Overview
- Cloud Rebuild is a WinRE-based recovery path that downloads a Windows image and required drivers from Microsoft’s cloud so users no longer need USB installation media.
- Preview builds shown in Windows Insider releases on Monday and Tuesday include a new 'Dateien entfernen und bereinigen' option that instructs storage hardware to securely erase data before reinstalling the OS.
- For managed devices, Microsoft is testing enterprise controls that let IT remotely trigger a full rebuild, force a secure wipe, and specify which Windows version to install.
- Microsoft says the feature is experimental and should be used only on test devices and it requires Windows 11, a working Windows Recovery Environment, and an internet connection.
- If finalized, Cloud Rebuild could speed repairs and make passing on or disposing of PCs safer by reducing the risk of post-reset file recovery, and it will change how IT teams handle device reimaging and decommissioning.