● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportMedium impact1 neutral
Windows 11 Gains Cloud Rebuild Feature for OS Reinstallation Without Boot Media
Key points
- Cloud Rebuild allows Windows 11 reinstallation from the cloud.
- It works even if the existing Windows installation is corrupted.
- The feature is available in Windows 11 Insider Beta Preview Build 26220.9343.
- It removes the need for a USB installation drive for recovery.
Introducing Cloud Rebuild for Windows 11
Microsoft has rolled out Cloud Rebuild, a new recovery feature for Windows 11. This functionality enables users to reinstall the operating system directly from the cloud, addressing situations where the current Windows installation is corrupted or fails to boot. The feature is currently in beta, accessible through Windows 11 Insider Beta Preview Build 26220.9343.
How Cloud Rebuild Works
Cloud Rebuild restores a Windows 11 PC to a clean state by downloading a fresh OS image and necessary drivers via Windows Update. Unlike the existing 'Reset this PC' option, it does not rely on the health of the current Windows installation and eliminates the requirement for a USB drive or custom recovery image. The process is initiated from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) by selecting Troubleshoot > Recovery and uninstall > Cloud rebuild.
Improved Networking in WinRE
Alongside Cloud Rebuild, Microsoft has enhanced networking support within WinRE. The recovery environment can now utilize eligible Wi-Fi profiles saved in the existing Windows installation. This allows the PC to connect to the internet during recovery without requiring manual Wi-Fi configuration in WinRE, facilitating the download of necessary files for Cloud Rebuild.
Data Considerations and Post-Installation
It is important to note that Cloud Rebuild performs a complete wipe of the system drive, removing all local data, accounts, applications, and settings. Users are advised to back up important files before starting the process. After reinstallation, the PC boots into the Windows out-of-box experience. For admin-managed PCs using Windows Autopilot and Microsoft Intune, the system can automatically reconnect to organizational management infrastructure and restore assigned applications and policies.
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Reporting from
Microsoft introduced Cloud Rebuild for Windows 11, a new recovery feature that allows users to reinstall the operating system directly from the cloud, even if the existing installation is corrupted. This feature eliminates the need for a USB installation drive and is available in Windows 11 Insider Beta Preview Build 26220.9343, simplifying the process of restoring a non-booting system.