Microsoft is testing a new tool called Cloud Rebuild that lets Windows 11 users reinstall the operating system directly through Windows Update, without needing to create a bootable USB installation drive, according to ITHARDWARE.
The feature is currently available only in the beta channel of the Windows Insider program, in Preview Build 26220.9343.
Cloud Rebuild performs a clean installation of Windows 11 and restores a computer to working order when it has stopped functioning normally. Before installing, it downloads a system image along with the necessary drivers from the cloud.
The key difference from the existing "Reset this PC" feature is that Cloud Rebuild does not require a working installer already present on the machine. That makes it useful in cases where Windows 11 fails to start properly or does not work at all, ITHARDWARE reported.
How to access Cloud Rebuild
The tool is reached through the Windows Recovery Environment, the built-in system used to diagnose and repair a malfunctioning PC. Once inside WinRE, a user selects "Troubleshoot," then "Recovery and removal," followed by "Cloud rebuild."
The system then checks for the appropriate version of Windows and downloads the necessary files. Before installation begins, the user can choose which version of Windows 11 to install and select a language.
Microsoft has also improved networking within WinRE to support the feature. Windows can now reuse previously saved Wi-Fi profiles, so users do not have to reconfigure their network connection in order to carry out the recovery process.
Process wipes all data
Cloud Rebuild completely erases the drive it runs on, removing not only system files but also user data, including files stored on the device, system settings and installed programs. Because of this, it is recommended that users back up their data before starting the process.
The feature is aimed at people who want to save time and would rather not download a full ISO image from Microsoft's website and build a separate installation drive. With Cloud Rebuild, the system handles the download and reinstallation on its own.
Cloud Rebuild remains an experimental feature, and it is not yet known whether or when it might be included in a final, stable release of Windows 11.
