As we welcome the Windows 11 25H2 update, it's the perfect opportunity to refresh our approach to maintaining a clean operating system. The arrival of this update coincides with the changing seasons—fall is here, and so is Microsoft's annual update rollout. This year's 25H2 release is relatively minor compared to last year's 24H2 update, which introduced significant enhancements to core Windows components and improved performance for ARM devices. Now, with the 25H2 update, we see a continuation of these improvements with a focus on security and stability.
Despite the evolution of Windows 11, the operating system has developed a reputation for being cluttered with unnecessary applications and settings that can hinder performance. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to optimize your Windows 11 experience, particularly for those fresh installations or users transitioning from Windows 10 as Microsoft phases out support. We'll focus on removing unwanted applications and adjusting settings to enhance your user experience without resorting to unsupported modifications.
The initial setup process for Windows 11 has become a point of contention, primarily due to its requirement for a Microsoft account sign-in. This applies to both Home and Pro editions of the OS. If you prefer to avoid the incessant upsell prompts for Microsoft 365, OneDrive, and Xbox Game Pass, you have options to bypass the Microsoft account requirement.
During the setup process, after selecting your language and keyboard preferences but before connecting to a network, press Shift + F10 to open the command prompt. Type OOBE\BYPASSNRO and hit Enter. After the PC restarts, select "I don't have Internet" on the network setup screen to regain access to local account setup options.
If you're using Windows 11 Pro, there is a straightforward method to create a local account without using the command line. Proceed through the setup, connecting to the network as usual. When prompted to choose between personal or work/school setup, select the latter. This will allow you to create a local account without signing in with a Microsoft account.
For those who frequently install Windows 11, the Rufus tool can simplify the process. By modifying the installation media, you can ensure that the local account option is always available. Download Rufus and a fresh Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft, and use an 8GB or larger USB drive to create bootable media that includes your desired settings.
Once you reach the Windows desktop, the next crucial step is to remove any unnecessary applications that come pre-installed. Even with the 25H2 update, some third-party apps may still install automatically. Open the Start menu, right-click on unwanted apps, and select "Uninstall." Pay attention to apps like Spotify, Grammarly, and others that might clutter your system.
Below is a list of applications typically found in a fresh install of Windows 11 25H2 that you may consider removing:
Microsoft Teams Clipchamp Microsoft OneDrive Xbox News Microsoft To DoMany of these applications may not be essential for your daily use and can be removed through the Settings app under the Installed Apps section.
With the initial cleanup complete, it's time to customize your Windows 11 settings for a better user experience. Start by personalizing your desktop and taskbar settings. Right-click on the desktop, select Personalize, and choose a theme that suits your style. Disable features like the Widgets board if you find them unnecessary.
Navigate to Settings > Privacy & Security and turn off any settings that send data back to Microsoft, such as "Improve Start and search results" and "Advertising ID." Additionally, access Settings > System > Notifications to disable unnecessary prompts that clutter your experience.
If you plan to use Microsoft Edge, it's advisable to tweak its settings to reduce clutter. Start by disabling "Quick links" and limiting data sharing with third parties. Switch to your preferred search engine under Settings > Privacy, Search, & Services to customize your browsing experience. Remember to turn off features like the sidebar and Copilot if they do not align with your preferences.
By following these steps, you can significantly enhance your Windows 11 experience after the 25H2 update. While Microsoft continues to evolve its operating system, it's essential to take control of your settings and applications to minimize distractions and improve performance. With these adjustments, you can focus more on productivity and less on navigating through unwanted features and ads.
For more tips and guides on optimizing your Windows experience, stay tuned for updates and best practices as Microsoft continues to roll out new features and updates.
