In the wake of the recent release of Windows 11 feature update version 24H2, NTDEV, a developer known for its innovative projects like “Tiny11” and “Tiny10,” has unveiled a remarkably lightweight version of this update. NTDEV has garnered attention for its commitment to creating streamlined versions of Windows that consume minimal resources, making them suitable for older or less powerful machines.
Following the launch of 24H2, Microsoft introduced Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, a specialized version of the operating system tailored for businesses and organizations that prefer less frequent updates. NTDEV has taken this version and transformed it into a compact form, aptly named Tiny11. The developers shared their achievement on social media, illustrating that this version could comfortably fit on a DVD—a medium that holds approximately 4.7 GB of data. Remarkably, NTDEV’s Tiny11 occupies only 3.54 GB, leaving ample space on the disc.
The team attributes their success to the use of LZX delta compression, an advanced technique that reduces file sizes while retaining crucial information. This method leverages the sophisticated compression capabilities embedded within Windows 11’s NTFS file system.
Food for thought about hardware requirements
Versions like Tiny11 have gained popularity among users not only for their compact size but also for their minimal memory requirements. This efficiency allows devices to allocate more memory to other tasks, enhancing overall performance even on underpowered systems. Previous reports from Neowin highlighted NTDEV’s ability to run Tiny11 with a mere 176MB of RAM, a stark contrast to the 4 GB typically required for standard Windows 11 installations.
In a further display of ingenuity, NTDEV also created a “text-only” version of Windows 11 that operates with just 100MB of RAM by eliminating the graphical interface, which includes familiar elements like the Start menu and the iconic windows that define the operating system.
For those willing to experiment, installing Tiny11 on a personal computer is an option, though even users who prefer the full version of Windows 11 can appreciate NTDEV’s remarkable achievements. Their work underscores the potential for running modern operating systems on minimal hardware, allowing older machines to utilize Windows 10 and 11 effectively.
As the demands for hardware performance continue to escalate, initiatives like NTDEV’s highlight both the creativity of developers and the efficiency of software design. This approach not only extends the lifespan of devices but also offers a promising perspective on how we can balance technological innovation with environmental considerations in an era increasingly focused on sustainability.
