Tiny11 puts Windows 11 on a diet without the PowerShell workout

Tiny11 Builder, a tool for creating leaner Windows 11 installation images, now features a desktop app preview that reduces the reliance on PowerShell expertise. The creator explains that Tiny11 Builder aims to become the go-to solution for developing lightweight, secure, and efficient Windows images. The tool generates an ISO image for Windows installation, eliminating unnecessary bundled applications and selected system components.

It supports Windows 11 installation media from 22H2 onward, including 26H2, resulting in a significantly smaller image compared to Microsoft's original.

The most noticeable alteration is a WinUI 3 desktop application utilizing a new C# image builder instead of running the existing PowerShell scripts through a graphical interface. While the PowerShell scripts are still available, the new interface provides a more polished experience. There are three basic build modes: Tiny11, which removes bundled apps while keeping Windows Update, Defender, and recovery tools; Tiny11 Core, which disables updates and Defender and permanently removes components, including the recovery environment; and a custom option where users can choose which Windows elements to include or exclude from the ISO image.

Although Tiny11 Builder is a remarkable technical achievement, it is crucial to note that the created ISOs are not supported by Microsoft. If the Tiny11 Core build is chosen, the author advises using test virtual machines only. This is primarily for tech enthusiasts who understand that a smaller installation may lead to missing functionality, security trade-offs, and support complications.

Furthermore, there is no assurance that bypassing certain aspects of Windows 11 installation will work properly. As stated in the project's repository, local-account and hardware-check settings are best effort, not guaranteed bypasses on newer builds.

In essence, Tiny11 Builder focuses on stripping unnecessary elements from the Windows 11 installation image. Similar to previous versions, a license is still required, and the ISO, while debloated, remains Microsoft Windows 11. The author emphasizes that no modifications bypass Windows licensing or activation. The appeal of removing Microsoft's excesses is evident, but whether the reduced footprint is worth the loss of components and potential support issues depends on the user's preferences for what to remove.