Windows 11’s Cloud Rebuild can reinstall the operating system without a bootable USB drive or a custom installation image. It also works when the existing Windows installation cannot start, giving you a recovery option for a PC that will not boot.
The feature downloads a fresh Windows installation and device drivers through Windows Update. You can begin the process from Windows Settings if your PC still starts, or through the Windows Recovery Environment after repeated boot failures.
How Cloud Rebuild differs from Cloud Download
Windows 11 already includes a recovery option called Cloud Download. Cloud Rebuild goes further by retrieving both Windows and your device drivers from Windows Update. It does not require a functioning Windows installation to perform the reinstall.
That means you can start recovery even when the PC cannot reach Windows. You do not need to prepare USB installation media on another computer before beginning the rebuild.
Cloud Rebuild also includes a choice of how to remove your data before reinstalling Windows. IT administrators can initiate a rebuild remotely, too.
How to start Cloud Rebuild in Windows 11
The starting point depends on whether Windows can boot. Both routes take you into the Windows Recovery Environment.
If Windows still starts
- Open Settings.
- Go to System > Recovery.
- Select Rebuild PC.
Your computer will restart into the Windows Recovery Environment to continue the rebuild.
If Windows will not start
After repeated unsuccessful boot attempts, the PC will automatically enter the Windows Recovery Environment.
From there, select Troubleshoot > Recovery and uninstall > Cloud rebuild.
Connect and confirm the installation details
Once you reach Cloud Rebuild, connect the computer to Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Review the Windows build, edition, and language before proceeding.
You will also need to acknowledge the data loss warning to start the reinstall.
File removal and drive sanitization options
Cloud Rebuild lets you choose between removing your files and securely erasing them with your storage hardware’s erase capability.
Drive sanitization is irreversible. Review that choice carefully before confirming the rebuild, and back up important files beforehand.
Keep the PC connected to power throughout the process.
Windows 11 Cloud Rebuild availability
Cloud Rebuild is available through the optional KB5127936 update for Windows 11, with broader availability expected soon.
The feature performs a full Windows reinstall. Backing up your files and keeping the computer plugged in are preparation steps to complete before you begin.
FAQ
Can Cloud Rebuild reinstall Windows 11 if the PC will not boot?
Yes. After repeated failed startup attempts, the PC automatically enters the Windows Recovery Environment. You can then select Troubleshoot > Recovery and uninstall > Cloud rebuild.
Does Cloud Rebuild download device drivers?
Yes. Cloud Rebuild downloads both a fresh Windows installation and your device drivers through Windows Update.
What happens to my files during Cloud Rebuild?
You can choose to remove your files or securely erase them using your storage hardware’s erase capability. Secure sanitization cannot be reversed, so back up important files before starting.
