ISO images Archives

Winsage

October 11, 2025

The Truth About Windows XP License Key: FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8

On October 10, Dave W. Plummer, a Microsoft engineer, revealed that the infamous Windows XP license key FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8 was the result of an internal data breach rather than a software crack. The key was initially a Volume License Key (VLK) meant for corporate use, but management oversight led to its exposure, allowing it to spread among hackers. The Windows Product Activation (WPA) system allowed this key to bypass verification processes, making it easy for users to install unauthorized versions of Windows XP. The proliferation of "pre-activated" Windows XP CDs and ISO images led to widespread piracy. Microsoft eventually blacklisted the key and eliminated the VLK mechanism with the introduction of Service Pack 2 (SP2).

Winsage

September 20, 2025

Here’s how I installed Windows 11 using a nano-sized 2.4GB ISO — final install weighed in at a mere 8.36GB, two-thirds the size of a normal Windows install, courtesy of Nano11 Builder

The author is transitioning to Windows 11 and is waiting to complete an IT request form. They are primarily a Linux and Raspberry Pi enthusiast but are interested in Windows 11 for video editing with DaVinci Resolve. The standard Microsoft Windows 11 ISO is 5,695,402KB (5.69GB), while the Tiny version is 10,865,098,752KB (10.1GB) and 59.1% smaller, and the Nano version is 8,984,236,032KB (8.36GB) and 66.2% smaller. The author used a VirtualBox virtual machine with 8GB of RAM and a Lenovo X220 for installations. The Nano and Tiny ISOs installed smoothly, while the full ISO faced issues despite meeting specifications. The Nano installation initially crashed at 75%, but after following a guide and reverting to an older setup process, it was successful. The author plans to submit the IT request form before October 14.

Winsage

September 9, 2025

This Windows 11 repair trick fixes nearly every Windows problem

File corruption is a common issue in computing that can lead to problems such as the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) and slowdowns. Windows provides built-in tools like System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) to address these issues, which can function offline. Users are advised to download fresh Windows installation files as ISO images for Windows 10 and 11 for troubleshooting. DISM can assess and repair Windows image files using a live USB, with a specific command format to run it. After using DISM, it is recommended to run SFC at least twice to ensure all issues are resolved. DISM can also service and prepare .wim or .vhd/vhdx format Windows images for virtual environments. Using DISM and SFC offline can restore computer functionality more efficiently than a complete reinstallation.

Winsage

September 7, 2025

Custom Windows 11 builder axes Microsoft’s AI features, whack-a-moling Copilot, Outlook, and Teams — new Tiny11 Builder release should be Windows 11 25H2 ready

NTDEV has released an updated version of Tiny11 Builder, which allows users to create streamlined installations of Windows 11. The new version can remove applications like Copilot, Outlook, and Teams and is compatible with Windows 11 25H2. It supports all Windows 11 SKUs and languages for both x64 and arm64 architectures and has been tested on Windows 11 24H2, 25H2, and Canary Build 27934. Tiny11 Builder operates through a PowerShell script called tiny11maker.ps1, which reduces a Windows ISO obtained from Microsoft. Users need oscdimg.exe from the Windows ADK to bypass Windows 11 system requirements. The distribution package includes an unattended answer file for a smoother OOBE experience. A 'Tiny11 core Builder' option is also available for testing, creating smaller Windows 11 images but lacking certain serviceability features.

Winsage

June 25, 2025

Before Windows 10 goes EOL, I’m testing three alternative Linux distros to save my 6-year-old laptop from the landfill

The CachyOS installer offers an aesthetically pleasing yet somewhat confusing installation experience, particularly regarding the Bootloader selection, where the default is Systemd-boot instead of the more familiar Grub. Additionally, the additional package installer lacks sufficient context, which may confuse users. The installation process has become more streamlined compared to the past, where users had to deal with multiple ISO images and CDs. Now, one can easily create a Live USB using software like Rufus, Raspberry Pi Imager, or Balena Etcher. A Live USB allows users to test the operating system before installation and serves various purposes such as troubleshooting and data recovery. The author is installing CachyOS on a Lenovo X390 laptop with 8GB of RAM and an Intel Core i5-8265U.

Winsage

November 15, 2024

Microsoft finally releases Windows 11 on Arm ISO

Microsoft has released ISO images of Windows 11 for Arm architecture, specifically for the current version, Windows 11 24H2. This release simplifies access to Windows on Arm, allowing users to create bootable installations. Devices with Snapdragon X Series processors can operate without additional drivers, while earlier Snapdragon generations will require driver injection to avoid boot failures. Users can also set up virtual machines using the ISO, but it does not support native Windows operation on Apple Silicon. The release aims to bolster the appeal of Microsoft's Copilot+ PCs and enhance support for the Arm ecosystem.