Why this happens
This issue can occur if the installer doesn’t recognize which edition your product key is for, or if the installation files are not configured to display all editions. As a result, the screen where you normally choose the edition (for example, Windows 11 Pro) is skipped.
Video guide
If you prefer to watch the steps, here’s a video walkthrough:
Text instructions are also provided below if you’d rather follow them.
How to fix the problem
Step 1: Create a new text file
Open Notepad.
Copy and paste this text:
[Channel]
Retail
[VL]
0
Step 2: Save the file as ei.cfg
Click File → Save As.
Name the file: ei.cfg
Under “Save as type,” select All Files (not .txt).
Save the file.
Step 3: Place the file in your Windows USB
Open your Windows installation USB.
Go to the Sources folder.
Copy the ei.cfg file into this folder.
Step 4: Restart the installation
Boot from the USB again.
Start Windows installation.
The edition selection screen (with options like Windows 11 Pro) should now appear.
Extra tip
If you still don’t see the edition list, make sure the ei.cfg file is in the Sources folder and not accidentally saved as ei.cfg.txt.