Claude Code wrote the Windows setup script I kept putting off, and my fresh installs now finish in 20 minutes

Throughout the process of installing a fresh copy of Windows, the author consistently follows a similar routine. Initially, they install a preferred web browser like Brave, download various everyday applications, disable annoying Windows settings, and remove unnecessary bloatware. The author acknowledges the potential of a setup script to automate this repetitive task but finds the process of compiling a script consisting of PowerShell commands, app IDs, and registry edits too tedious, thus postponing the task.

The author decides to let Claude Code, an AI, handle the creation of such a script. Claude promptly generates a PowerShell script that sets up a Windows system according to the author's preferences, completing the task in just a few minutes. No longer having to remember individual settings, the author appreciates Claude's assistance in streamlining the setup process.

Claude's script is divided into sections for easy review and modification, including the apps to install, Explorer preferences, disabled features, and terminal appearance. It also includes a check before making changes, ensuring that rerunning the script won't cause any issues. A summary at the end provides a breakdown of all the actions performed by the script.

Claude Code not only researches the necessary package IDs for winget and the required registry values but also provides commands for these tasks. However, the installation of Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) requires a reboot, followed by a RunOnce entry to complete the process. The script installs apps before proceeding with other modifications.

After installing apps, winget installs commonly used software such as Notepad++, Brave web browser, 7-Zip, VLC, Everything, VS Code, PowerToys, and several other programs using a simple loop. The script incorporates strict package ID matching for official installations and minimizes prompts during installation.

Following the app installations, Claude Code executes a series of registry edits to toggle various settings, such as enabling dark mode system-wide, showing hidden files and file extensions, opening Explorer to the This PC folder by default, and confirming before sending files to the Recycle Bin. This is achieved with a single command per registry value, supplemented by variables for repetitive sections.

The script then proceeds to debloat Windows by removing system annoyances like Copilot, Recall, Bing results in the Start menu, widgets, and Start menu recommendations. Finally, the script concludes with terminal settings adjustments and installing WSL. Upon rebooting, Ubuntu opens for the author to finalize WSL setup, as it's the only step that requires user input.

The author warns that editing registry keys or executing unknown PowerShell commands can lead to disastrous consequences, urging readers to treat Claude's generated script with caution. A new update might render some commands obsolete, so checking the script's logs after execution is advised. PowerShell scripts are plain text files, making it easy to verify commands against online documentation.

Claude Code even cites its sources, allowing for easy verification of the information provided. Testing the script using Windows Sandbox is recommended to ensure its effectiveness before applying it to the actual system. The author emphasizes the value of Claude Code in finally completing a setup script that they had been putting off, highlighting the potential benefits of leveraging AI to automate tedious tasks.