Fans of streamlined computing have a new option to explore in the realm of Windows debloating. NTDEV, the innovative mind behind the popular Tiny11 project, has unveiled Nano11 Builder—a PowerShell script that takes the concept of a lightweight operating system to an even more extreme level. While Tiny11 offered a more flexible alternative to the standard Windows 11 installation, Nano11 Builder automates the creation of an installer image that is significantly smaller than its predecessor.
The primary aim of Nano11 Builder is to furnish developers and testers with a minimalist environment that includes only the essential components. Although it is not intended for everyday use, initial tests indicate that it performs effectively in its niche.
Accessible through NTDEV’s platform, Nano11 Builder leverages Microsoft’s own Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) capabilities alongside the official oscdimg.exe tool to generate a bootable ISO image. The script meticulously strips away nearly all non-essential elements from Windows 11, eliminating bloatware such as Clipchamp, Xbox, and Solitaire. However, the removal process goes much deeper, excising core system components including:
- Windows Component Store
- Windows Update
- Windows Defender
- Internet Explorer
- Microsoft Edge
- OneDrive
- Language packs
- Accessibility tools
- Most system services
- Audio support
This focus on extreme minimalism comes at the cost of daily usability, as the resulting system presents significant trade-offs.
Nano11 issues
Due to the extensive removal of components, images created with Nano11 Builder face several limitations. They cannot be updated or expanded with new features, drivers, or languages. Furthermore, security features and common utilities typically found in a standard installation are absent.
NTDEV emphasizes that Nano11 is purely experimental and is best suited for testing, embedded applications, or small virtual machines where stability and serviceability are not paramount. In terms of size, the standard Windows 11 ISO, which typically weighs in at 7.04GB, can be reduced to a mere 2.29GB using Nano11 Builder. For the Long Term Servicing Channel edition, the installed footprint can shrink to as little as 2.8GB.
As an open-source project, Nano11 Builder invites users to download, modify, and adapt the script to meet their specific needs. For those curious about its functionality, a demonstration video is available below.
