Tiny11 Updated for Windows 11 25H2: Lighter, Faster, and Now for ARM Devices

The developer behind Tiny11 is back with an update based on Windows 11 version 25H2, and this time it supports both x64 (Intel/AMD) and ARM64 devices. The goal remains the same: deliver a minimal Windows experience that ditches bloatware, removes hardware restrictions, and lets you set up a local account—no Microsoft sign-in required.

Tiny11 isn’t meant to replace a full installation of Windows 11. Instead, it’s ideal for testing, virtual machines, and older or low-spec systems that struggle with the standard OS footprint.

Tiny11 vs. Tiny11 “Core”: What’s Actually Removed

The 25H2 release offers two flavors: standard Tiny11 and a more extreme Tiny11 Core build. Both significantly reduce disk usage by removing built-in apps and unnecessary system components. However, the Core variant goes further by stripping out update and recovery capabilities.

Core Windows essentials like Calculator, Notepad, Paint, and access to the Microsoft Store remain available, though some Store apps may fail if they depend on missing system components.

Download Tiny11 25H2 (x64 and ARM64)

Pre-built Tiny11 ISOs for both x64 and ARM64 are available from the project maintainer.
However, because these are community-modified images, use them at your own risk.
For maximum transparency and security, you can build your own image using the official Microsoft ISO and Tiny11’s open-source scripts.

Official Resources:

• Build scripts: tiny11builder on GitHub
• Base ISOs:
  • Windows 11 Enterprise 25H2 Evaluation
  • Windows 11 on ARM (official download)

💡 Tip: Prebuilt ISOs are designed for quick installation on unsupported hardware and to bypass the Microsoft account requirement. If you want verified integrity, always build your own from the official Microsoft media.

How to Build a Tiny11 25H2 ISO from Official Media

If you prefer control and a trusted source, follow these steps to build your own Tiny11 ISO safely:

1. Download an official Windows 11 25H2 ISO (x64 or ARM64) from Microsoft’s Evaluation Center or ARM page.
2. Clone or download the tiny11builder repository from GitHub.
3. Run the builder scripts according to the README instructions.
   • The main script builds the standard Tiny11 ISO.
   • A separate script generates the “Core” variant with more aggressive removals.
4. Create bootable media using Rufus or another USB imaging tool.
5. Boot and install the new ISO as usual. During setup, choose a local account instead of a Microsoft account.

If you later need features like .NET 3.5, language packs, or optional components, install them manually after setup. Note that some may not work on the Core build due to missing dependencies.

Activation, Updates, and Store Behavior

• Activation: Use any valid Windows 10 or Windows 11 product key.
• Updates: Standard Tiny11 supports cumulative updates, though feature upgrades may fail. The Core build does not support Windows Update.
• Microsoft Store: Present in recent Tiny11 builds; re-installable if removed. Some apps may not launch if they depend on stripped-out services.
• Xbox integration: Xbox components are minimized, but installing an Xbox title from the Store restores functionality.

Security and Support Warnings

Tiny11 is not an official Microsoft product. It’s a community-maintained, modified version of Windows 11 meant for testing and lightweight use only.

Be aware:

• The Core build disables Windows Defender and removes WinRE, meaning no built-in protection or recovery options.
• No official support or updates from Microsoft are guaranteed.
• Always install Tiny11 on non-critical or secondary systems, and avoid storing sensitive data.

If you rely on reliability, security patches, and recovery tools, it’s safer to stick with standard Windows 11 or generate a less aggressive custom image using the builder scripts.

Final Thoughts

With Windows 10 now reaching end-of-support for most users, Tiny11 25H2 provides a clever way to extend the life of older hardware or run lightweight virtual machines. It delivers the essentials of Windows 11 with less bloat and faster startup—especially on low-power CPUs or small SSDs.

Still, treat it as an experimental build, not a daily driver. For mission-critical work, always rely on official Microsoft ISOs or your own carefully trimmed version that keeps updates and recovery intact.