5 December 2025

Windows Reinstall Checklist

  1.  Reinstall Windows 11 25H2 from ISO/USB
    1. On Ubuntu, use VenToy with the ISO
  2. If complete OOBE online, usernames will be shortened to 4 characters.
    1. Latest OOBE online asks many more questions
  3. Reinstall drivers
    1. Check Device Manager is not missing any like Fingerprint or Airplane Mode
    2. Rename Headphones if required
    3. Install DirectX Redistributable
    4. Enable .Net Framework 3.5 in Windows features (for gaming)
  4. Complete Windows Update
    1. Config
  5. Run checks_and_clean.bat to ensure clean Windows install
    1. To be uploaded to source
  6. Reinstall apps
    1. Use a Beyond Compare snapshot, or a UniGetUI export
    2. Install AV
    3. Repair Library on on Steam directories. Include app manifest when restoring the directories.
  7. Restore any data
    1. If copying between Linux and Windows, 7z or .zip files to drop the NTFS ACLs
    2. Google Chrome - Session Buddy, FVD Speed Dial
    3. AppData for game saves
    4. RetroArch in Steam directory
    5. App other installed games launchers outside of Steam
  8. Start menu structure - partially backed up by Windows
  9. Map any network drives