Dev Tools · 2h ago
Microsoft lets you reinstall Windows 11 from the cloud without a USB drive
Microsoft is testing a cloud-based Windows 11 reinstallation feature that downloads the OS with appropriate drivers, eliminating the need for a USB drive or product key. The option appears in the Windows Recovery Environment under 'Cloud download' and is currently available to Windows Insiders. This simplifies the reinstall process, making it faster and more accessible for users without external media.
Meridian48 take
This is a practical quality-of-life improvement, but Microsoft should ensure the cloud download is reliable and doesn't introduce new failure points for users with slow or metered internet connections.
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Sick of trying to find a USB and Windows key? Microsoft has just made reinstalling Windows 11 less painful →
TechRadar
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