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Clean Windows Installation Guide
A comprehensive guide for performing a clean Windows installation, including malware checks, data backup, and post-installation optimization steps.
Prerequisites
-
A genuine Windows ISO file:
- Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2 (Recommended)
- Windows 11 IoT Enterprise 23H2 (For cracked Denuvo games)
- The latest version of Rufus
- A minimum 8GB USB drive
- Follow this guide before making a bootable USB if you suspect malware
- Another clean system if your current system is infected with malware
Malware Concerns
Why use another system?
Malware can copy itself to the bootable USB during creation. Use a clean system to make the bootable USB and only connect it to the infected system when Windows isn't running.
Checking for file infector malware:
Open PowerShell as admin and enter:
sc.exe start "sppsvc" > $null 2>&1; Write-Host "Error code: $LASTEXITCODE"
If the output is Error code: 577 or 225, your system likely has file infector malware.
No access to a clean system?
Try Dr.Web to remove malware, but be aware it may miss some infections. Creating a bootable USB on a clean system remains the safest option.
Backing Up Your Data
A clean installation will format the C drive. Here's how to back up your data:
For systems with multiple partitions (C:\, D:\, etc.):
- Copy data from C drive to other partitions
-
Key locations to back up in C:\Users\[Your Username]:
- Desktop
- Documents
- Downloads
- Music
- Pictures
- Videos
For systems with C:\ drive only:
- For small amounts of data: Use online drives or the bootable USB
- For large amounts of data: Create a new partition and save your data there
Recommended online backup options:
- GoogleDrive - 15GB Free
- Mega - 20GB Free
- OneDrive - 5GB Free
Creating a Bootable USB with Rufus
- Connect your USB drive (data will be erased)
- Launch Rufus
- Select your USB drive in the "Device" dropdown
- Click "SELECT" and choose your Windows ISO file
- Click "START" and wait for completion
Post-Installation Steps
- Remove Microsoft Edge
- Disable Telemetry
-
Update your drivers
GPU Drivers:
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