Windows PE (Preinstallation Environment) is a lightweight version of Windows used for deployment tasks, system recovery, and troubleshooting. Unlike a full Windows installation, it doesn't include a user interface like the desktop and is mainly used for installing, deploying, and repairing Windows. It boots from external media like a USB, allowing IT professionals to work on systems without needing to boot the full OS.
In practical use, it’s handy for tasks like disk imaging or partitioning, system recovery after a crash, and troubleshooting issues when a system won't boot normally. To create a Windows 11 PE bootable USB, you'll typically use tools like Windows ADK (Assessment and Deployment Kit) to create the environment and then write it to a USB drive. There are many step-by-step guides available online that can walk you through this process. If you haven't used it before, experimenting with it in a safe environment can be a great way to get familiar with its capabilities.