As the clock ticks down to October 2025, when support for Windows 10 officially concludes, a growing number of users are exploring alternative solutions to ensure their systems remain secure and up-to-date. For those whose devices may not meet the stringent requirements for Windows 11, there exists a creative workaround: installing the operating system on unsupported hardware through a specially tailored ISO. This approach leverages a community-endorsed tool known as MicroWin, which emphasizes both performance and privacy.
Install a lightweight Windows 11 with MicroWin
To embark on this journey, the first step is to open the Windows terminal as an administrator and execute the following command:
irm "https://christitus.com/win" | iex
This command activates WinUtil, a utility crafted by system customization aficionado Chris Titus. Once the utility is up and running, navigate to the MicroWin tab to initiate the creation of your personalized Windows 11 image.
MicroWin facilitates the downloading of the latest official ISO directly from Microsoft’s servers, currently featuring version 24H2. After selecting your preferred edition—be it Home or Pro—you have the opportunity to customize various elements, including your local username and password, or even opt to bypass driver injection.
Once you have tailored your settings to your liking, simply click “Start the process” to generate a modified ISO. This customized version will be considerably lighter, stripping away unnecessary components to enhance overall performance. Upon completion of this process, utilize a tool like UnetBootin to transfer the ISO onto a USB drive, paving the way for installation.
After successfully installing Windows 11, you can revisit WinUtil to install additional free applications or make further adjustments to your settings. This innovative method not only extends the lifespan of older PCs but also offers a practical solution as users transition beyond the impending end-of-life deadline for Windows 10.
