So, I got obsessed with achieving the perfect clean install and it took me a week and many many attempts. Feel free to comment what can be improved.


TairikuOkami said:
Latest Windows (24H2) does not install drivers for me, like outdated AMD, they are listed as Optional.


I can relate, I used nlite, vlite in the past and I used to install Windows twice a week. It took many hours to setup everything the way I wanted, so I use scripts to do everything for me. MS sure helped with winget, installing apps just got easier.


I basically do this: Disable Defender, Setup 1/2, Tweaks, Cleanup. It takes like 1 hour overall.
github.com

GitHub - TairikuOokami/Windows: Windows

Windows. Contribute to TairikuOokami/Windows development by creating an account on GitHub.
github.com github.com
Click to expand...
Ok, dude, my brain is melting.
I can't do that right now. I cant even start fathoming how much work it took to get to those bats, I can't understand 1/10 of what's there inside and I won't use something that I don't understand.
But I will, eventually, when my ADHS sleeps, give it a try, and again, until I learn something new.
But I can already see that it's a huge Pandora Box there waiting for me.
Cheers :)
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win11 64 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    LG Gram 17 (2022)
Ghot said:
Most of us disconnect the internet during a Windows install, for exactly the reason you just mentioned. :-)

...

When a time comes that I "must" install Windows... I do it like this....
Click to expand...
Me too, but as soon as I connect to use LG Update for the drivers that I don't have offline, this potato WU gets me every time, or it did until I developed this method.
But you gave me another input with the export driver thing.
I had tried the export driver function in SDIO but it didn't work for me. I must say though that I only tried with the drivers offered by SDIO and when I say "it didn't work" i mean that it took more time extracting than downloading the whole drivers package which contained that driver. So I downloaded and installed offline from there.
But it didn't occur to me that I could extract the drivers of the things that I usually gets with LG Update! If this works it would definitely be a keeper for my next clean install, ALL DRIVERS OFFLINE, no LG Update.

For GHOST or other backup methods, step by step, I received so much input today, for now it's easier for me to do a clean install than to learn how to do backups properly. After all I just have to let the install start, and in the while I do other things and I come back when it's time to tweak things.
What I absolutely want to check is this RUFUS and eventually the answer files, because the MAJOR pain in the ass for me in a clean install or reset is having to go through all those gpedit options again, and all the other tweaks.
Even when I embrace all the masochistic potential in me, it's still not something I want to do again anytime soon.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win11 64 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    LG Gram 17 (2022)
DesignHeaad9206 said:
I've always been curious about backups.
I had tbh only bad experience with Windows System Restore. So I simply resigned myself to not do backups and resort to clean a reset or in the worst case scenario a clean install if there are issues, which btw happens very rarely to me.
After all I have all my important stuff saved in an external drive in case the internal dies, and the internal is partitioned in OS and DATA, and all folders like Documents and Downloads, Music, Pictures etc, they are in DATA. And I have Firefox constantly syncing my bookmarks just in case. It saved me in a few occasions.
So when I reset or clean install I only lose the OS, and time.
Click to expand...
A Windows backup drive is just a NTFS drive with files and folders like any other drive. It can be an internal SATA drive or an external USB drive.
The difference is how data is collected and saved to the drive and it depends on the program you are using.

There are programs that just synchronize source (on the computer) and target (backup drive). I use this method to backup my data every week. I can see my data on the backup with explorer. No encryption or special programs. I use Vice-Versa Pro to do it.

There are programs that creates a compressed drive images. The backup has a huge single file (encrypted or not) that can only be open and / or retrieved with the same program that has created it. I use Macrium Reflect to do it.
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro - Windows 7 HP 64 - Lubuntu
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    custom build
    CPU
    i5 6600K - 800MHz to 4400MHz
    Motherboard
    GA-Z170-HD3P
    Memory
    4+4G GSkill DDR4 3000
    Graphics Card(s)
    IG - Intel 530
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Samsung 226BW
    Screen Resolution
    1680x1050
    Hard Drives
    (1) -1 SM951 – 128GB M.2 AHCI PCIe SSD drive for Win 11
    (2) -1 WD SATA 3 - 1T for Data
    (3) -1 WD SATA 3 - 1T for backup
    (4) -1 BX500 SSD - 128G for Windows 7 and Lubuntu
    PSU
    Thermaltake 450W TR2 gold
    Keyboard
    Old and good Chicony mechanical keyboard
    Mouse
    Logitech mX performance - 9 buttons (had to disable some)
    Internet Speed
    500 Mb/s
    Browser
    Firefox 64
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Asus Q550LF
    CPU
    i7-4500U 800- 3000MHz
    Motherboard
    Asus Q550LF
    Memory
    (4+4)G DDR3 1600
    Graphics card(s)
    IG intel 4400 + NVIDIA GeForce GT 745M
    Sound Card
    Realtek
    Monitor(s) Displays
    LG Display LP156WF4-SPH1
    Screen Resolution
    1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    BX500 120G SSD for Windows and programs
    & 1T HDD for data
    Internet Speed
    500 Mb/s
    Browser
    Firefox 64
Megahertz said:
A Windows backup drive is just a NTFS drive with files and folders like any other drive. It can be an internal SATA drive or an external USB drive.
Click to expand...
That's what I always thought.
But the way TechnoMage talked of Ghost (btw I got confused and I quoted Ghot instead of TechnoMage, I'll have to edit) seemed like it does a complete clone/image of the hard drive, including OS, system files, drivers, everything, so that he can anytime restore it, a bit like Windows System Restore but better.
And he called it backup. So I g(h)o(s)t confused.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win11 64 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    LG Gram 17 (2022)
Most of us here are not computer experts but are "computer enthusiasts" and we are as varied in our methods and opinions of how we want our own systems to be as we are in number. What's more, we could all write our own dissertation of our process to achieve our wanted results.

But the majority of users who come here are newbies so I try to take that into consideration in any comment I make. Comments made in an open forum can have far-reaching effect, so I feel a personal obligation for any opinion I give...including this one.

It is an extreme injustice to inexperienced users when one advocates AND PUSHES any major butchering of to the OS as results can vary by user. That includes disabling AV, turning off windows update, use of old outdated applications, mass disabling of services, using non-standard versions of Windows, etc, etc, etc.

Most regulars here have enough experience to dig ourselves out of a hole of our own making while others do not. So I think about those readers and any ill effect something I say here might cause them. I know I have been incorrect many times in the advice I have given here.
But there's being wrong, and then there's intentional bad advice that newbies might take as gospel.

It's your computer, your choice. Go ahead and do your thing if you are OCD or paranoid about big, bad MS. But what is right for one is not right for the next guy.

I hope anyone reading this will consider that along with your own experience in dealing with problems before you follow what this OP does (and a few others) like the pied piper. Remember that pied piper made his flute sound so pleasing it led those rats right to their own doom.
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 24H2 26100.2314
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell Optiplex 7080
    CPU
    i9-10900 10 core 20 threads
    Motherboard
    DELL 0J37VM
    Memory
    32 gb
    Graphics Card(s)
    none-Intel UHD Graphics 630
    Sound Card
    Integrated Realtek
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Benq 27
    Screen Resolution
    2560x1440
    Hard Drives
    1tb Solidigm m.2 nvme+256gb SKHynix m.2 nvme /External drives 512gb Samsung m.2 sata+1tb Kingston m2.nvme+ 4gb Solidigm nvme
    PSU
    500w
    Case
    MT
    Cooling
    Dell Premium
    Keyboard
    Logitech wired
    Mouse
    Logitech wireless
    Internet Speed
    so slow I'm too embarrassed to tell
    Browser
    Firefox
    Antivirus
    Defender+MWB Premium
  • Operating System
    Windows 10 Pro 22H2 19045.3930
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell Optiplex 9020
    CPU
    i7-4770
    Memory
    24 gb
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Benq 27
    Screen Resolution
    2560x1440
    Hard Drives
    256 gb Toshiba BG4 M.2 NVE SSB and 1 tb hdd
    PSU
    500w
    Case
    MT
    Cooling
    Dell factory
    Mouse
    Logitech wireless
    Keyboard
    Logitech wired
    Internet Speed
    still not telling
    Browser
    Firefox
    Antivirus
    Defender+MWB Premium
DesignHeaad9206 said:
But the way TechnoMage talked of Ghost (btw I got confused and I quoted Ghot instead of TechnoMage, I'll have to edit) seemed like it does a complete clone/image of the hard drive, including OS, system files, drivers, everything, so that he can anytime restore it, a bit like Windows System Restore but better.
Click to expand...
There are lots of options for making a system image of your Windows that could be restored later (should your hard drive fail, for example). Ghost is a particular favourite of TechnoMage, but not many others would use it.

There are many other more 'mainstream' alternatives, Macrium Reflect is the one I use. Until recently there was a Reflect Free version, but that has now been retired (if you have it then it still works, and you can still find downloads for it). A free one that seems to be gaining popularity is Hasleo. Whatever you choose, making a regular system image backup is an 'insurance policy' that is highly recommended, it can get you out of all sorts of trouble.

Other than Macrium, what is your recommendation for a backup/clone software for PC

I purchased Macrium when it was free, and then I was forced to buy it when the discontinued the free version. Now they want an annual subscription, that is a huge increase in price over the original cost. I'm done. Looking for a replacement recommendation. Thank you. Edit, didn't purchase the...
www.elevenforum.com www.elevenforum.com
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Home
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Acer Aspire 3 A315-23
    CPU
    AMD Athlon Silver 3050U
    Memory
    8GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    Radeon Graphics
    Monitor(s) Displays
    laptop screen
    Screen Resolution
    1366x768 native resolution, up to 2560x1440 with Radeon Virtual Super Resolution
    Hard Drives
    1TB Samsung EVO 870 SSD
    Internet Speed
    50 Mbps
    Browser
    Edge, Firefox
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    fully 'Windows 11 ready' laptop. Windows 10 C: partition migrated from my old unsupported 'main machine' then upgraded to 11. A test migration ran Insider builds for 2 months. When 11 was released on 5th October 2021 it was re-imaged back to 10 and was offered the upgrade in Windows Update on 20th October. Windows Update offered the 22H2 Feature Update on 20th September 2022. It got the 23H2 Feature Update on 4th November 2023 through Windows Update, and 24H2 on 3rd October 2024 through Windows Update by setting the Target Release Version for 24H2.

    My SYSTEM THREE is a Dell Latitude 5410, i7-10610U, 32GB RAM, 512GB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro (and all my Hyper-V VMs).

    My SYSTEM FOUR is a 2-in-1 convertible Lenovo Yoga 11e 20DA, Celeron N2930, 8GB RAM, 256GB ssd. Unsupported device: currently running Win10 Pro, plus Win11 Pro RTM and Insider Dev, Beta, and RP 24H2 as native boot vhdx.

    My SYSTEM FIVE is a Dell Latitude 3190 2-in-1, Pentium Silver N5030, 8GB RAM, 512GB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro, plus the Insider Beta, Dev, Canary, and Release Preview builds as a native boot .vhdx.
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell Latitude E4310
    CPU
    Intel® Core™ i5-520M
    Motherboard
    0T6M8G
    Memory
    8GB
    Graphics card(s)
    (integrated graphics) Intel HD Graphics
    Screen Resolution
    1366x768
    Hard Drives
    500GB Crucial MX500 SSD
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    unsupported machine: Legacy bios, MBR, TPM 1.2, upgraded from W10 to W11 using W10/W11 hybrid install media workaround. In-place upgrade to 22H2 using ISO and a workaround. Feature Update to 23H2 by manually installing the Enablement Package. In-place upgrade to 24H2 using hybrid 23H2/24H2 install media. Also running Insider Beta, Dev, and Canary builds as a native boot .vhdx.

    My SYSTEM THREE is a Dell Latitude 5410, i7-10610U, 32GB RAM, 512GB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro (and all my Hyper-V VMs).

    My SYSTEM FOUR is a 2-in-1 convertible Lenovo Yoga 11e 20DA, Celeron N2930, 8GB RAM, 256GB ssd. Unsupported device: currently running Win10 Pro, plus Win11 Pro RTM and Insider Dev, Beta, and RP 24H2 as native boot vhdx.

    My SYSTEM FIVE is a Dell Latitude 3190 2-in-1, Pentium Silver N5030, 8GB RAM, 512GB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro, plus the Insider Beta, Dev, Canary, and Release Preview builds as a native boot .vhdx.
So what did you achieve with all that unecessaey faffing around - a miniscule performance increase ?
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro + Win11 Canary VM.
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    ASUS Zenbook 14
    CPU
    I9 13th gen i9-13900H 2.60 GHZ
    Motherboard
    Yep, Laptop has one.
    Memory
    16 GB soldered
    Graphics Card(s)
    Integrated Intel Iris XE
    Sound Card
    Realtek built in
    Monitor(s) Displays
    laptop OLED screen
    Screen Resolution
    2880x1800 touchscreen
    Hard Drives
    1 TB NVME SSD (only weakness is only one slot)
    PSU
    Internal + 65W thunderbolt USB4 charger
    Case
    Yep, got one
    Cooling
    Stella Artois (UK pint cans - 568 ml) - extra cost.
    Keyboard
    Built in UK keybd
    Mouse
    Bluetooth , wireless dongled, wired
    Internet Speed
    900 mbs (ethernet), wifi 6 typical 350-450 mb/s both up and down
    Browser
    Edge
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    TPM 2.0, 2xUSB4 thunderbolt, 1xUsb3 (usb a), 1xUsb-c, hdmi out, 3.5 mm audio out/in combo, ASUS backlit trackpad (inc. switchable number pad)

    Macrium Reflect Home V8
    Office 365 Family (6 users each 1TB onedrive space)
    Hyper-V (a vm runs almost as fast as my older laptop)
Some possible additional obsessive / compulsive steps:


a) Check to see if the BIOS is up to date


b) Backup drivers:

www.elevenforum.com

Backup and Restore Device Drivers in Windows 11

This tutorial will show you how to back up and restore all 3rd party device drivers on your Windows 10 and Windows 11 PC. If you clean install Windows, you will need to install drivers for each device in the system. Some of these device drivers may no longer be available from the manufacturer...
www.elevenforum.com www.elevenforum.com


c) Create a restore point:

www.elevenforum.com

Create System Restore Point in Windows 11

This tutorial will show you how to manually create a restore point in Windows 11. Turning on system protection for a drive allows System Restore to include the drive when restore points are created so you can undo undesired system changes by reverting to a previous point in time. System...
www.elevenforum.com www.elevenforum.com


d) Create regback option:

www.elevenforum.com

Enable Automatic Backup of System Registry when Restart in Windows 11

This tutorial will show you how to enable automatic backup of the system registry to the RegBack folder when the computer restarts in Windows 10 and Windows 11. Starting with Windows 10, version 1803, Windows no longer automatically backs up the system registry to the RegBack folder when the...
www.elevenforum.com www.elevenforum.com


e) Run first scannow and restorehealth
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 10
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    HP
    CPU
    Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-4800MQ CPU @ 2.70GHz
    Motherboard
    Product : 190A Version : KBC Version 94.56
    Memory
    16 GB Total: Manufacturer : Samsung MemoryType : DDR3 FormFactor : SODIMM Capacity : 8GB Speed : 1600
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA Quadro K3100M; Intel(R) HD Graphics 4600
    Sound Card
    IDT High Definition Audio CODEC; PNP Device ID HDAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_111D&DEV_76E0
    Hard Drives
    Model Hitachi HTS727575A9E364
    Antivirus
    Microsoft Defender
    Other Info
    Mobile Workstation
There is a post install script/post update cleanup script attached to the bottom of this first post.

Windows 10 / 11 post WU installation cleanup script

Hey, folks, Thanks to a lot of wonderful folks here, we've made mention in a previous Insider topic about cleanup steps that can be run after Windows Update performs a major version install. Though these have been mentioned before by many, many people, it was this post by @IanMosley that...
www.elevenforum.com www.elevenforum.com
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro 23H2 Build 22631.4249
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Sin-built
    CPU
    Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-4770K CPU @ 3.50GHz (4th Gen?)
    Motherboard
    ASUS ROG Maximus VI Formula
    Memory
    32.0 GB of I forget and the box is in storage.
    Graphics Card(s)
    Gigabyte nVidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super OC 6GB
    Sound Card
    Onboard
    Monitor(s) Displays
    4 x LG 23MP75 - 2 x 24MK430H-B - 1 x Wacom Pro 22" Tablet
    Screen Resolution
    All over the place
    Hard Drives
    Too many to list.
    OS on Samsung 1TB 870 QVO SATA
    PSU
    Silverstone 1500
    Case
    NZXT Phantom 820 Full-Tower Case
    Cooling
    Noctua NH-D15 Elite Class Dual Tower CPU Cooler / 6 x EziDIY 120mm / 2 x Corsair 140mm somethings / 1 x 140mm Thermaltake something / 2 x 200mm Corsair.
    Keyboard
    Corsair K95 / Logitech diNovo Edge Wireless
    Mouse
    Logitech G402 / G502 / Mx Masters / MX Air Cordless
    Internet Speed
    100/40Mbps
    Browser
    All sorts
    Antivirus
    Kaspersky Premium
    Other Info
    I’m on a horse.
  • Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro 23H2 Build: 22631.4249
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    LENOVO Yoga 7i EVO OLED 14" Touchscreen i5 12 Core 16GB/512GB
    CPU
    Intel Core 12th Gen i5-1240P Processor (1.7 - 4.4GHz)
    Memory
    16GB LPDDR5 RAM
    Graphics card(s)
    Intel Iris Xe Graphics Processor
    Sound Card
    Optimized with Dolby Atmos®
    Screen Resolution
    QHD 2880 x 1800 OLED
    Hard Drives
    M.2 512GB
    Other Info
    …still on a horse.
DesignHeaad9206 said:
I look forward to your wisdom about what I could improve :)
Click to expand...
Here's what you forgot:

578px-Risperdal_tablets.jpg
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    11 Home
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Asus TUF Gaming F16 (2024)
    CPU
    i7 13650HX
    Memory
    16GB DDR5
    Graphics Card(s)
    GeForce RTX 4060 Mobile
    Sound Card
    Eastern Electric MiniMax DAC Supreme; Emotiva UMC-200; Astell & Kern AK240
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Sony Bravia XR-55X90J
    Screen Resolution
    3840×2160
    Hard Drives
    512GB SSD internal
    37TB external
    PSU
    Li-ion
    Cooling
    2× Arc Flow Fans, 4× exhaust vents, 5× heatpipes
    Keyboard
    Logitech K800
    Mouse
    Logitech G402
    Internet Speed
    20Mbit/s up, 250Mbit/s down
    Browser
    FF
  • Operating System
    11 Home
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Medion S15450
    CPU
    i5 1135G7
    Memory
    16GB DDR4
    Graphics card(s)
    Intel Iris Xe
    Sound Card
    Eastern Electric MiniMax DAC Supreme; Emotiva UMC-200; Astell & Kern AK240
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Sony Bravia XR-55X90J
    Screen Resolution
    3840×2160
    Hard Drives
    2TB SSD internal
    37TB external
    PSU
    Li-ion
    Mouse
    Logitech G402
    Keyboard
    Logitech K800
    Internet Speed
    20Mbit/s up, 250Mbit/s down
    Browser
    FF
zbook said:
Some possible additional obsessive / compulsive steps:
a) Check to see if the BIOS is up to date
...
e) Run first scannow and restorehealth
Click to expand...
I tried to do the Firmware update from the BIOS but it doesn't work.
Is this the same as "keeping the BIOS up to date?
Afaik, according to LG Update software and to what's in the LG support page for my model, there's no newer firmware / BIOS version.
It's from Phoenix Technologies.
Any tips to see if there indeed is a newer version?

What's scannow and restorehealth? :o
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win11 64 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    LG Gram 17 (2022)
cereberus said:
So what did you achieve with all that unecessaey faffing around - a miniscule performance increase ?
Click to expand...
The scope is not to make the system more performative, although I do notice that things are more snappy.
The scope is to debloat stuff that I don't need, stuff that are concerning in regard to privacy, and stuff that makes the UX more inconvenient for me.
And the main scope was to organize all in a methodical way which makes it more functional according to the limited knowledge that I possess atm (= without knowing how to write answer files or do other fancy nice things to automatize everything, and without knowing how to use Rufus and things like that).
For what my aim was, I consider the results very satisfactory.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win11 64 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    LG Gram 17 (2022)
DesignHeaad9206 said:
What's scannow and restorehealth? :plead:
Click to expand...


This script was designed to run in the background:


Batch files for use in BSOD debugging - Windows 10 Help Forums

Information This thread is for use by the BSOD team to store batch files that can be used to collect additional data, fix settings or anything else that is useful in debugging BSOD problems in Windows 10. The way I see it working is the first
www.tenforums.com www.tenforums.com

Batch files for use in BSOD debugging - Windows 10 Help Forums

Information This thread is for use by the BSOD team to store batch files that can be used to collect additional data, fix settings or anything else that is useful in debugging BSOD problems in Windows 10. The way I see it working is the first
www.tenforums.com www.tenforums.com
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 10
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    HP
    CPU
    Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-4800MQ CPU @ 2.70GHz
    Motherboard
    Product : 190A Version : KBC Version 94.56
    Memory
    16 GB Total: Manufacturer : Samsung MemoryType : DDR3 FormFactor : SODIMM Capacity : 8GB Speed : 1600
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA Quadro K3100M; Intel(R) HD Graphics 4600
    Sound Card
    IDT High Definition Audio CODEC; PNP Device ID HDAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_111D&DEV_76E0
    Hard Drives
    Model Hitachi HTS727575A9E364
    Antivirus
    Microsoft Defender
    Other Info
    Mobile Workstation
As for a "Clean Install" of Windows. It's not a 12 step program! Or worse!
I've said this many times before, but I guess one more time won't hurt.

Doing a Clean install of any Windows version is just a very simple Three Step Program.

1. Find and download a Windows ISO, from a Trusted Source.
2. Burn the ISO to a clean Flash Drive, using the latest "Rufus".
3, Use the new Flash Drive, to boot up the PC and perform the Windows Install.

When the install is complete, tweak and tune Windows to your hearts content. Then install your favorite programs.*

* I keep all my tweaks, as well as my favorite programs on one large Flash Drive, to simplify install.

I can usually pull that off in less than an hour. I've done it so many times now, it's "Easy Peasy".

My data files are NEVER on my C: drive, so they really don't get involved in a Clean Install.

Cheers Mates,
TM :cool:
 

My Computer

System One

Install the OS while offline. Keep it offline until AFTER using GPO to set windows updates to notify before downloading or installing. Use GPO to disable notifications for windows updates. Then go online and use WuMgr portable to check for, select or hide desired updates, and install desired. If you hide them from the list, they won’t show again unless you unhide them.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
i long time ago, i used to tinker a lot more with my computers than I do these days. I attribute it to the fact that I'm an IT guy for a living and honestly when I get home, I just want my stuff to work and I don't want to constantly futz with it.

I can appreciate a clean install, however I really put 0 effort into try to really minimize any resource usage on the box. I clean install, I connect to the Internet, I let Windows update run until it's down, I install 3rd party drivers for anything else in device manager that might be broken, and then I take an image that I call my vanilla image. Unless I run into problems in the next few days, it's highly unlikely I would use that image, but I have it just in case. I then sit down and install the handful of apps that I use on a regular basis. Once i have them installed and basics configured, I take one more image called base with apps.

As long as it's running okay, not bluescreening, or sitting at 100% CPU usage, I consider it good enough. I don't care if there are 77 processes running, I don't really care if it's taking 32.1GB of storage, or 24.42GB. I'll check a few benchmarks to make sure that my hardware is approximately where it should be. For example, my Gen 4 PCIe WD SN850 should score around 7000 read and 5100 write. If it's 6600 and 4750...it's right in the ballpark. If on the other hand, it's 2100 and 1400....well then I am going to take a look at the drivers and try to get it corrected.

Other than that, I figure that all the time i spent trying to tweak the bejezus out of everything is going to far and away exceed the extra time my computer would take without making those changes and thus i'm wasting precious time rather than gaining. it.
 
Last edited:

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Beelink SEI8
    CPU
    Intel Core i5-8279u
    Motherboard
    AZW SEI
    Memory
    32GB DDR4 2666Mhz
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Iris Plus 655
    Sound Card
    Intel SST
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Asus ProArt PA278QV
    Screen Resolution
    2560x1440
    Hard Drives
    512GB NVMe
    PSU
    NA
    Case
    NA
    Cooling
    NA
    Keyboard
    NA
    Mouse
    NA
    Internet Speed
    500/50
    Browser
    Edge
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    Mini PC used for testing Windows 11.
  • Operating System
    Windows 10 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Custom
    CPU
    Ryzen 9 5900x
    Motherboard
    Asus Rog Strix X570-E Gaming
    Memory
    64GB DDR4-3600
    Graphics card(s)
    EVGA GeForce 3080 FT3 Ultra
    Sound Card
    Onboard
    Monitor(s) Displays
    ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ. ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27” WQHD
    Screen Resolution
    2560x1440
    Hard Drives
    2TB WD SN850 PCI-E Gen 4 NVMe
    2TB Sandisk Ultra 2.5" SATA SSD
    PSU
    Seasonic Focus 850
    Case
    Fractal Meshify S2 in White
    Cooling
    Dark Rock Pro CPU cooler, 3 x 140mm case fans
    Mouse
    Logitech G9 Laser Mouse
    Keyboard
    Corsiar K65 RGB Lux
    Internet Speed
    500/50
    Browser
    Chrome
    Antivirus
    Defender.
I can sympathize with the previous poster. I was a professional PC tech/builder for 40+ years, and I enjoyed my downtime to ride my motorcycle, play some pool and just relax.
But that was then. And now I'm retired and on Social Security so I can't afford the outside activities that I used to enjoy.
Putting my years of experience with computers to use, is now my Hobby. I just love grabbing a new version of an older OS and seeing what I can do with it.
I'm currently running Win-11, 24H2, (Lite) that has been totally Decrapified, and it's the fastest OS I've ever run, since DOS 6.22.
It installs quickly, then goes on line to get a few hardware drivers, then Updates get Disabled. Then I tweak and tune to my own preference, and install my browser and a few necessary programs, like, my email program, Libre Office, and "Super Anti Spyware".
All told, in less than an hour, I've got a new OS installed, and up and running, and I'm ready to send and receive emails, and search the web, and just do my daily routine. I just try to keep it all as simple as possible.
I don't have a lot of time left, and I don't want to waste it!

Cheers Mates
TM :cool:
 

My Computer

System One

My primary box at home still runs Windows 10. I use it for running VM's and for playing games mostly. I installed Windows 10 around December of 2020. Haven't reinstalled it since.

I have a Beelink mini PC running Windows 11. I installed that in October of 2021 and haven't reinstalled it since.

Both are running absolutely fantastic. I guess I don't clutter up my boxes as almost everything that I play and test with happens in a VM.
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Beelink SEI8
    CPU
    Intel Core i5-8279u
    Motherboard
    AZW SEI
    Memory
    32GB DDR4 2666Mhz
    Graphics Card(s)
    Intel Iris Plus 655
    Sound Card
    Intel SST
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Asus ProArt PA278QV
    Screen Resolution
    2560x1440
    Hard Drives
    512GB NVMe
    PSU
    NA
    Case
    NA
    Cooling
    NA
    Keyboard
    NA
    Mouse
    NA
    Internet Speed
    500/50
    Browser
    Edge
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    Mini PC used for testing Windows 11.
  • Operating System
    Windows 10 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Custom
    CPU
    Ryzen 9 5900x
    Motherboard
    Asus Rog Strix X570-E Gaming
    Memory
    64GB DDR4-3600
    Graphics card(s)
    EVGA GeForce 3080 FT3 Ultra
    Sound Card
    Onboard
    Monitor(s) Displays
    ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ. ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27” WQHD
    Screen Resolution
    2560x1440
    Hard Drives
    2TB WD SN850 PCI-E Gen 4 NVMe
    2TB Sandisk Ultra 2.5" SATA SSD
    PSU
    Seasonic Focus 850
    Case
    Fractal Meshify S2 in White
    Cooling
    Dark Rock Pro CPU cooler, 3 x 140mm case fans
    Mouse
    Logitech G9 Laser Mouse
    Keyboard
    Corsiar K65 RGB Lux
    Internet Speed
    500/50
    Browser
    Chrome
    Antivirus
    Defender.
dacrone said:
Install the OS while offline. Keep it offline until AFTER using GPO to set windows updates to notify before downloading or installing. Use GPO to disable notifications for windows updates. Then go online and use WuMgr portable to check for, select or hide desired updates, and install desired. If you hide them from the list, they won’t show again unless you unhide them.
Click to expand...
What are the advantages of disabling also the notification of available updates in this case?
At this point, couldn't I directly disable the WU service?

About the WuMgr, do you mean the old (discontinued but it still works somehow) wushowhide.diagcab from Microsoft? Or is it something third party? If so, is it open source?

Thanks :)
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win11 64 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    LG Gram 17 (2022)
pparks1 said:
As long as it's running okay, not bluescreening, or sitting at 100% CPU usage, I consider it good enough.

Other than that, I figure that all the time i spent trying to tweak the bejezus out of everything is going to far and away exceed the extra time my computer would take without making those changes and thus i'm wasting precious time rather than gaining. it.
Click to expand...
I would probably do the same if I had the money to buy a new laptop (or maybe even better a PC and a laptop, so I don't need the laptop to be light and powerful - which usually means noisy because to make them light and thin they sacrifice cooling-).
But until I am stuck with this one, I need to skim all what I don't need that would contribute to trigger the fans.
And I'm telling you, just only using AdGuard instead of uBlock Origin as Firefox addon DOES make a difference. Every time that I use AdGuard because it can block something that uBlock can't, the fans are immediately triggered.

The only thing I would still do anyway even on a powerful and silent system is disabling all what concerns me for privacy, like telemetry, error reporting etc.
 

My Computer

System One

  • OS
    Win11 64 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    LG Gram 17 (2022)
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