How to declutter, quiet down, and take the AI out of Windows 11 25H2

This article outlines a method for installing a streamlined version of Windows 11, devoid of pre-installed applications and services typically bundled by Microsoft. Standard Windows 11 installations often include features like a forced Microsoft account sign-up, cloud storage promotion, and aggressive pushes for Microsoft Edge and Copilot, which many users perceive as unnecessary bloatware. The core of this method involves using a third-party script called Tiny11Builder. This script processes an official Windows 11 installation ISO file, removing unwanted components to create a genuinely clean installation. The result is a Windows environment free from applications such as News, OfficeHub, and GetStarted prompts, offering a minimalistic start menu. Users retain the option to install these features later if desired, but the initial setup provides a clean slate. The process begins with downloading an official Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices from Microsoft's software download page. Users are instructed to select the Windows version corresponding to their product key. The download duration typically ranges around 15 minutes, depending on internet speed. Following the ISO download, the next step involves acquiring the Tiny11Builder script from its GitHub page by downloading the ZIP file. After extracting the contents, the system needs configuration to allow PowerShell to execute administrative changes. This is achieved by opening PowerShell as an administrator and executing the command `Set-ExecutionPolicy unrestricted`. A security warning appears, requiring user confirmation, but the change can be reverted later using `Set-ExecutionPolicy restricted`. Once the Windows 11 ISO download is complete, the file is mounted as a virtual CD by right-clicking it and selecting 'Mount.' This action makes the ISO's contents accessible as a virtual drive, identifiable in Windows Explorer. The `tiny11maker.ps1` script, obtained earlier, is then run with PowerShell. The script prompts the user to enter the drive letter of the mounted virtual drive and specify the desired Windows version based on their product key. The script then proceeds with the stripping process, which can take some time. Upon completion, a new, clean ISO file is generated in the script's directory. This customized ISO can be used for installing Windows 11 in a virtual machine or directly onto a physical device. Installation can be performed by burning the ISO to a DVD or creating a bootable USB drive, for which Microsoft provides official instructions. The resulting Windows 11 installation is completely clean, eliminating prompts for Microsoft account creation or sign-in, and excluding non-essential Microsoft services. The start menu of this customized installation is notably clutter-free, allowing users to add only the applications they genuinely wish to use. While Microsoft does not officially offer such a streamlined installation, the Tiny11Builder provides a valuable solution for power users seeking a minimalist Windows 11 experience. #Windows11 #CleanInstall #BloatwareRemoval #Tiny11Builder #PowerShell #ISO #OperatingSystem #TechTutorial

Windows 11 includes various features, some of which are not installed by default, such as the Windows Subsystem for Linux and different language packs. Users also have the option to remove features that come pre-installed. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to manage these optional features, offering methods for both graphical interfaces and command-line operations. Two primary graphical methods for managing optional features are detailed: using the Settings app and the Control Panel app. For the Settings app, the process involves navigating to 'System' then 'Optional Features' and clicking 'View Features.' From there, users can see a list of installed features and access an option to add more. To install a new feature, users select 'See Available Features,' tick the desired features, and click 'Next' or 'Add.' The system then automatically installs them. To remove features via the Settings app, users select the unwanted features from the 'See Added Features' list and click 'Remove.' This method allows for multiple selections for batch uninstallation. Alternatively, the Control Panel offers another graphical approach. Users can access the 'Programs and Features' section by searching for 'control panel' in the Start Menu and then clicking 'Uninstall a program.' This section lists installed programs and features, allowing for uninstallation, modification, or repair. For features that can be turned on or off without full uninstallation, users can search for 'Turn Windows features on or off' in the Start Menu. This opens a separate 'Windows Features' window, which is also accessible via 'More Windows features' at the bottom of the Settings app. This window presents a checklist of features that can be toggled on or off, providing granular control over system functionalities. For users who prefer command-line interfaces, the article explains how to manage optional features using the Terminal with administrative privileges. To open the Terminal with administrative access, users press Windows+X and select 'Terminal (Admin).' A list of all available features, indicating whether they are enabled or disabled, can be obtained using the command 'Get-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online'. To disable a feature, the command 'Disable-WindowsOptionalFeature -FeatureName [FeatureName] -Online' is used, replacing '[FeatureName]' with the actual name of the feature. Conversely, to enable a feature, the command is 'Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -FeatureName [FeatureName] -Online'. The article notes that some changes made through the Terminal may require a system restart to take full effect, ensuring that the feature functions correctly or is completely removed. #Windows11 #OptionalFeatures #SystemSettings #ControlPanel #CommandPrompt #WindowsSubsystemForLinux #LanguagePacks #FeatureManagement #OperatingSystem

The Windows Modules Installer Worker, identified as TiWorker.exe, is a core Windows process integral to managing system updates and performing routine maintenance tasks. While its operation is normal, an issue arises when this process consumes a disproportionately high amount of CPU resources over an extended period, potentially rendering the PC unresponsive. This article details several methods to address and mitigate such high CPU usage. Initially, if the Windows Modules Installer Worker process is observed consuming significant CPU, it is generally advisable to allow it to complete its current task, whether it's an update installation or a maintenance operation. The process is designed to cease automatically once these tasks are finalized. However, if the process persists for an unusually long duration or if the user needs immediate access to system resources for other tasks, various troubleshooting steps can be employed. One common reason for prolonged CPU usage by the Windows Modules Installer Worker is an underlying problem with Windows Update. To resolve this, running the Windows Update troubleshooter is recommended. For Windows 11 users, this utility is accessible via Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters, under the 'Run' button next to 'Windows Update'. Windows 10 users can find it in Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional Troubleshooters, where they should select 'Windows Update' and click 'Run the Troubleshooter'. Following the on-screen instructions can help identify and rectify update-related issues. In situations where immediate system responsiveness is critical, and the Windows Modules Installer Worker is severely impacting performance, the process can be temporarily terminated. This action is not generally recommended due to its potential to disrupt ongoing updates, but it offers a short-term solution. To do this, users can open Task Manager by right-clicking the Start Menu icon, navigate to the 'Processes' tab, right-click 'Windows Modules Installer Worker,' and select 'End Task.' Another approach to prevent the Windows Modules Installer Worker from running is to clear the Windows Update cache and temporarily pause updates. This method ensures that the process has no updates to install or check for, thereby preventing its activation. However, pausing updates is generally discouraged as it can lead to missed bug fixes and security patches. To perform this, users first need to stop the 'Windows Update' service through the 'Services' window (accessible by typing `services.msc` in the Run dialog). After stopping the service, the contents of the `C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution` folder, which stores the update cache, should be deleted. Subsequently, updates can be paused through the Windows Settings: on Windows 11, under Settings > Windows Update, select a duration from the 'Pause Updates' drop-down; on Windows 10, navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, click 'Advanced Options,' and choose a 'Pause Until' duration. Finally, since the Windows Modules Installer Worker is also activated by system maintenance tasks, users can adjust the schedule for these tasks to prevent them from running at inconvenient times. This can be done by searching for 'Security and Maintenance' in the Start Menu, expanding the 'Maintenance' section, and selecting 'Change Maintenance Settings.' Here, users can specify a preferred time for maintenance tasks, ideally when the PC is not actively in use, by modifying the 'Run Maintenance Tasks Daily at' setting and confirming with 'OK.' These strategies offer comprehensive solutions to manage and reduce the CPU usage associated with the Windows Modules Installer Worker, ensuring smoother system operation. #WindowsModulesInstallerWorker #HighCPUUsage #WindowsUpdate #Troubleshooting #SystemMaintenance #Windows11 #Windows10 #TaskManager #CacheClearing

This article outlines the comprehensive process of downloading and installing Windows 11, catering to both new PC builds and clean installations on existing systems. It details three primary methods for obtaining a Windows 11 ISO file: directly from Microsoft, using Microsoft's Media Creation Tool, and utilizing UUP Dump for insider builds. The guide emphasizes the importance of creating a bootable installation disk and provides step-by-step instructions for each method. The first method involves downloading the Windows 11 ISO directly from Microsoft's official website. Users navigate to the Windows 11 ISO page, select the appropriate version for their processor (Intel/AMD or Arm64), confirm their language, and then proceed with the download. This method is straightforward and provides the latest official release version of Windows 11. Alternatively, users can employ Microsoft's Media Creation Tool to download Windows 11 and directly create a bootable USB flash drive. This process requires an 8GB or larger USB drive, which will be overwritten. After downloading and launching the tool, users accept the license agreement, select their language and edition, and then choose the USB flash drive option. The tool then downloads the necessary files and prepares the bootable drive, simplifying the installation media creation process. For users interested in installing Windows 11 Insider Preview builds (Release Preview, Beta, Dev, or Canary channels), the article introduces UUP Dump. This third-party website facilitates the download of files directly from Microsoft's update servers to create a custom, up-to-date ISO. Users select their desired build, language, and edition(s), then download a small batch file. Executing this batch file initiates the download of Windows 11 components and their conversion into an ISO file. A notable advantage of ISOs created via UUP Dump is their ability to bypass TPM and Secure Boot requirements during installation. Once a Windows 11 ISO is obtained, the article guides users on creating a bootable installation disk using Rufus. Rufus is a free, third-party utility recommended for its efficiency in burning ISO files to USB flash drives, correctly arranging partitions, and making the disk bootable. It also offers the option to bypass Windows 11's TPM and Secure Boot requirements. Users connect a USB drive (at least 8GB, with all data erased), launch Rufus, select the USB drive and the downloaded ISO file, and then initiate the process. Optional steps include creating an NTFS partition and disabling system requirements if needed. Finally, the guide details the actual installation of Windows 11 on a target PC. This involves booting the computer from the newly created USB installation drive, selecting language preferences, clicking "Install now," and entering a product key (or choosing to enter it later). Users then accept the license agreement, select a custom installation, choose the installation drive, and complete initial setup steps such as selecting region, naming the device, signing in with a Microsoft account (or opting for a local account), and creating a PIN. The article notes that the installation process may vary slightly based on the specific version and timing of the installation. #Windows11 #CleanInstall #ISODownload #MediaCreationTool #UUPDump #Rufus #BootableUSB #OperatingSystem #InstallationGuide

This article outlines a detailed method for installing a privacy-friendly version of Windows, specifically addressing concerns related to Microsoft's increasingly invasive data collection practices and mandatory online account requirements. It highlights that default Windows installations are problematic for privacy because activity is tied directly to a user's identity through their Microsoft account, enabling extensive tracking of app usage, search queries, and browsing history. Even a throwaway account can still lead to a unique profile linked to real identity if financial transactions or account recovery methods are used. To achieve a more private Windows installation, the process requires three main components: Rufus, the official Windows ISO image, and a USB drive with at least 8GB of storage. Rufus is a free utility used to create bootable USB drives and, crucially, contains features to bypass Microsoft's online account requirements and other privacy-invasive settings. The official Windows installation image should be downloaded directly from Microsoft's website to ensure its integrity and avoid potential malware from third-party sources. The article emphasizes the importance of backing up any data on the USB drive, as Rufus will erase its contents during the process. The guide details the steps to create a modified Windows installer. First, users need to download the latest version of Rufus and the appropriate Windows ISO image (e.g., Windows 11 x64 or ARM version, depending on their processor type). Once both are acquired, the USB drive is connected, and Rufus is launched. Rufus automatically detects connected drives. Users then select the downloaded ISO file within Rufus. The key to a private installation lies in the customisation options offered by Rufus. Users are instructed to check specific settings: remove the requirements for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0; remove the requirement for an online Microsoft account; create a local account with a specified username; and disable data collection by skipping privacy questions. These modifications prevent Microsoft from enforcing its online account policy and extensive data collection during the installation and initial setup phases. After configuring these settings, Rufus proceeds to write the modified Windows image to the USB drive, a process that typically takes 10–15 minutes. Once the bootable USB is ready, users plug it into the target computer and access the one-time boot menu to initiate the Windows installation. The setup wizard guides users through standard installation steps such as selecting language, Windows edition, and the installation drive. Unlike a default installation, this modified process allows users to boot directly into the desktop after setting up the region and keyboard layout, without encountering any online account or telemetry prompts. The Windows system will automatically create a local account using the username previously specified in Rufus, ensuring that the new Windows environment is set up with enhanced privacy from the outset. This method provides a way for users who prefer the simplicity and privacy of traditional Windows installations to bypass modern, more intrusive setup procedures. #WindowsInstallation #Privacy #MicrosoftAccount #Rufus #LocalAccount #DataCollection #USBInstaller #Windows11 #OperatingSystem

This article details an experimental installation of Windows 11 using a highly compressed, nano-sized ISO image created with the Nano11 Builder script. The motivation for this experiment stems from a recent report on NTDEV's project to significantly reduce the Windows 11 installation footprint, primarily for creating compact Windows-based appliances rather than for mission-critical applications. The author, typically a Linux and Raspberry Pi advocate, undertook this challenge out of curiosity and a need for a Windows environment for specific software like DaVinci Resolve. The process began by downloading the official Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft, which measured 5.69GB. Using the Nano11 Builder script, the author successfully compressed this to a mere 2.14GB, representing a 62.30% reduction compared to the original. A "Tiny" version of the ISO, also created during the process, weighed in at 2.81GB, a 50.6% reduction. These reductions were achieved by stripping away numerous default applications and features, aiming for a barebones Windows 11 installation. The script execution took approximately 90 minutes on a Lenovo X390 laptop equipped with an eighth-generation Intel Core i5 processor. Following the ISO creation, the next phase involved installing these miniature Windows 11 versions. For the Nano and Tiny installs, a VirtualBox virtual machine was utilized, configured with 8GB of RAM, four CPU cores, and a 40GB virtual hard drive. For comparison, a full Windows 11 installation was performed on a Lenovo X220, an older machine not officially supported by Windows 11, necessitating the use of Rufus to bypass hardware requirements like RAM, TPM, and Secure Boot. A critical challenge arose during the Nano installation, where the installer consistently crashed at 75% completion. This issue was resolved by reverting to an older setup process, as suggested after raising a GitHub issue. Upon successful installation and initial setup within the virtual machine, the nano-sized Windows 11 occupied 8.36GB of storage. This figure is approximately two-thirds smaller than a typical full Windows 11 installation, which consumed 24.6GB in the tests. The Tiny version, installed similarly, took up 10.1GB, indicating that the Nano version achieved greater reduction by removing more background components. Both the Nano and Tiny installations were notably lightweight, lacking even a web browser by default. Essential applications would need to be installed manually, either via the Microsoft Store or by transferring executables from another machine. The practical applications for such a compact Windows 11 installation are primarily niche, such as building dedicated Windows appliances for specific tasks. The author suggests using it as a base for emulation systems, specifically mentioning an older gaming rig with an Intel eighth to tenth-generation CPU and an Nvidia RTX 2000 series GPU for emulating classic consoles. The minimal footprint is expected to allow adequate performance even on constrained hardware, despite the author noting that performance in the VM felt merely "OK." The article concludes with the author needing to formally request a Windows 11 upgrade before a specific deadline, highlighting the contrast between the experimental compact OS and a standard corporate deployment. #Windows11 #Nano11Builder #OperatingSystems #CustomISO #VirtualMachine #SystemOptimization #TechExperiment #StorageEfficiency

Decluttering a home can often feel overwhelming, but professional organizers offer practical, stress-free strategies to make the process manageable and even satisfying. The article emphasizes that decluttering is a gradual process, often looking worse before it gets better, and encourages readers to anticipate this and not be discouraged. A key piece of advice is to start small to prevent decision fatigue. Tackling a minor task, such as organizing a single drawer that takes less than 20 minutes, can build momentum. This initial success can then make larger projects seem less daunting, as decluttering is described as "contagious." To maintain accountability and motivation, the article suggests enlisting a "buddy," such as a spouse, family member, friend, or professional organizer, to provide support throughout the process. Scheduling dedicated time for decluttering, treating it like any other important appointment, is crucial to ensure it gets done. The article also advises focusing on one room at a time, thoroughly assessing each item. If an item is not loved or regularly used, the recommendation is to let it go. Rewarding progress, whether with a small treat like a bottle of wine or a new clothing item after purging a wardrobe, can provide necessary motivation. Detailed, room-by-room strategies are provided, starting with the kitchen, often considered the "heart of the home." For the kitchen, the advice includes completely emptying cabinets and drawers to sort through food items and kitchenware. Readers should check expiration dates, identify duplicates, and consider investing in organizers like spice racks. Cleaning out the refrigerator involves removing all contents, wiping shelves, and discarding old foods or condiments that have been open for over three months. The article stresses mindfulness about unused items, purging mismatched lids, broken containers, or chipped dishes. Categorizing items into groups like baking supplies or glassware and assigning each a designated, accessible home is important before restocking. For the bathroom, the focus is on creating a streamlined space for daily routines. This involves clearing drawers and under-sink storage, disposing of expired medications, and checking cosmetics and skincare products for expiration dates, noting that eye products may expire in as little as three months. Tossing bulky packaging can also free up space. Items should be grouped into categories like skincare, haircare, and medications, with daily essentials placed at eye level. Organization systems such as decorative trays, apothecary jars, and over-the-toilet organizers are suggested for added storage. The shower should also be decluttered of empty bottles and unused products. In the bedroom and closets, the article suggests that a clutter-free environment can improve sleep quality. The process begins with clearing nightstands of miscellaneous items like chargers and old paperwork. Dresser drawers require pulling out all clothing and accessories, purging unloved items, and then categorizing and refolding what remains, possibly using drawer organizers. For closets, a thorough purge involves pulling everything out to assess items, considering why something hasn't been worn, and prioritizing an everyday wardrobe. The "one-in-one-out" rule is recommended for future purchases. Streamlining hangers and using clear storage vessels for items stored out of sight, placing favorites at eye level, also contributes to an organized closet. Living rooms, which can quickly accumulate clutter from toys, books, and electronics, benefit from assigning a permanent home to everyday items. Utilizing ottomans with hidden storage and entertainment centers with cabinets can conceal visible clutter. Decorative bins are suggested for tucking away items like dog toys, blankets, or spare chargers, turning them into decorative elements. Sorting through books, board games, and toys, discarding those with missing pieces or those no longer used, is also advised. For kids' spaces, regular decluttering is essential due to rapid growth and changing tastes. Donating outgrown toys and clothes, or boxing them for storage, is recommended. Using labeled bins for "too small" or "too big" clothing and keeping a donation bag handy can integrate decluttering into routine. Sorting through art supplies and discarding dried markers, broken crayons, or incomplete sets is also a good practice. Finally, laundry rooms, often catch-all spaces, can be made more functional by relocating items unrelated to laundry. Cleaning supplies should be corralled in bins and baskets, with unused or old items discarded. Investing in multiple laundry baskets for whites, darks, and hand-wash items, and creating a "to do" bin for items needing dry cleaning or mending, can streamline the laundry process. Making use of vertical space with shelving is also suggested. #DeclutteringTips #HomeOrganization #StressFreeLiving #RoomByRoomDeclutter #KitchenOrganization #BathroomDeclutter #ClosetOrganization #LivingRoomOrganization #KidsRoomDeclutter

This article presents a comprehensive list of 47 storage solutions designed to eliminate clutter and optimize space within a home, preparing for holiday hosting and everyday organization. The offerings range from furniture with hidden compartments to specialized organizers for various household items, addressing common organizational challenges in different areas of the house. For living rooms and home offices, a circular lift-top table with hidden storage can serve multiple functions while making small spaces appear larger. Kitchen organization is tackled with products like an expandable 'Spicy Shelf' for spices and a magnetic stove shelf for frequently used cooking items, preventing clutter on countertops and in cabinets. A countertop cutlery organizer is also featured for kitchens with limited drawer space. The article highlights solutions for children's items, such as a slide-away storage bag for toys that simplifies cleanup, and an over-the-door stuffy organizer for plush animal collections. Closet and bedroom organization include shoe stackers to double shoe storage capacity, foldable cloth storage cubes for miscellaneous items, and hanging vacuum bags for seasonal clothes, offering significant space savings. A sturdy velvet storage bench with a lift-top lid provides substantial hidden storage, functioning as both seating and an organizational unit. An acrylic belt organizer helps keep accessories tidy, whether wall-mounted or stacked on a dresser. For unique storage needs, a baseball hat organizer maintains the shape of caps and keeps them centrally located. Bathroom solutions feature rustproof shower caddy shelves for toiletries and a slim storage cart for small spaces lacking medicine cabinets or vanity storage. A toilet paper dispenser that discreetly holds multiple rolls is also presented. Garages and utility areas can benefit from a tool organizer to keep mops, brooms, and other equipment off the floor, and a ceiling-mounted storage rack maximizes vertical space for bulky items. Furthermore, adjustable hanging rods can be installed in closets to optimize hanging space for various clothing types. Innovative space-saving furniture includes a compact four-person dining set with stools that double as storage bins and a day bed with pull-out drawers for storing seasonal clothes and linens. For book lovers, floating hidden bookshelves offer an unconventional way to display titles without consuming floor space. General organizational tools like cabinet shelf organizers help elevate items and make room for more, while a six-piece plastic drawer organizer set brings order to junk drawers. Lastly, Elephant Trax Labels provide a digital inventory solution for extensive decor collections, ensuring easy identification of stored items. #HomeOrganization #StorageSolutions #ClutterFreeLiving #SpaceSaving #HomeDecor #KitchenOrganization #BedroomStorage #BathroomOrganization #GarageStorage