Creating an Operating System Recovery USB for Win 11 Home on XPS 8950

Question

Greetings,

This is my last resort. I have reviewed comparable questions posted to this Forum, but did not find the answers I am seeking. Hopefully, I can get those answers here.

I am trying to create an Operating System Recovery USB to have as a backup for the original version of Windows that shipped with my new Dell. There appear to be two different methods and I’m not sure which is the best. My goal is to have my OS (Windows 11 Home x64) shipped with my Desktop on a USB in the event I need to reinstall or if I have any issues with upgrading to Windows 11 Pro.

Note: I am updating for several issues:

There is an issue with “Dark Mode” with the various browsers that were installed prior to making changes. Many web pages are too dark for some text to be seen. Two different Dell Support Tech Agents recommended Reinstalling OS (the system was on 4 months old at the time).
Since AUG, my computer will no longer enter Sleep or Hibernation mode. Occasionally, after manually entering Hibernation, it will wake and remain “awake”.
I want full version of BitLocker

Method 1

From the support page of my specific computer on the Dell website under Additional Resources, there is an option to Create Recovery USB.

Method 2

From Start, type “Recovery Drive”. There is an option to “Create Recovery Drive”. Choosing this option opens a pop-up window for “Recovery Media Center”.

Questions

What is the difference between a recovery disk that includes system files versus a recovery disk that only restores to the default configuration? Does the system files option include any settings changes I have made?
Which Method above should I choose?
Assuming there is a difference, which Method is “Best”?

I appreciate all suggestions. Too many injuries, surgeries, and concussions make even the simplest of tasks difficult to understand.

Semper Fi

System:

Model: Dell XPS 8950

Windows 11: Version 25H2 (OS Build 26200.7462)

Drives: SSD 1TB M.2 PCIe NVME (Boot)

HDD 2TB 7200 RPM (Storage)

redxps630 · Accepted Answer

You do not check that small box so a small 1-2 GB USB flash drive suffices to make a recovery drive. It is also much quicker to make than if the small box is checked. This small recovery drive merely provides a bare bone Windows PE (preinstallation environment) to allow system image restore from a copy saved on external usb hdd. It by itself does not hold all the system files to restore PC.

(edited)

redxps630 · Answer

To restore your operating system to its original factory image
https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-us/000123667/how-to-download-and-use-the-dell-os-recovery-image-in-microsoft-windows

A better way to run Windows 11 Pro is to clean install than upgrade from with 11 home, imo.

If you are concerned 11 pro may not be good for you and you like 11 home so far, you can also create a system image of current 11 home and save it on an external USB hdd or flash drive in NTFS. Create a recovery small usb without system file. Use the small usb recovery drive plus the USB hdd containing image to restore to 11 home of the day you imaged it.

EddyG · Answer

@redxps630​ Thank you for the suggestion.   To clarify, I want 11 Pro. I do not anticipate any upgrade issues; however, if I do, I want a means to recover my OS. Based on what I have read on multiple websites, if I need to reinstall the original Windows, there is an option to do so without the need to reinstall all apps and data.   I've never captured an Image and would need to study how to do that.   The main thing at this point is creating the USB drive. Based on your reply, I assume you are suggesting using Method 1 above from the Dell Website and not Method 2 from within the Windows environment, correct?   If I may ask another question, what is the difference between the two Methods?   Semper Fi

redxps630 · Answer

Dell restore to factory will wipe your apps and data.

create system image seems to be better for you.

https://www.dell.com/community/en/conversations/xps-desktops/system-image-clone-from-one-pc-to-another-in-windows-11/68916ac71739533d7ffd8d83?keyword=System%20image

EddyG · Answer

@redxps630

Perhaps I am using the wrong terminology; Recovery vs Reinstall. I’ve seen similar websites describing this process discussed on the MS Support page. The data, settings, and apps are untouched. The attached screengrab references this. The pertinent part is highlighted.

I will review the link you provided in more detail. One question that does arise from the initial read through is about the statement “do not check the small box ‘back up system files to the recovery drive’ repeat: do not check the small box.”. Why not?

Again, thanks for your help.

XPS Desktops

Creating an Operating System Recovery USB for Win 11 Home on XPS 8950

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