How to Upgrade to the Latest Version of Windows 11 on ANY PC!

 

Are you looking to upgrade to the latest version of Windows 11, regardless of whether your computer officially supports it? Whether you're using Windows 10 or an older version of Windows 11, this guide will show you step-by-step how to perform the upgrade. Let's dive right in!

If you're interested, I also have a video version of this guide:

Step 1: Access Disk Management

Right-click on your start button and select "Disk Management" to open the Disk Management window.

Step 2: Create a Virtual Hard Disk

In the Disk Management window, click on "Action" and then select "Create VHD." Click on "Browse," navigate to your C drive, and create a new folder named "VHD." Select this folder, name your file "VHD," and click "Save." Set the virtual hard disk size to 16 GB (change MB to GB) and leave the other settings as default. Click "OK."

Step 3: Initialize and Format the New Disk

You'll see a new disk that is not yet initialized. Right-click on this new disk and select "Initialize Disk." Choose GPT and click "OK." Next, right-click on the unallocated space, select "New Simple Volume," and keep clicking "Next." Name the volume "VUSB" and finish the setup.

Step 4: Download Rufus

Open your browser, search for "Rufus," and navigate to the official Rufus webpage. Download the standard version of Rufus (not the portable version) appropriate for your system (64-bit or 32-bit).

Step 5: Set Up Rufus

Open Rufus, and it should automatically detect the virtual USB drive. If not, select it manually from the drop-down menu. Click on the arrow next to "Select," then "Download." Click on "Download" again to fetch the ISO image file of Windows 11. Ensure you choose the correct language that matches your current system 

Check this via PowerShell with the command 

get-winsystemlocale

Step 6: Create the Installation Media

Once the ISO is downloaded, it should appear under "Boot Selection" in Rufus. Leave all settings as default but you can change the volume label to "Win11." Click "Start," ensure all confirmation boxes are checked, and proceed.

Step 7: Install Windows 11

After Rufus completes, open File Explorer, navigate to "This PC," and open the "Win11" drive. Double-click the "Setup" file, confirm any prompts, and begin the Windows 11 installation process. Opt for "Not right now" for updates, accept the terms, and choose to keep your personal files and apps for a smooth transition.

Step 8: Finalize Installation

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Your computer will upgrade to the latest version of Windows 11, which is version 23H2 at the time of this tutorial. After the upgrade, you can delete the VHD folder and the downloaded files (Rufus and the ISO) to free up space.

Step 9: Optional: Roll Back to Previous Windows

If necessary, you can revert to your previous version of Windows via the "Recovery" option in "Settings" under "Windows Update." This option is available only for a few days post-upgrade.

Conclusion:

That's it! You've successfully upgraded to Windows 11. If this guide was helpful, please like and subscribe for more tutorials.

Talk Soon!

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How to Create a Custom Windows ISO with Preinstalled Software Included for FREE! (Tutorial)

 

I recently created a custom Windows 11 ISO file for my own personal use and decided to record and share the process with you. So, if you've been wondering how to create a custom Windows 11 image that has software preinstalled which can be used for mass deployment, this guide is for you as I'll take you through the entire process step-by-step.

I also have a video version if you'd like to watch it:

Step 1: Download the Official Windows ISO File

1. Search for "Download Windows 11" on Google.

2. Click the official Microsoft page, select "Multi-Edition ISO," and download.

3. Choose "English (United States)" or your language of choice, confirm, and save the file to your desktop.

Step 2: Create a Folder for the ISO

1. On your desktop, right-click and create a new folder called `VMshare`.

2. Drag and drop the ISO file into this folder.

If you need more help with this, please check out this guide:

How to Download Windows 11 ISO File

Step 3: Install Virtualization Software

1. Choose either VMware Player or VirtualBox (both are free).

You can check out these guides for help with virtualization:

How to Enable Virtualization on Your PC

How to Install VMware on Windows 11 and 10

How to Download & Install VirtualBox

Step 4: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. In VMware:

   - Click "Create a New Virtual Machine."

   - Choose "Install OS Later" and set the version to "Windows 11."

   - Adjust settings and click "Finish."

2. Right-click the virtual machine, go to "Settings," and change:

   - Memory and CPU: Allocate as your system allows.

   - CD/DVD: Select "Use ISO image file," browse to the `VM share` folder, and choose the ISO.

3. Add another virtual hard disk and configure according to the recommended options.

Step 5: Install Windows 11 in the Virtual Machine

1. Start the virtual machine and boot from the ISO file by pressing any key.

2. Go through the Windows 11 installation steps, selecting "Windows 11 Home" for flexibility.

3. After setup, access the desktop and configure it per your preferences.

Step 6: Install Desired Programs

1. Visit [ninite.com] and select the applications you want pre-installed.

2. Download the installer and run it to install all selected apps.

3. Install additional applications like Adobe Reader, AnyDesk, and Nilesoft Shell from their respective websites or any other software that you want to have pre installed.

4. Do a search for "Disk Management" and initialize the second disk you added to the VM and name it DATA.

Step 7: Prepare the Installation for Capturing

1. Launch Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following command.

%windir%\system32\sysprep\sysprep.exe /audit /reboot

2. Once loaded into the default Administrator account, open the control panel and delete the initial "User" account created earlier.

3. Open the Run box with Windows Key + R, type sysprep and hit enter.

4. Run the Sysprep application.

5. Select "System Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE)," check "Generalize," and set "Shutdown Options" to "Shutdown."

Step 8: Capture the Custom Windows Image

1. Boot the VM from the Windows ISO file again and select repair your computer.

2. Use Command Prompt to capture the custom image with the `DISM` command:

dism /Capture-Image /ImageFile:D:\install.wim /CaptureDir:C:\ /Name:windows11

D = The drive where your new Image file will be saved. (DATA partition)

C = The drive where Windows is currently installed in the VM.

3. Once it's completed, type Exit and hit Enter.

4. Continue into Windows again.

Step 9: Add Shared folder to VM

1.Navigate to the Virtual Machine's settings and click on the Options tab. 

2.Click on Shared folders, change it to Always enabled and then click on Add.

3.Navigate to and select the VMShare folder that is saved on your main computer's desktop.

4.Click on OK and launch the Virtual Machine.

Step 10: Installing VMWare Tools

1.Once the Virtual Machine has started up, click on "Player" in the top left, then Manage and click on "Install VMware Tools".
2.A new CD will be mounted in the Virtual Machine called VMware Tools. Click on it to run it and install it. Restart the VM if prompted to restart.
3.Once restarted, open the File Explorer and navigate to the Network Tab and turn on Network and File Discovery.
4.You should see a vmware-host PC on the network and you will then have access to the VMShare folder from within the VM.

Step 11: Create a Bootable ISO

1. Install AnyBurn in the virtual machine and use it to modify the original Windows ISO.

2. Replace the existing `install.wim` file with your custom one.

3. Save the edited image as a new ISO, like "Windows 11 - Custom."

Step 12: Test the Custom ISO

1. Create a new virtual machine using the custom ISO file.

2. Install Windows and confirm that all your programs are pre-installed.

Bonus Tip

If you encounter issues with unsupported hardware, use Rufus to make a bootable USB and remove hardware requirements.

If you need more help with this, please check out this guide:

How to Create a Windows 11 Installation USB

Conclusion

That’s how you can create a custom Windows ISO file with pre-installed programs to streamline future installations. 

I also have another guide following a similar method that shows you how to create a custom Windows 10 ISO for gaming.

If you found this guide helpful, leave a like and check out my other tutorials!

Talk soon!

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How to Create YOUR OWN Custom Windows 10 ISO for Gaming for FREE! (NOT NTLite or MSMG ToolKit)

 

In this detailed tutorial, I'm excited to share with you the step-by-step process of creating a custom Windows 10 ISO file, specifically optimized for gaming. This custom setup ensures a streamlined operating system by stripping unnecessary Windows apps and background processes, enhancing your gaming experience.

Introduction to the Custom ISO

Before we dive into the tutorial, let's look at what you can expect from this custom Windows 10 installation:

- Minimal Windows Apps: 

Clicking on your Start button reveals no clutter from typical Windows apps.

- Essential Background Apps Only: 

The system restricts background app activity to just Settings and Windows Security.

- Reduced Process Load: 

The process list is trimmed down significantly, ideal for gaming efficiency.

I also have a video version of this guide if you'd like to watch it, if you find it helpful, don't forget to like & subscribe:

Preparing for the ISO Creation

1. Download the Official ISO: 

Start by downloading the official Windows 10 ISO from Microsoft. Use a Chromium-based browser (like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge) for this, enabling you to modify the browser's network conditions to mimic another OS (Chrome OS) and access the ISO directly.

Once the ISO file is downloaded, create a new folder on your Desktop called VMShare and copy the ISO file into the VMShare folder.

If you need more help with this, please check out these guides:

How to Download Windows 10 ISO File

How to Download Windows 10 ISO File Without Media Creation Tool

2. Set Up a Virtual Environment: 

You'll need a virtualization tool like VMware Workstation Player or VirtualBox. 

You can check out these guides for help with virtualization:

How to Enable Virtualization on Your PC

How to Install VMware on Windows 11 and 10

How to Download & Install VirtualBox

Creating the Virtual Machine

1. Configure the Virtual Machine: 

Set up your newly created virtual machine with appropriate memory and processor settings. Mount the downloaded ISO to the virtual CD drive. 

IMPORTANT: Add a new separate hard disk drive to the VM before launching it, you need two separate drives, one for the Windows install and one where you will save the custom Windows 10 image file.

2. Install Windows: 

Proceed with a standard Windows installation on the virtual machine. Choose the Windows 10 edition according to your preference, as this will be your base for the custom ISO. I used Windows 10 Pro in this guide.

Customizing Windows 10

1. Debloating Windows: 

Once Windows is installed, use PowerShell to run the scripts below that remove unwanted apps and services, optimizing the system for gaming.

- Run The Chris Titus Tech Windows Utility in Powershell (Admin)

irm https://christitus.com/win | iex

- Run O&O's Appbuster, select all Windows apps & Uninstall them all.

- Uninstall the Microsoft Store in Powershell (Admin)

Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.WindowsStore* | Remove-AppxPackage

2. Installing Essential Applications: 

Install only necessary applications, like a web browser. Thorium and Floorp are what I'm going with.

3. Final Tweaks: 

Adjust system settings to disable unnecessary features and services further, ensuring a lean operating environment. (Watch the video for my recommendations)

Lastly, do a search for "Disk Management" and initialize the second disk you added to the VM and name it DATA.

Go to Settings, Update & Security, Recovery and click on Restart Now under Advanced Startup.

Navigate through the options until you find the Command Prompt.

Capturing the Custom ISO

1. Prepare for Capture: 

With your Windows finely tuned, prepare to capture this setup into a new Windows image file using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool.

2. Execute the Capture Command: 

Use the following command to capture your custom Windows 10 image:

dism /Capture-Image /ImageFile:D:\install.wim /CaptureDir:C:\ /Name:windows10

D = The drive where your new Image file will be saved. (DATA partition)

C = The drive where Windows is currently installed in the VM.

When the command is finished, shut down the VM.

Add Shared folder to VM

Navigate to the Virtual Machine's settings and click on the Options tab. 

Click on Shared folders, change it to Always enabled and then click on Add.

Navigate to and select the VMShare folder that is saved on your main computer's desktop.

Click on OK and launch the Virtual Machine.

Installing VMWare Tools

Once the Virtual Machine has started up, click on "Player" in the top left, then Manage and click on "Install VMware Tools".

A new CD will be mounted in the Virtual Machine called VMware Tools. Click on it to run it and install it. Restart the VM if prompted to restart.

Once restarted, open the File Explorer and navigate to the Network Tab and turn on Network and File Discovery.

You should see a vmware-host PC on the network and you will then have access to the VMShare folder from within the VM.

Making Your Custom Windows Image Bootable

Download and Install Anyburn.

Click on Edit Image File.

Select the image file that's saved in the VMShare folder on your local computer.

Open the Sources folder and find either the install.esd or install.wim file, select it and click on Remove.

Click on Add and navigate to the DATA partition where your custom Windows Image is saved.

Click on Next and change the name of your custom ISO file, but save it in the same VMShare directory so you'll have easy access to it on your main computer.

Once your custom ISO file is created you can create a bootable flash drive with it or install it on a Virtual Machine to test it out.

How to Create a Rufus Bootable USB

How to Create a Ventoy Bootable USB

Conclusion and Next Steps

With your custom Windows 10 ISO ready, you're set to enjoy a more efficient, gaming-optimized system. Remember, this ISO strips away unnecessary components, focusing solely on enhancing your gaming performance. 

Enjoy your enhanced gaming rig, and don't forget to like and subscribe if you found this tutorial helpful!

Talk to you soon.

Memory

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Use These Browsers on Windows 7 Instead of Google Chrome!

 

If you're still using Windows 7 and you're experiencing difficulties installing Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox, I'm here to introduce you to two alternative browsers. Both of these options are still supported on Windows 7 and offer a seamless browsing experience.

I also have a video version of this post if you're interested:

Issues with Current Browsers on Windows 7

When attempting to install Chrome on Windows 7, you'll find that your device won't receive updates because Chrome is no longer supported on this OS. Similarly, Mozilla Firefox has discontinued support for Windows 8.1 and below, which includes Windows 7.

Alternative Browser Options

Installing Thorium as a Chrome Replacement

Thorium is an excellent alternative if you're seeking a browser similar to Google Chrome. To download Thorium:

1. Visit the webpage thorium.rocks
2. Scroll down and click on the Windows 7 link to navigate to the download section.
3. You'll find various utilities and updates for Windows 7 that are useful post-2019.
4. Click on the "Thorium releases for Windows 7" link, which will direct you to the GitHub page.
5. Depending on your Windows 7 update level, select either the AVX2 mini-installer or the AVX mini-installer.
   - For older versions of Windows 7, you might need to opt for the Windows XP 64-bit or 32-bit versions.
6. After clicking on your selected installer, choose 'Save' to download and 'Run' to install Thorium.
7. Once installed, you can sign into your Google account to sync your Chrome bookmarks and data with Thorium, or skip this step to start browsing immediately.

Installing Floorp as a Firefox Replacement

For those looking for a Firefox alternative, Floorp is a great choice:

1. Search for "Floorp GitHub releases" on Google.
2. On the GitHub releases page, choose the appropriate installer for your system (64-bit or 32-bit).
3. Click on 'Save' to download the installer and 'Run' to begin the installation.
4. Follow the installation prompts and click 'Finish' to launch the Floe browser.
5. Like Thorium, Floe is compatible with older versions of Windows and will allow you to access sites like Gmail without compatibility issues.

Conclusion

For Windows 7 users, Thorium and Floorp provide viable alternatives to Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, respectively. By following the steps outlined above, you can install these browsers and enjoy a modern web browsing experience without upgrading your operating system. Remember to try both browsers to see which one suits your preferences better. If you found this guide helpful, please like and follow for more tips.

I'll talk to you guys soon.
Memory

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You Can Still Skip Microsoft Sign In on Windows 11 23H2 & 24H2

 

Ever since the release of Windows 11 version 23H2, Microsoft has tightened the requirements for using a Microsoft account during setup. However, in this post, I'm going to share a simple method to bypass this screen, a technique that should remain effective even in the upcoming version 24H2, unless Microsoft decides to block this workaround.

I also have a video version of this guide if you're interested in watching it:

Step-by-Step Guide for Windows 11 Pro Version

If you have the Pro version of Windows 11 23H2, the process is straightforward:

1. Access Work or School Account Option:

Once you reach the sign-in screen, click 'Back'. This will provide an option to set up a work or school account.

2. Domain Join Option:

Next, click on 'Sign-in options', then select 'Domain join' instead.

3. Create Local Account:

You can now proceed to create a local account.

Step-by-Step Guide for Windows 11 Home Version 23H2

For those using Windows 11 Home, the steps are slightly different since the Home versions do not support domain joining:

1. Open Command Prompt:

At the sign-in screen, press 'Shift' + 'F10' to open a command prompt window.

2. Launch Task Manager:

Type `TASKMGR.exe` in the command prompt and hit enter to open Task Manager.

3. Run Registry Editor:

In Task Manager, choose 'Run new task', type `regedit`, and ensure you select 'Create this task with administrative privileges'.

4. Navigate in Registry Editor:

In the Registry Editor, navigate to `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\OOBE`.

5. Modify Registry:

Right-click in the empty space, select 'New' > 'DWORD (32-bit) Value', and create a new key named `BypassNRO`. Set the value to '1' and click 'OK'.

6. Close Editors:

Close both the Registry Editor and Task Manager.

Disconnect from Network and Setup Local Account

1. Disconnect Network:

In the command prompt, type `ipconfig /release` to disconnect from your network. This step ensures you aren't forced to sign in with a Microsoft account due to internet access.

2. Complete Setup:

Exit the command prompt, click 'Back', and proceed to set up your device. You can now create a username (e.g., user) and opt to skip the password.

3. Finalize Settings:

Adjust privacy settings by turning off sliders and accept to finish setup.

Post-Setup Adjustments

Once logged into your local account, you may notice you do not have a network connection.

1. Restore Network Connection:

If you do not wish to restart your computer, right-click on the Start button, select 'Windows PowerShell (Admin)', and type `ipconfig /renew` to regain internet access.

2. Verify Account Status:

You can check that you are logged into a local account by going to Settings > Accounts. Your account should display as local and have administrative rights.

 

Conclusion

This method allows you to use a local account on Windows 11 Home 23H2 without signing into a Microsoft account. While straightforward, please proceed with caution, especially when making changes in the registry editor. I hope this guide has been helpful. If you liked it, please show your support by liking the video and subscribe for more useful tips.

I'll talk to you guys soon.
Memory

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How to Mirror Android to PC or Laptop [USB & Wireless] (Tutorial)

 

In this quick guide I will show you how to mirror and control any Android device on your computer for free using a program called SCRCPY, which stands for Screen Copy. 

So, if you've been wondering how to use the SCRCPY mirroring application to control your Android phone or tablet from your PC via USB or wireless, this guide is for you as I'll take you through the entire process step-by-step.

 

Also, if you find this guide helpful, please consider liking the video below and subscribing to the channel.

 Mirror Android to PC or Laptop with SCRCPY

 Step 1: Gather Necessary Equipment

To get started, you will need the following items:
- An Android smartphone or tablet
- A computer
- A USB cable for initial setup

Note: The USB connection is only required for the initial setup. If your computer and Android device are on the same network, you can also mirror and control your device wirelessly.

Step 2: Install Required Software

You will need to download and install a free software called SCRCPY (screen copy).

You can search for it on Google or download it from the SCRCPY Github Page.

Just scroll down to the assets and download either the 32bit or 64bit version depending on your computer operating system.

Step 3: Enable Developer Mode on Your Android Device

- Open the settings on your Android device. You can do this by scrolling down the notification bar and tapping the settings icon.
- Scroll down to "About phone." If you can't find it, use the search function in settings.
- In "About phone," find "Software information" and tap on it.
- Tap on the "Build number" seven times to enable developer mode.

Step 4: Enable USB Debugging

- Return to the main settings menu and search for "Developer options."
- Inside Developer options, scroll down to find "USB debugging" and enable it.
- You will see a prompt; click on "OK" to confirm.

Step 5: Connect Your Device to the Computer

- Connect your Android device to your computer using the USB cable.
- Once connected, you might receive a prompt on your phone asking to allow the connection.

Step 6: Set Up SCRCPY

- Extract the downloaded SCRCPY zip file to a preferred location, such as the C drive on your computer.
- Navigate to the extracted SCRCPY folder and find the file named "scrcpy-noconsole.vbs."
- Double-click this file to start mirroring your Android device to your computer.

Optional: Set Up Wireless Connection

If you prefer to connect wirelessly:
- Ensure both your computer and Android device are connected to the same network.
- In the SCRCPY folder, double-click the "open a terminal here.bat" file to open a command prompt.
- Type `scrcpy --tcpip`, hit enter, this will establish a wireless connection.
- Once set up, you can disconnect the USB cable and continue mirroring your android device wirelessly.

Conclusion

You should now have full control over your Android device from your computer, both via USB and wirelessly, depending on your setup. For those interested in additional customization, you can explore further commands by typing `scrcpy --help` in the command prompt.

I hope you found this guide useful. Don't forget to like and subscribe for more tips and tutorials.

Talk soon!
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How to Install Okular PDF without the Microsoft Store on Windows 10 & 11 (Tutorial)

 

Welcome to this quick guide where I'll walk you through the steps to install the Okular PDF Viewer on your Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC without using the Microsoft Store. 

 

If you find this information helpful, don't forget to hit the like button on the video below and subscribe to the channel for more useful tips.

 

Installing Okular

You can install Okular by following these steps:
 

Step 1: Download from the Official Website

- Visit the Okular webpage and scroll down to find the download button.
- Although primarily a Linux application, Okular can also be installed on Windows.
- While the website recommends using the Microsoft Store, there's an alternative method for installation.

Step 2: Downloading the Installer

- Clicking the Install button will initiate the download of an installer.
- The installer typically attempts to open the Microsoft Store for installation, but this may not be an option for all users.

Step 3: Using the Microsoft Store Link Generator

- If you encounter issues with the Microsoft Store, copy the URL of the app page.
- Search for the "Microsoft Store link generator" and access the corresponding webpage.
- Paste the URL ( https://www.microsoft.com/store/apps/9n41msq1wnm8 ) into the provided field and click the search icon to generate results.
- Look for the package ending in ".appx" and click to download it.
- Once downloaded, open the .appx bundle file and follow any prompts to install Okular on your computer.

Alternative Method: Using Chocolatey

Another way to install Okular is by utilizing Chocolatey, a package manager for Windows:
 

Step 1: Obtain the Installation Command

- Visit the Chocolatey webpage for Okular to find the installation command.
- Copy the command provided on the webpage or below.

choco install okular

Step 2: Installation via PowerShell

- Right-click on the Start button and open Windows PowerShell as Admin.
- Paste the copied command into the PowerShell window and press Enter.
- This command instructs Chocolatey to install Okular on your system.
- Follow any prompts or dependencies that may be required for the installation to proceed.

You can also use the following commands once Okular is installed:

Update Okular - choco upgrade okular

Uninstall Okular - choco uninstall okular

Conclusion

By following either of these methods, you can successfully install Okular on your Windows PC without relying on the Microsoft Store. Once installed, you'll have access to a reliable PDF viewer for your documents. 

 

If you found this guide helpful, don't forget to like the video and stay tuned for more informative content.

See ya!

Memory

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