Why Windows Installation Files Keep Growing Larger
AI features are consuming small storage spaces rapidly.
1The Growth Trend of Windows Installation Files
From Windows 11 version 24H2 to 25H2, multi-edition download sizes increased significantly. Michael Niehaus's analysis shows approximately 6,000 new folders and over 20,000 new files were added during this period. ISO file sizes have been consistently growing since Windows 10's initial release. The current Windows 11 ISO file is 6.8 GB, nearly double the size of Windows 10's first release.
2Impact of AI Models on Storage
The primary reason for large update sizes is the inclusion of AI-related code. Specifically, 3GB of shared AI models used by Copilot+ PCs significantly increases update package sizes. Interestingly, these files are also downloaded to standard PCs without NPUs, only to be ignored during installation, leading to unnecessary storage consumption.
3Increasing Hardware Requirements
Microsoft's official Windows 11 system requirements specify a minimum of 64GB storage for the system drive. Tests show that installing the latest Windows 11 version on a virtual machine consumes 28.2GB of storage space just for the OS and updates. This means about half of the drive is filled before installing any applications or user data.
4Historical Perspective: Windows' Growth Journey
Windows being labeled as 'bloated software' isn't new. Criticism from 20 years ago described Windows XP as 'a monstrous brute requiring state-of-the-art PC and 2GB hard disk space.' The difference today is that simply adding more hardware isn't a feasible solution due to rising component prices.
5Expert Insight: Michael Niehaus's Analysis
Windows deployment expert Michael Niehaus, with 16 years at Microsoft, provides valuable perspective. According to Niehaus, now at 2Pint Software, Windows size keeps growing due to updates and especially Copilot+ integration. He warns this growth could create serious problems for users with limited storage space.
6Practical Consequences for Users
Windows' growing size particularly challenges users with small SSDs. When over half of system drive is consumed just by the OS, little space remains for applications and personal files. This situation forces users to either purchase larger storage drives or compromise on system performance.
7Microsoft's Approach and Future Expectations
Microsoft clearly continues integrating AI features into Windows, which may further increase system requirements. With rising memory and storage prices, how Microsoft will manage this growth remains to be seen. Users hope for more optimized solutions in future Windows versions.
8Conclusion: Windows' Evolution and User Impact
Windows' continuous size growth reflects the OS's adaptation to new technologies. However, this creates significant challenges for users with limited hardware resources. Microsoft needs to balance AI feature integration with system efficiency. For now, users should review their storage capacity and prepare for future updates.
Original article: Latest news — Windows Kurulum Dosyaları Neden Sürekli Büyüyor?