Looking for a bloatware-free, optimized Windows 11 installation? This guide will show you how to:
✔ Download Windows 11 directly from Microsoft
✔ Remove unnecessary apps & services using an automated config file
✔ Install a clean, fast Windows 11 without programming skills

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Step 1: Download Windows 11 from Microsoft

Requirements:

• 8GB+ USB drive (all data will be erased)
• Stable internet connection

Steps:

1. Visit the official Microsoft Windows 11 Download Page.
2. Click “Download Now” under “Create Windows 11 Installation Media”.
3. Run the Media Creation Tool and accept the license terms.
4. Select “USB Flash Drive” (ensure your USB is detected).
5. Wait for the bootable drive to be created (~10-20 mins).

⚠ Backup Important Data!
The USB drive will be formatted, and the Windows installation erases all files on the target drive.

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Step 2: Generate a Custom Setup File (unattend.xml)

To remove bloatware & disable unwanted features, we’ll use the Windows Unattended Setup Generator.

Key Settings to Configure:

1. Language & Region

• Select your preferred language & country.

1. Processor Architecture

• Choose 64-bit (x64) for modern PCs.

1. Bypass Windows 11 Requirements (if needed)

• Enable “Bypass Windows 11 checks” if installing on unsupported hardware.

1. Disable Bloatware & Telemetry

• Uncheck unnecessary apps (keep only Notepad, PowerShell, Photos if needed).
• Disable:
  • Widgets & News Feed
  • Windows Defender (optional)
  • Automatic Updates (optional)
  • User Account Control (UAC)
  • Microsoft Edge (if unused)

1. Classic UI Tweaks

• Move Start Menu to Left
• Show file extensions
• Disable Taskbar animations

1. Download the XML File

• Click “Download XML” and save it.

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Step 3: Copy the XML File to the Bootable USB

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the Windows 11 USB drive.
2. Paste the unattend.xml file into the root directory.

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Step 4: Install Windows 11 (Custom Setup)

1. Restart PC & Boot from USB (Press F12/F8/DEL during startup).
2. Select the USB drive in the boot menu.
3. Delete old partitions (if reinstalling):

• Select each partition → Delete → Leave “Unallocated Space”.

1. Begin Installation (The XML file will auto-apply settings).
2. Wait (~10-20 mins) – The system will reboot multiple times.

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Step 5: Post-Installation Checks

✅ Verify Activation (Settings → System → Activation)
✅ Check Windows Updates (Optional, if not disabled)
✅ Test Performance (Should be faster & cleaner than default install)

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Final Thoughts

• Pros:
• No bloatware (Candy Crush, Xbox, etc. removed)
• Faster boot & response times
• Full control over Windows features
• Cons:
• Manual tweaking required
• Some security features disabled (Defender, Updates)

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Tags:

Windows 11, Lightweight Windows, Bloatware Removal, Windows Optimization, Clean Install, unattend.xml

Hashtags:

#Windows11 #LightWindows #BloatwareFree #WindowsOptimization #TechGuide #PCPerformance

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Disclaimer:

• Modifying system files can void warranties or cause instability.
• Disabling security features (Defender, Updates) increases risk.
• Backup all data before installation.

Rakesh Bhardwaj

Rakesh Bhardwaj is a seasoned editor and designer with over 15 years of experience in the creative industry. He specializes in crafting visually compelling and professionally polished content, blending precision with creativity. Whether refining written work or designing impactful visuals, Rakesh brings a deep understanding of layout, typography, and narrative flow to every project he undertakes.

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