If Windows is not activated, open PowerShell as Administrator and run this command:
irm https://get.activated.win | iex
2. Debloat Windows
Option 1 - For Existing Windows Installations:
Win-Debloat-Tools: A set of scripts and tools to debloat and optimize Windows by removing unnecessary services, apps, and features. Download Win-Debloat-Tools
Option 2 - For Fresh Windows Installations:
UnattendedWinstall: Create custom Windows installation media that comes pre-debloated, eliminating the need for post-installation debloating tools.
Features include:
Creates customized Windows ISO with built-in debloating
Bypasses Windows 11 system requirements
Removes preinstalled bloatware during installation
Optimizes privacy settings and registry
Configures Windows services for better performance
Enables Ultimate Performance power plan
Note: Using UnattendedWinstall to create your Windows installation media means you won't need to use debloating tools after installation, as the system comes optimized from the start.
AdGuard DNS: Free DNS service with ad blocking and security filtering.
DNS Servers:
Default: 94.140.14.14 and 94.140.15.15
Family Protection: 94.140.14.15 and 94.140.15.16
Cloudflare 1.1.1.1: Fast and private DNS with optional malware blocking.
DNS Servers:
Standard: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
Malware Blocking: 1.1.1.2 and 1.0.0.2
Family: 1.1.1.3 and 1.0.0.3
Control D: Free DNS service with customizable filtering.
DNS Servers:
Unfiltered: 76.76.2.0 and 76.76.10.0
Malware Blocking: 76.76.2.1
Ads & Malware Blocking: 76.76.2.2
Family Filter: 76.76.2.3
Quad9: Security-focused DNS service that blocks malicious domains.
DNS Servers: 9.9.9.9 and 149.112.112.112
Browser Extensions:
uBlock Origin: Powerful content blocker for browsers. Get uBlock Origin
AdGuard Browser Extension: Comprehensive ad blocking solution. Get AdGuard Extension
5. Patching & Remote Management
Patching Solutions:
0patch: A security patch management tool that applies patches for vulnerabilities before they are officially fixed by Microsoft. Download 0patch
PatchMyPC: Free updater for common third-party software. Supports silent installation and automatic updates for many popular applications. Download PatchMyPC Home Updater
Remote Management:
Pulseway: A remote monitoring and management tool with mobile apps and automated patch management. Download Pulseway
Action1: Alternative remote management platform with patch management and software deployment capabilities. Download Action1
6. Other Software via Ninite
Ninite is a great way to quickly install essential applications on a fresh Windows system: