Based on your previous question about lightweight Windows, I’ll assume you’re asking how to switch to a lightweight version (e.g., from standard Windows 10/11 to a stripped-down edition like LTSC or a custom build like Tiny11). This typically involves a clean install, as “switching” mid-use often requires debloating tools rather than a full conversion. Note: As of December 2025, Windows 10 is end-of-life, so focus on Windows 11 options. Always back up data before proceeding, and unofficial mods carry risks like missing updates or instability.
I’ll cover the three most common, reliable methods: installing official Windows 11 LTSC (lightweight and supported), creating/installing Tiny11 (community lightweight build), and debloating an existing install. These reduce bloat, telemetry, and resource use.
1. Install Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC (Official Lightweight Edition)
LTSC is Microsoft’s enterprise-focused, bloat-free version with 10-year support, no Store apps, and low RAM/CPU demands (runs on 2GB RAM). It’s ideal for stability on older hardware.
Requirements:
• A valid Windows 11 LTSC license (evaluation ISO is free for 90 days; purchase via Microsoft Volume Licensing or resellers like WhoKeys for ~$20-30).
• 8GB+ USB drive.
• PC meeting basic specs (no TPM/Secure Boot required for IoT LTSC).
Step-by-Step Installation:
1. Download the ISO: Go to Microsoft’s Evaluation Center (microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/download-windows-11-iot-enterprise-ltsc-eval). Select the 64-bit English ISO and download (~4.5GB).
2. Verify the Download (Optional but Recommended): Open PowerShell as admin, run Get-FileHash path\to\your\ISO -Algorithm SHA256, and compare the hash to Microsoft’s provided value.
3. Create Bootable USB: Download Rufus (rufus.ie). Insert USB, select the ISO in Rufus, choose GPT/UEFI mode, and click Start to flash.
4. Boot from USB: Restart PC, enter BIOS (e.g., F2/Del), set USB as first boot device, save and exit.
5. Install Windows: Boot to the setup screen. Select language/timezone > Next > Install Now. Enter product key if prompted (skip for eval). Choose Custom install, select drive (format if needed), and proceed. Follow on-screen prompts for user setup (minimal apps included).
6. Post-Install: Update via Settings > Windows Update. Add essentials like browser from Microsoft Store if needed.
Tips/Warnings: LTSC skips feature updates, so it’s stable but lacks new UI features. For non-IoT hardware, use third-party sources like Massgrave.dev for full LTSC ISO. No official support for consumer use—test thoroughly.
2. Install Tiny11 (Community Lightweight Build)
Tiny11 is a debloated Windows 11 ISO (~3GB install size) that bypasses TPM/Secure Boot and removes apps like Edge/Cortana. Great for low-end PCs (2GB RAM min). Use Tiny11 Builder to create it from a stock ISO.
Requirements:
• Stock Windows 11 ISO (download from microsoft.com/software-download/windows11).
• Another PC to build the ISO.
• 8GB+ USB drive.
• .NET 7+ runtime (auto-installed by tool).
Step-by-Step:
1. Download Tiny11 Builder: Get the latest from GitHub (github.com/ntdevlabs/tiny11builder). Extract the ZIP.
2. Mount Stock ISO: Right-click the Windows 11 ISO > Mount (assigns a drive letter, e.g., D:).
3. Run Builder: Open Command Prompt as admin in the extracted folder. Run tiny11builder.bat. Select options: Remove bloat (default), bypass TPM/Secure Boot (yes), and build the ISO. Note the mounted drive letter when prompted. Wait ~10-20 mins for processing.
4. Create Bootable USB: Use Rufus to flash the new Tiny11 ISO to USB (GPT/UEFI).
5. Boot and Install: As in LTSC steps 4-5 above. Installation is faster due to stripped components.
6. Post-Install: Run Windows Update. Reinstall useful apps (e.g., via Winget: winget install Google.Chrome).
Tips/Warnings: Tiny11 receives security updates but no Microsoft support. Download from trusted sources to avoid malware. For 2025 updates, check NTDEV’s GitHub for the latest builder version. If you prefer a pre-built ISO, search Archive.org, but verify hashes.
3. Debloat an Existing Windows Install (No Reinstall Needed)
For a quick “switch” without wiping your drive, use scripts to remove bloat on current Windows 11.
Requirements: Admin access; run on a backupped system.
Step-by-Step Using Chris Titus Tech Tool (Recommended):
1. Download the Tool: Visit christitus.com/win for the WinUtil script (PowerShell-based).
2. Run It: Open PowerShell as admin, paste irm christitus.com/win | iex and Enter.
3. Select Options: In the GUI, choose “Tweaks” > Disable telemetry/bloat (e.g., Cortana, Widgets, OneDrive). Apply “Essential Tweaks” for lightweight mode. Reboot when done.
4. Verify: Check Task Manager for reduced background processes.
Tips/Warnings: This won’t shrink install size much but boosts performance. For deeper tweaks, try MSMG Toolkit (github.com/AveYo/MediaCreationTool.bat). Reversible, but test apps afterward.
If this isn’t what you meant (e.g., switching out of S Mode), clarify! For S Mode exit: Go to Settings > System > Activation > “Switch to Windows 11 Home/Pro” > Follow Store link (free, one-way).