Step 1: Insert your SD card or USB drive. Do not mount any folders from the card. If Windows asks to "Format disk," click Cancel.
Step 2: Run Win64 Disk Imager as Administrator. Right-click the icon > "Run as administrator." Without admin rights, the program cannot access the hardware directly.
Step 3: Select your Image File.
Click the small folder icon next to "Image File." Navigate to your .img file (e.g., 2023-05-03-raspios-bullseye-arm64.img).
Step 4: Select the correct Device. This is the most dangerous step.
Step 5: Write the Image. Click the "Write" button. win64 disk imager
Step 6: Wait. The progress bar will move slowly. A 4GB image takes about 2-5 minutes on USB 3.0. A 32GB image takes longer. Do not unplug the card during this process.
Step 7: Success. You will see "Write Successful." Click OK, close the program, and safely eject the drive (right-click the drive in Explorer > Eject).
The interface is minimal but functional:
✅ Pros:
❌ Cons:
Before you begin, ensure you have a USB drive or SD card plugged in. Warning: This process will erase all data on the target drive. Back up any important files before proceeding.
The project is hosted on SourceForge (which, despite its age, remains the official distribution channel). The specific project is "Win32 Disk Imager," but the Files section contains the 64-bit installer.
This is where Win64 Disk Imager has a mixed reputation. Step 1: Insert your SD card or USB drive
✅ Good:
⚠️ Risks:
🔴 Critical: Always double-check the drive letter. It will happily wipe any removable drive without further protection.
Under the "Device" section, use the dropdown menu to select your USB drive letter. Step 5: Write the Image