Useful info for performing OS Reloads on various types of systems.

<aside> <img src="/icons/fire_green.svg" alt="/icons/fire_green.svg" width="40px" /> Factory Reset Protection

Many modern operating systems have Factory Reset Protection (FRP), which requires the user's login on reset if their account is not removed beforehand. This is a security feature designed to prevent unauthorized access to a device, even if it is lost or stolen.

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<aside> <img src="/icons/light-bulb_blue.svg" alt="/icons/light-bulb_blue.svg" width="40px" /> Windows 7 & earlier While technically possible to perform OS Reloads on devices running Windows 7 or earlier, it is highly impractical due to lack of support, drivers, and programs compatible with them. As such this guide will only focus on modern, supported versions of Windows.

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Windows 8.1

<aside> <img src="/icons/warning_orange.svg" alt="/icons/warning_orange.svg" width="40px" /> Windows 8.1 EOL Microsoft's extended support for Windows 7-8.1 has ended. Resources for these releases are not guaranteed, making the maintenance of such systems difficult or impossible.

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It is generally recommended to upgrade Windows 8.1 to Windows 10, as the upgrade process is typically clean and seamless. However, if reinstalling Windows 8.1 is necessary, follow these steps:

  1. Download the Windows 8.1 ISO from Microsoft's website.
  2. Create an installation media using Rufus.

Please note that the Media Creation Tool is not available for Windows versions below 10.

Download Windows 8.1 Disc Image (ISO File)

Rufus - The Official Website (Download, New Releases)

Windows 10 & 11

<aside> <img src="/icons/warning_orange.svg" alt="/icons/warning_orange.svg" width="40px" /> Windows 10 Availability & Support

Microsoft discontinued sales of Windows 10 in February 2023, and will fully support the OS until October 14, 2025. The final major release is version 22H2. Transition to Windows 11 is encouraged for continued updates and support.

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<aside> <img src="/icons/fire_green.svg" alt="/icons/fire_green.svg" width="40px" /> Compatibility

Before updating a system to Windows 11 or installing it on a system not previously running it, verify the system's compatibility with the OS.

How to use the PC Health Check app

GitHub - rcmaehl/WhyNotWin11: Detection Script to help identify why your PC is not Windows 11 Release Ready. Now Supporting Update Checks!

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<aside> <img src="/icons/fire_green.svg" alt="/icons/fire_green.svg" width="40px" /> Microsoft Account & Internet Requirement

Starting with Windows 11 22H2, connecting to a network and logging in to a Microsoft account during setup is mandatory. To use a local-only account, follow these steps during setup:

  1. Press Shift + F10 to open Command Prompt.
  2. In Command Prompt, type OOBE\\\\BYPASSNRO and press Enter.
  3. The system will reboot, and options to skip network and register with a local account will be available. </aside>

Windows 11 is the latest fully-supported version of Microsoft’s Windows operating system.