Dism or classical install -- which

jimbo45 · Nov 3, 2021

Hi folks
Was wondering what method people chose for installing (initial install) W11 -- via dism /Apply-Image and then bcdboot to install boot mgr or the "classical way" via setup.exe and why.

I always use dism /Apply-Image because I never get boot problems with iso's having install.wim file > 4GB or so, and can also without isue install to VHDX virtual disks (not VM's BTW) on internal / external media (so easily making portable WindowstoGo systems) . You don't need to make bootable media either if doing a "clean install". For clean install on empty HDD simply use winpe / macrium free using diskpart tp "prep" the hdd. The iso will be recognised too. Much better IMO - especially if the iso won't boot.

The disdavantage of this method (if it really is one) is that you need to "prep" the partitions in advance - system UEFI one, msr and your data area -- although that's not difficult. A "Classical install" will create partitions as required. Note for those installing to vhdx "Physical Virtual hard drives) no need for gpt disks (better not in fact).

just wondering other peoples thoughts and experiences on this

Cheers
jimbo

barman58 · Nov 3, 2021

I've used all sorts of methods over the years a lot of the methods available these days were not available when I started, but it was mostly a standard install for the regular systems up to image loads for multiple Identical systems for business.

Currently I'm leaning towards using Rufus to install an ISO - just due to speed and ease of use it installs a working OS to either a conventional or WtG setup

The-Hive · Nov 3, 2021

I always use Windows update as it kept all my settings etc. and I am not confident or knowledgeable to try other methods in case it goes wrong :ROFLMAO:

cereberus · Nov 3, 2021

jimbo45 said:
Hi folks
Was wondering what method people chose for installing (initial install) W11 -- via dism /Apply-Image and then bcdboot to install boot mgr or the "classical way" via setup.exe and why.

I always use dism /Apply-Image because I never get boot problems with iso's having install.wim file > 4GB or so, and can also without isue install to VHDX virtual disks (not VM's BTW) on internal / external media (so easily making portable WindowstoGo systems) . You don't need to make bootable media either if doing a "clean install". For clean install on empty HDD simply use winpe / macrium free using diskpart tp "prep" the hdd. The iso will be recognised too. Much better IMO - especially if the iso won't boot.

The disdavantage of this method (if it really is one) is that you need to "prep" the partitions in advance - system UEFI one, msr and your data area -- although that's not difficult. A "Classical install" will create partitions as required. Note for those installing to vhdx "Physical Virtual hard drives) no need for gpt disks (better not in fact).

just wondering other peoples thoughts and experiences on this

Cheers
jimbo

It really depends on your start point.

I never use Rufus except on rare occasion O create a WTG drive.

If clean installing as only OS, use bootable iso.

If creating a dual boot system, I prefer dism as you can carry on using OS in mean time.

If creating dual boot using vhdx files, I prefer to install in HyperV first as UEFI so it has all partitions to boot from in HyperV. Then you can add a simple boot entry to native boot vhdx file.

I never use legacy bios booting anymore - my current laptop does not even support it.

GCG1000 · Nov 3, 2021

The-Hive said:
I always use Windows update as it kept all my settings etc. and I am not confident or knowledgeable to try other methods in case it goes wrong

DITTO.

Quandary · Nov 3, 2021

For my recent clean install over the Win 11 Insider Beta:
- downloaded the official MS ISO and stored it in my Ventoy USB stick
- booted Ventoy, selected the Win 11 ISO
- selected clean install and pointed it at the existing C: drive
All was fine. The dates of all folders files in the EFI and recovery partition did not change, but a few files were updated. It appears these partitions were updated not recreated.

pparks1 · Nov 3, 2021

Pretty much use an ISO install. If it's a VM, I boot straight from the ISO and install. If a physical machine, I boot from a USB key that was either made with the MCT or Rufus.

NavyLCDR · Nov 3, 2021

It all depends on what I am trying to accomplish.

Dism or classical install -- which

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