Step-by-Step: Creating a Clean Windows 11 Install Using Tiny11Builder

AI-generated, human-reviewed.

If you’re tired of all the pre-installed apps, forced telemetry, and persistent prompts in Windows 11, there’s a smart solution: Tiny11Builder. On Hands-On Windows, Paul Thurrott walked through how this free PowerShell script can help you create a custom Windows 11 install that removes nearly all the clutter and "insurified" annoyances—making your PC faster, cleaner, and more under your control.

What Is Tiny11Builder and Why Use It?

Tiny11Builder is an open-source PowerShell script you run against a Windows 11 ISO file (the official installer image from Microsoft). Unlike post-install utilities, Tiny11Builder strips out unwanted features, apps, and even disables telemetry before you install Windows, giving you a truly clean slate. It’s especially attractive if you want to eliminate Microsoft Edge, Copilot, OneDrive, and other unwanted services from the start.

Paul Thurrott found Tiny11Builder incredibly effective for reducing bloat and intrusive behaviors in Windows 11—though it’s a more technical solution, requiring you to make new installation media and fully reinstall your OS.

How Tiny11Builder Works

• Download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s official site.
• Download Tiny11Builder from GitHub and extract it.
• Use PowerShell as an administrator to run the script on your ISO.
• Customize the script if you want to keep certain default apps (optional).
• Tiny11Builder creates a modified ISO that you can use to perform a fresh Windows install—either on a USB drive (recommended via Rufus) or directly from your device.

The process wipes out most “Inbox apps” (Edge, Copilot, OneDrive, etc.), disables forced telemetry, and leaves you with a barebones yet functional installation.

Note: This process requires a clean install—existing installations won't be modified, so ensure you've backed up any important data.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Removes most unwanted default apps and services (Edge, Copilot, OneDrive).
• Disables telemetry.
• Cleaner, faster Windows install.
• Script is open-source and can be reviewed for transparency.

Cons

• Requires a full reinstall of Windows—this is not an in-place “cleanup.”
• By default, removes all Inbox apps (even useful ones like Paint or Camera—you can edit the script to keep them).
• Customizing the script requires editing PowerShell code.
• Not recommended for users uncomfortable with technical setup steps.

Advanced Customization Options

If you need certain apps (like Microsoft Paint, Snipping Tool, or Xbox), you can manually edit the Tiny11Builder script to preserve them. Otherwise, you can reinstall any desired apps from the Microsoft Store post-setup.

Paul Thurrott highlights that, for many, the tiny extra investment of time pays off with a less intrusive system. Using tools like winget (the Windows command-line installer), it’s easy to reinstall browsers (Chrome, Brave, etc.) and other essentials fast.

Post-Install Setup: What Should You Do Next?

1. Update Windows and drivers via Windows Update and Advanced options for optional updates.
2. Update or reinstall apps from the Microsoft Store or using winget.
3. Install your preferred browser since Edge is not installed (use winget install or download manually).
4. Optionally, use MS Edge Redirect (available on GitHub) to reroute widget and OS-level links to your chosen browser, and PowerToys to remap specialty keys (like Copilot) if needed.

Key Takeaways

• Tiny11Builder offers a powerful way to eliminate unwanted features and improve privacy in Windows 11—ideal for power users or those who resent Microsoft’s forced add-ons.
• The process is more technical and should be approached with care (and with a backup).
• Customization is possible for those comfortable editing scripts.
• For most users, the biggest gain is a less cluttered, smoother Windows experience with fewer interruptions and better control.

The Bottom Line

For anyone frustrated by Windows 11 bloat, forced telemetry, and relentless Microsoft promotions, Tiny11Builder could be the solution—provided you’re comfortable with a technical setup and a full reinstall. You’ll benefit from a cleaner system and only the features you truly want. For ultimate flexibility, combine Tiny11Builder with Rufus and optional PowerToys or MS Edge Redirect for a truly personalized setup.

Ready to streamline your Windows install and take back control? Check out the full episode for a step-by-step demonstration and more expert insights.

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