!! Very very well presented!!
Glad it helped!
I had to manually insert the ISO into Rufus. Now, Rufus will not allow : Device, partition scheme, target system, file system, or cluster size manipulation after dragging the ISO in. All of the drop downs are grayed out and contain nothing. Now what? Win10 home; version22H2
I have the same problem!!!
I am making this hirens USB drive right now. Play many things of All quickly. It is up to 4.5.2180 and there is no mention in the instructions of choosing anything other than MBR as a partition scheme particularly not mentioning any special setting windows 11
Windows 11 requires GPT file system, not MBR...but the flash drive should boot with either
I think you should make a video comparing Hirens boot utility media vs Medicat boot utility media
Also, show how both can be put on a single usb using Ventoy along with a windows 10 /11 boot image
It's already on the drawing board 👍
It's great to have access to tools; it's something else altogether to know what to do with them.
True, but that's for another video. Having the tools gives someone options and opportunities to ask "ok now what". That's where I and others can assist
Thank you. Very well presented. I'll be sure to check out your other videos.
Thanks Scott.
Welcome!
Sorry Scott for the previous question on how to delete Hiren's from CD E:. I hit eject and puff it was gone. Thanks again for your informative videos.
Glad you got it figured out! You're welcome and thanks for the update 👍
Still wondering why it has to be on two separate sticks. It would be more economical and handy to use just one.
It doesn't have to be. You can use ventoy. With ventoy u can create a flash drive that can hold all the necessary ISO files to use. When u plug the drive in to boot,u just pick the ISO file u want and it will load. Been using ventoy for yrs. Its fantastic.
@CelestialDeathscythe agreed! Ventoy is a great option as well
The LAST flash drive you will ever need! Ventoy FULL walk-thru and review!
ruclips.net/video/MIT3w-EPA9M/видео.html
Oh ok so u did it. I didn't realize it. RUclips just put this video in a compilation playlists and i had it on in the background. Keep up the good work. U earn a sub from me@@AskYourComputerGuy
following your directions to the tee and none of those screens pop up. **** I was able to get the first USB disck to work and I loaded the rufus file and hiern file. When I launched rufus it doesn't have anything in the first box to select (ie the drive) Im stuck at this point
Looks like Rufus has a new update, 4.5 now. Running Windows 10 pro, still coming up with "this app unable to run on this PC, check publisher for previous versions". Trying to boot the Hirens flash drive. Thanks
12:54 use OEM recovery disk to create factory image with all drivers & preloaded software included
awesome. only this was new to me, and important enough to be liked just for this lol.
I appreciate that
I'd have to recommend Ventoy for creating my bookable media, even if it is just for Windows installers. Ventoy allows you to put as many bootable isos as you can fit on the drive as you want and select which one to boot from. That way if you decide to update the image you can just copy the current iso to the drive instead of recreating the entire drive. Also since you can add any bootable iso, why not just copy the iso for Hiren's Boot CD onto Ventoy as well and have it on one drive.
I definitely recommend Medicat. If Hiren's was a swiss army knife, then Medicat is a digital combat. While it is by no means small (~20GB larger than Hiren's) the extensive collection of tools it offers at times multiple ways to accomplish the same task tackling it differently though. This allows each user the flexibility to choose the tool that matches their work flow best. If I had to choose one weapon to go into the trenches with it would be Medicat.
I agree! x2
The LAST flash drive you will ever need! Ventoy FULL walk-thru and review!
ruclips.net/video/MIT3w-EPA9M/видео.html
And a Medicat full walk-through is in the works!
I've been using Windows since XP and my system never broke down, like, never really... guess I'm just lucky or too paranoid! Still going to download Hirens just in case!
Thank you for the great vids and update! Question, a few months ago you did a video about Ventoy - is this a better than using hirens?
It's not one or the other. Hirens is a great troubleshooting utility, Ventoy is a utility to store multiple ISO images on one drive. You can store Hirens, Windows installer, Linux, pretty much any ISO you can find *on* the Ventoy drive. Ventoy doesn't *do* anything by itself. Hope that explains it better 👍
Great video - thank you 💕💕 that USB utility disk sound fantastic
It really is!
Hey there Scott! Thanks for the 2024 update. Always enjoy your content.
A quick question, so must it be 2 USB drives? As I have Ventoy on mine. Is that not the way to go anymore?
Thanks.
No you're good if you already have them downloaded on Ventoy 👍
@@AskYourComputerGuy Phew, thanks, yes I do 👍 Thanks for the confirmation!
@JasonWestaway you bet 👍
I told you before: genius!!
HELP! At 7:39...The Hirens does not appear in Boot selection. It remains "Disk or ISO image". The drop down list has several choices, but none for HBCD_PE_x64. And other boxes are not selectable?
Now I have a USB with that Hiren's thing, but there are just some folders in there, with many links, but what can I use that for?
What I saw in your Hirens, there were some troubleshooting links, like eg. diagnostic which is not what I have, but that's probably me who has something wrong, even though I followed your descriptions step by step.
3:19 _"win8: u'll have to download iso files [dierctly]"_
thats nice actually. use it with rufus FOSS utility in windows.
7:38 ha, gotcha. rufus is awesome. glad the hiren's they made the wise decision.
Agreed
Ultimate boot cd used to be the thing but I think its not been updated in almost 10 years.
Agreed
I thought just 1 created with Ventoy with Windows iso and Hirens iso was sufficient?
If you've got them on Ventoy, you're good. This was an update for people who wanted separate standalone discs, because the setup process is completely different now. You're good to go 👍
Thank you I appreciate the reply, I was about to start all over again. 😲@@AskYourComputerGuy
@jimihendrix4376 absolutely 👍
Great video, thank you!
Glad you found it useful 👍
8:21 if I select GPT as partition scheme because I'm using a windows 11. Should I check the "Use Rufus MBR with BIOS ID"?
Not necessary
Thanks for the video!
You're welcome!
Have opened Rufus 4.6. Am at the 7:34 mark of this video; all is well. Clicked ALT-E etc.. I click on the HBCD_PE_x64.iso file I downloaded and the Rufus display doesn't reflect the HBCD_PE_x64.iso info in the boot selection window, it's Disk or ISO image (please select) or MS-DOS or FreeDOS no matter what I do. Obviously key button is grayed out so can't proceed. Any thoughts as to resolution? Believe I've done everything in the proper sequence to this point.
I seem to recall running into this the first time. Hit CTRL-E and was expecting something to happen. It didn't. Ran it again and paid closer attention to what options I had and it seemed to work. So I'd recommend trying again 🤷♂️
@@AskYourComputerGuy Thank you for your reply. Am certainly not finding fault with you or your video, just trying to succeed with this process.
I attempted this several times yesterday; verified 'Dual UEFI mode is enabled' in each case BEFORE single clicking on the HBCD_PE_x64.iso in my downloads folder and received the results described in my first comment above; e.g. nothing changes in the Rufus display selection box.
Today I repeated your video steps multiple times and still not seeing same results as in your video reflecting HBCD_PE_x64.iso in the Rufus selection window.
Perhaps there is some option I have set preventing this from working? Have Windows 10 Pro installed on August 14, 2020, OS Build 19045.5247. 64 bit, 16GB Ram.
I recommend Sergei Strelec boot because it was the only one that recognized my nvme drive.
First: The steps for Windows 11 installation media is a little different.
Second: I'm curious if you bought the Windows installation flash drive from a store. Is this Installation media flash drive necessary?
Third: When creating the file in Rufus for (Windows 11) and you change to GPT, the Target System changes from BIOS or UEFI to, UEFI (non CSM)
Fourth: Is this compatible with Laptop and Desktop?
Should you update the Hiren’s boot flash drive once a year or something for updated program versions etc.?
Very useful video, thank you.
Nope...Hirens hasn't changed in a while, so once is fine 👍
@ Thanks for your follow up!
@Pierceb2 you bet 👍
I still didn't get the tools. It still opens windows 11. None of the actions I took in windows 11 transferred back to my working version of windows 10, even though I could browse my w10 files and play mp3's, mp4's and read text files from the windows 10 file system. - AND, somehow, my windows clock MYSTERIOUSLY jumped ahead by 6 hours.
You made a Ventoy video a few months ago which I really appreciated but I'm confused as to why this video is instructing us to make separate usb drives and not mentioning Ventoy
Great question - some people prefer everything on one drive, in which case Ventoy is fantastic. My personal preference is to have multiple points of failure (for what I do all day), in which case having multiple drives makes more sense. Neither is better than the other, the most important part is what works best for you! Stay tuned for video response on Friday - great question :)
MBR partition only support 2tb of storage..GPT is unlimited storage capacity. Pressing -“Alt+E” doesn’t make any special trick but it only toggles partition scheme from GPT to MBR.
👍
Value, thank you!
Wow, thanks! 👍
Thanks for making this very helpful video! I just subscribed to your channel.
Awesome, welcome to the community 👍
What's the difference between Media Creation Tool off the website and 'Create a Recovery Drive' within Windows itself?
Thanks, great info.
Great question! This may help:
EVERY Windows user needs to do this NOW!
ruclips.net/video/nyZc7iYEceQ/видео.html
@@AskYourComputerGuy Watched and learned I've been doing the right thing making recovery USBs.
Think I'll also keep updated clone NVMEs as my first option in case of hw issues too.
Thank you again, awesome channel!
@outermarker5801 excellent, and good job 👍
When i press alt+E and it just opens mail
Seems like with the SSDs, when they die - they DIE. Not getting anything off them, Hirens or no Hirens
better option:
easy2boot - put all the OS installer ISO's as well as the toolkit ISO's on one drive and allow Easy to boot to multiboot everything.
Bonus, get macrium reflect free PE on the drive as well, and clone / image drives as well. A 2tb M.2 drive in a usb enclosure makes a very fast and reliable USB toolkit drive with tons of space.
I recently discovered that Dell computers seem to have RAID enabled by default even on single drive systems (which causes the SSD to not be detected by the windows installer)
I was not aware of that
What is the difference between the Windows media disc you downloaded vs the one you can create in Windows?
I opened Rufus and activated the Alt-E thing for Dual UEFI/BIOS, it saw my drive, but wouldn't let me select any .iso - (OOPS ! -This time it worked. you moved the mouse so fast that I didn't get the selection process for the iso. It might be a good idea to say something like "double click on the word select. I tried clicking on the down-arrow by the word select and it never worked.")
I didn't get as many tools as you did in the video.
Ventoy adds another level to utility tools
is ventoy good or bad.
@@yasirarafat9279 ventoy is great, lets you boot ISOs that you have on the USB itself or your computers drives.
@@yasirarafat9279its better in any way
It's exceptional. Just load ventoy onto your flash drive, copy your ISO files onto the drive and u are good. When u need to boot from the ventoy drive u can pick the ISO file list u want and run it. No need for 2 or more flash drives for each ISO file. @@yasirarafat9279
Ventoy is great!
The LAST flash drive you will ever need! Ventoy FULL walk-thru and review!
ruclips.net/video/MIT3w-EPA9M/видео.html
As of windows 10 my computer did never crash or gave me bluescreen , The IHrens cd i used way back , but never need it anymore, windows can repair itself
7:42 You said I have a choice of MBR or GPT and that, if I have Windows 11, I need to choose GPT. I will be needing this disk for two systems, my Windows 11 Pro and my wife's Windows 10 (can't remember if Pro or not). Is it not possible to make a disk to support both systems? If it is possible, which should I choose at this point, MBR or GPT?
Windows 11 requires GPT. Can't boot to an MBR drive in Windows 11. Windows 10 and older, you can use either
@@AskYourComputerGuy Now I get it. If I use GPT, I should be OK for both my W11 and my wife's W10. Thank you for the reply.
@BooLee01 that is correct! My pleasure 👍
I am always learning new stuff from these videos. A quick question though. Am I right in thinking that if I do, say a monthly clone of my hard drive, and do regular backups of my important files to an external storage device, then I should never really have any need for the tools in this video? (I take for granted that I do not clone a faulty hard drive as that would of course be a bit of a show stopper).
With the exception of a faulty drive, yes...100%
So this does work if all else fails, cuz my PC has been on blue screen for the past couple of days.
I could never log in even with all the methods u mentioned in a previous video.
Also do I use the Hirens drive for blue screen or the windows media installation drive?
Hi, great YT & thank you. Can you please do one with MediaCat? Please & thank you.
It's on the drawing board 👍
Thank you for this advice
You are so welcome
Excellent video. Congrats. One question, can I use a 4GB flash drive for the Hiren's boot disc. It appear the files are about 3 GB. Thanks
Absolutely, just make sure the drive is empty. It will be wiped clean
The Media Creation Tool is now separated from the tool used to install windows 11 onto an already running computer.
Not sure what you mean. I download and use it all the time for both Windows 10 and Windows 11
It's Rufus 4.6.2208 now and when I clicked start. I got an error message saying something like the boot has a revocable license and to find another ISO from a legitimate source. I didn't print screen this is not verbatim. thank you.
Can you please make a ventoy version of this.. thanks
Besides this?
The LAST flash drive you will ever need! Ventoy FULL walk-thru and review!
ruclips.net/video/MIT3w-EPA9M/видео.html
I use hiren. On my medicat drive. I put an iso for every operating system I need on it and it has a library of other maintenance and recovery tools.
Ventoy is a superior option, and you only need one drive for multiple OS options.
I agree! For certain use cases, it absolutely is better. That's why Imsde this:
The LAST flash drive you will ever need! Ventoy FULL walk-thru and review!
ruclips.net/video/MIT3w-EPA9M/видео.html
I just got my usb drives delivered today and was just about to make my boot drives with the help of your older video when I happened across this video first. Thank you.
You're welcome! 👍
10:46 there're other things like medi-cats and linux that u can use...
glad u shaerd this (:
Working on both a Medicat walk through and a Linux series 👍
Hi, thanks for the great video. I have been subscribed for a few months now and have learned a hell of a lot. One question I have always wondered, are paid versions of antivirus tools much better than their free counterparts? While I don't mind paying to keep my PC secure, I think the best price is always free.
I'm Scottish so that should tell you all you need to know haha
Great question! It depends on your needs. If you are an "average" Windows user, maybe do the same 5-6 things every day and not much else, Windows Defender, Avast Free etc should be more than enough 👍
@@AskYourComputerGuy Brilliant. Thanks very much. Have a great day
@ScotsmanDougal and the same to you, good sir!
Great video! Please explain where a "windows recovery" drive fits in this set of tools. I have already created the windows recovery drive from my PC, do I still need the windows installation USB drive also?? or are they the same?
The recovery drive is the same as this, except it has all your existing drivers and pre-loaded software. I'd still create the Hirens, but you don't need the Windows installer now :)
Rufus is different for me, I did the target system (BIOS or UEFI), now I click GPT - "Target System" changes to "UEFI (non CSM)" ... The only way to keep the Target System to BIOS or UEFI is to choose MBR
Thank you.
I'll have to watch this video again because I'm lost watching it once. I'm not a computer whiz. I'm getting a new Dell XPS 8960 Windows 11 PC in a couple of weeks and I got 3 SanDisk 32 GB flash drives as per your previous video for recovery drives and a system repair image on Amazon. After getting those two things done, my next adjustment will be to make Windows 11 look like Windows 7 as much as possible. I did the same with Windows 10 and it's a mix of both. I didn't like those squares on Windows 10's startup image, and I certainly don't like that large Windows 11 menu in the middle of the screen or that blue colored toilet paper image in the background.
My GAWWDDDD does it ever ends? I'm not techie and still run 8.1 but it's so clunkie right now. Many websites don't even open while on Firefox. Other accounts won't open with Edge. So far everything still works on Chrome but youtube freezes up constantly so I think I won't have a choice to go up to 10 or 11 very soon. The only thing I know how to do is log in to Microsoft store
Yeah unfortunately it's only going to get worse going forward 🥲
@@AskYourComputerGuy Should I update to 10 or 11 from my 8.1 ?
@rivieracar1992 I would upgrade to Windows 10. Odds are your system won't support Windows 11 anyway, and Windows 10 is more stable
@@AskYourComputerGuy Thanks. Will do. I booked marked 3 of your videos so wish me luck 🤔🙂
@rivieracar1992 awesome, I appreciate that! I'm here if you need me
Than ks for the video, I am using 2 32GB usb sticks for my installer usbs, making the hirens one as i type this. I made a bootable 4gb dvd-r from the image earlier as my external usb 3 disc burner still functions...
👍