Windows 11 Nano Is Just 2.29 GB and Bloat-Free
Discover the Compact Windows 11: Just 2.29 GB and Bloat-Free!
In an impressive feat of software engineering, NTDev has successfully compressed the entire Windows 11 operating system into a mere 2.29 GB file. This remarkable project, dubbed nano11, focuses on delivering a streamlined experience by including “all the essentials, none of the fluff.” The result is a significantly reduced ISO file, shrinking the original Windows 11 Insider build 26200 from 7.04 GB to an astonishingly compact size.
What’s Removed?
To achieve this size reduction, NTDev has removed various components deemed non-essential or bloatware. Some of the notable exclusions include:
- Xbox
- Weather
- Office
- Solitaire
- Windows Update
- Windows Defender
- Most drivers
- Bitlocker
- Търсене
- Biometrics
- Accessibility features
- Audio
- Microsoft Edge
- Internet Explorer
Once removed, these components cannot be restored, making it crucial for users to consider their needs before diving into the nano11 experience.
Use Cases for nano11
The primary application for this compact version of Windows 11 lies in creating lightweight virtual machines (VMs) and legacy system builds that require minimal functionality. According to the project’s GitHub page, “This is an extreme experimental script designed for creating a quick and dirty development testbed.” It eliminates everything possible to achieve the smallest footprint, including the Windows Component Store (WinSxS) and core services.
Open Source and Customization Options
Importantly, nano11 is open source and available for anyone interested in tinkering. This allows users to potentially adapt the system to fit their specific needs. Notably, it retains the ability to bypass Microsoft Account requirements during the initial boot, a relief for many users.
A Comparison with Other Operating Systems
For context, the SteamOS ISO file is 2.9 GB, which makes Windows 11’s original size of 7.04 GB appear quite large. While Microsoft has packed a significant amount of features into its OS, it is worth noting that not all operating systems are inherently smaller. For example, the latest Bazzite ISO, a popular Linux gaming OS, is also around 7 GB in size.
Previous Projects by NTDev
NTDev is no stranger to OS modifications. Their previous projects include running Windows 11 on just 184 MB of RAM—well below Microsoft’s stipulated minimum of 4 GB—and creating a version of Windows that is as small as 100 MB. However, that particular version operates as a text-only interface, lacking a graphical user interface (GUI).
Conclusion
This is not the first instance of NTDev shrinking Windows 11. Their earlier project, tiny11, achieved a similarly compact ISO, with options to trim down even further. However, with significant reductions in features like Windows Defender, users should be cautious when exploring such minimalistic versions.
As demonstrated by tiny11, nano11, and other experimental projects, there exists a threshold where Windows 11 can become largely unrecognizable or practically unusable due to excessive component removal. Nonetheless, these endeavors provide fascinating insights into software optimization, highlighting the potential for creating a leaner Windows experience.
