The Windows Setup experience has undergone various design iterations throughout the years, but it hasn’t changed significantly since the release of Windows Vista in 2007. The updated version retains the familiar design with visual elements (such as the title bar and buttons) from the Windows 8 era, but the background is now white. Some of the settings have been reorganized, and their descriptions have also been updated. When you start the computer with the bootable media, you will now have the option to select the install language, time, and currency.
The keyboard and input method are now on another page. On the third page, you will choose the installation methods, which include the “Install Windows 11” option to perform a clean installation and the “Repair my PC” option to access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to repair the current setup. Also, you now have to acknowledge that using this setup will erase everything on the computer. You can confirm or skip the activation on the “Product key” page.
It’s still possible to choose the edition of the operating system to install on your computer, and then there are the notices and license terms. In this updated version of the setup, you will still find the drive tools to delete and create partitions, as well as to load drivers. One of the differences with this release is that when clicking the “Next” button, the installation won’t install immediately. Instead, you will see a summary (like when using the Media Creation Tool) and then when you click the “Install” button to proceed with the installation.
Windows Recovery Environment
If you choose the “Repair my PC” option, you will be taken to the WinRE environment, where you can access troubleshooting tools such as Start Repair, Command Prompt, Uninstall Updates, UEFI Firmware Settings, System Restore, and System Image Recovery. The Windows Recovery Experience remains virtually untouched. However, Microsoft is updating the icons for each of the tools.
It’s important to note that Microsoft plans to maintain compatibility with legacy functionalities. However, the company notes that this update will impact some workflows. Although the Out-of-box Experience (OOBE) will remain virtually the same, one major change is that through the initial setup process, Copilot+ PCs will include a new page to turn on or keep Windows Recall disabled on Windows 11. Also, during the completion process (more specifically when downloading updates and finishing up the setup), you will notice a new slideshow detailing information about the features available on Windows 11.
More Resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
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