tiny11builder Project Description

What is the project about?

The project provides PowerShell scripts to automate the creation of a trimmed-down, customized Windows 11 image, similar to the "tiny11" distribution. It focuses on removing unnecessary components to create a smaller, potentially faster, and less resource-intensive Windows installation. There are two main scripts: one for a more usable tiny11, and "tiny11 core builder" for a very minimal, development-focused image.

What problem does it solve?

The project addresses the issue of "bloatware" and unnecessary components in a standard Windows 11 installation. It allows users to create a leaner operating system image, potentially improving performance, reducing storage space requirements, and providing a cleaner user experience. It also bypasses the Microsoft Account requirement during the initial setup (OOBE).

What are the features of the project?

• Automated Image Creation: Uses PowerShell scripts to automate the process of modifying a standard Windows 11 ISO.
• Component Removal: Removes a predefined list of applications and features (e.g., Clipchamp, News, Weather, Xbox, Office Hub, Edge, OneDrive, and many more).
• Choice of Base Image: Allows the user to select any Windows 11 release, language, and architecture.
• Unattended Installation: Includes an answer file to automate the installation process and bypass the Microsoft Account requirement.
• Compact Installation: Deploys the image with the /compact flag, further reducing the installation size.
• tiny11 core: Offers a "core" version that removes even more components (including WinSxS, Defender, and Windows Update) for a minimal development/testing environment. Crucially, this version is not serviceable (updates, feature additions, etc., are not possible).
• Optional .NET 3.5 support.
• Disables Telemetry (as of the 04-29-24 release).

What are the technologies used in the project?

• PowerShell: The core scripting language used for automation.
• DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management): A built-in Windows command-line tool used to modify Windows images.
• oscdimg.exe: A tool from the Windows ADK (Assessment and Deployment Kit) used to create bootable ISO images.
• Unattended Answer Files (XML): Used to automate the Windows setup process.

What are the benefits of the project?

• Reduced Footprint: Smaller installation size, saving disk space.
• Potentially Improved Performance: Fewer background processes and services may lead to better performance, especially on lower-end hardware.
• Cleaner Experience: Removes unwanted applications and features, providing a less cluttered user interface.
• Customization: Provides a starting point for users to further customize their Windows 11 installation.
• Open Source: Allows users to inspect, modify, and contribute to the project.
• Bypass Microsoft Account Requirement: Simplifies the initial setup process.

What are the use cases of the project?

• Virtual Machines: Creating lightweight Windows 11 VMs for testing or development.
• Low-Spec Hardware: Installing Windows 11 on older or less powerful computers.
• Minimalist Installations: Creating a clean, bloatware-free Windows environment.
• Embedded Systems (Potentially): The "core" version might be suitable for some embedded system scenarios, but the lack of serviceability is a major limitation.
• Rapid Development/Testing (tiny11 core): Quickly setting up a minimal Windows environment for testing software or configurations.