bootable media Archives

Winsage

October 27, 2025

Can you still bypass Windows 11 requirements as Windows 10 hits EOL? We tested it

Windows 11 requires a 1GHz dual-core CPU that supports TPM 2.0 and at least 4GB of RAM. Users with older PCs running Windows 10 can still install Windows 11 25H2 using known bypass methods, even if their hardware does not meet these specifications. The installation methods include using a command line for an in-place upgrade, utilizing Rufus to create a bootable USB, or editing the Registry during setup. The Windows 11 ISO file is approximately 7.20 GB in size and can be downloaded from Microsoft's official site. Users can revert to Windows 10 by navigating to Settings > System > Recovery and selecting "Go back."

Winsage

October 1, 2025

Windows 11 version 25H2 rolls out: All the new features, how to install, and more – The Times of India

Microsoft began rolling out the Windows 11 version 25H2 update on September 30, 2025. This update enhances user experience with improved security features and AI-powered tools, designed as a compact enablement package for users of Windows 11 24H2. It introduces new AI functionalities in File Explorer, including reverse image searches, background blurring, and object removal. The Click to Do functionality has been refined for Copilot+ PCs. Version 25H2 shares its codebase with 24H2, ensuring both receive identical monthly feature updates. Microsoft has improved vulnerability detection and AI-assisted secure coding for enhanced security. New customization options include repositioning on-screen indicators for volume and brightness, along with performance enhancements in File Explorer and a redesigned Advanced Settings page. The update is being gradually deployed through Windows Update, with several installation methods available, including the Installation Assistant, Media Creation Tool, and ISO file. Users on version 24H2 will receive a swift cumulative update, while those on older versions will need to reinstall. Microsoft has removed legacy components like PowerShell 2.0 and plans to monitor compatibility issues during the rollout.

Winsage

October 1, 2025

How to force install the Windows 11 2025 Update (version 25H2)

Microsoft has begun the rollout of the Windows 11 2025 Update (version 25H2) for compatible devices. This update is a minor cumulative release that does not require a complete reinstallation for users on version 24H2, but those on version 23H2 must upgrade to version 24H2 first. To install the Windows 11 2025 Update from Settings, users should open Settings, click on Windows Update, enable the toggle for getting the latest updates, check for updates, download and install, and then restart the device. For users upgrading from version 23H2 or earlier, the Installation Assistant can be used, which involves downloading the tool from the Microsoft support website and following the prompts to install the update, requiring a complete reinstallation. The Media Creation Tool can also be used to create a USB bootable media for the update, which necessitates a complete reinstallation. Alternatively, users can download the official ISO file from the Microsoft support website, mount the image, and run the setup to upgrade while preserving files, settings, and applications. The availability of version 25H2 was announced on September 30, 2025, and users should check for updates regarding the rollout schedule for their specific devices.

Winsage

September 29, 2025

I used DISM to create a Windows installer with all my apps, and here’s how it works

To back up a Windows 11 image, start with a fresh installation and use the Sysprep tool to generalize the system, avoiding Microsoft Store apps to prevent Sysprep failure. Prepare two external drives: one for storing the Windows image (minimum 8GB) and another bootable drive configured with Windows Preinstallation Environment (Windows PE). Download the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK) and the Windows PE add-on to create the bootable USB drive. Enter Audit Mode by pressing Ctrl+Shift+F3 at the out-of-box experience screen, disable app updates, and install desired applications for the entire system. Use Sysprep to enter Out of Box Experience (OOBE), check Generalize, and select Shutdown. Boot from the Windows PE drive, use diskpart to identify drive letters, and capture the image with the DISM command. To apply the image on a new PC, create a diskpart script for partitioning and a batch script for applying the image. Boot the new PC from the Windows PE drive, run the diskpart script to create partitions, and execute the batch script to apply the image. This method is efficient for deploying consistent applications across multiple PCs.

Winsage

April 16, 2025

What does Microsoft’s new ReFS file system mean for Windows?

The NTFS file system has been the default for Windows operating systems for decades, but Microsoft is developing the Resilient File System (ReFS), which has been in use primarily in Windows Server environments since its introduction in 2012. ReFS is designed to enhance system and data resilience, featuring error detection and correction capabilities, a data integrity scanner, and the ability to repair detected corruption using another volume. It supports file and volume sizes up to 35 petabytes and includes advanced features like Block Clone and Sparse VDL, which improve performance in specific scenarios. However, ReFS is not a full replacement for NTFS, as it lacks several critical features such as file system compression, encryption, bootable media support, and support for removable media. Its current limitations make it unsuitable for typical home PC use, and while it may eventually replace NTFS, this transition is not expected to happen soon. ReFS is primarily designed for specialized applications involving large data sets and environments with multiple drives.

Winsage

March 28, 2025

How to easily create an unattended answer file for Windows 11

On Windows 11, an answer file named autounattend.xml can be created to streamline the installation process by bypassing setup steps. To create this file, users need to install the DISMTools application, which provides a wizard for generating the unattended file. The installation of DISMTools involves using Command Prompt to run the command: winget install CodingWondersSoftware.DISMTools.Preview. To create the unattended file, users launch DISMTools, navigate to the "Unattended answer file creator," and follow the wizard to configure settings such as system language, processor architecture, disk settings, product key, account settings, and network settings. The final step is saving the file as autounattend.xml. To integrate the answer file into Windows 11 installation media, users download the Media Creation Tool, select the USB flash drive option, and copy the autounattend.xml file to the USB drive. This prepares the USB for an unattended installation of Windows 11. The XML file may also appear as "unattend.xml" in other contexts.

Winsage

March 19, 2025

How to transfer your Windows 11 setup to a new hard drive — no extra app required

Users of Windows 11 may need to upgrade their hard drive due to space constraints or the drive nearing the end of its lifespan, typically within three to five years. They can create a system image backup using the Backup and Restore feature in Windows 11. To create a system image, users must access the Control Panel, navigate to System and Security, and select "Create a system image." The backup can be saved on a hard disk, and users can choose to include additional drives. To create a USB bootable media for recovery, users should visit the Windows 11 download page, download the Media Creation Tool, and follow the prompts to create a USB flash drive. Replacing the hard drive involves powering down the computer, removing the cover, disconnecting cables, and installing the new drive. After installation, users can restore the previous Windows 11 installation from the system image backup by booting from the USB drive and selecting "System Image Recovery." If the new drive has unallocated space, users can create a new partition or expand the existing setup partition. To create a data partition, users can access Settings, navigate to Storage, and create a new volume from unallocated space. To expand the setup partition, users must delete the recovery partition, extend the installation drive, and recreate the recovery partition using Command Prompt and Disk Management. Finally, users should re-enable BitLocker after completing these processes.

Winsage

February 6, 2025

Microsoft script updates bootable media for BlackLotus bootkit fixes

Microsoft has released a PowerShell script to help users and administrators update bootable media, integrating the "Windows UEFI CA 2023" certificate. This update is in response to the BlackLotus UEFI bootkit, which can bypass Secure Boot and disable Windows security features. Microsoft has issued prior updates in March 2023 and plans additional measures for July 2024, addressing a Secure Boot bypass vulnerability (CVE-2023-24932). The fix will be rolled out in phases before full enforcement anticipated by 2026. The update will include the "Windows UEFI CA 2023" certificate in the UEFI Secure Boot Signature Database and revoke the "Windows Production CA 2011" certificate for older boot managers. Administrators are advised to update bootable media to use the new certificate to avoid booting issues. The PowerShell script is compatible with various media formats and requires the Windows ADK for functionality. Microsoft recommends thorough testing before the enforcement phase, which will begin by the end of 2026, with a six-month notice prior to implementation.