> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.osdeploy.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.osdeploy.com/guide/basic.md).

# Basic Setup

Prepare an OSDeploy workstation, build boot media, and test the completed environment.

Use these steps to quickly prepare a Windows 11 workstation, build OSDeploy boot media, and create or test the media. Run the commands from an elevated PowerShell 7.6 or later session.

{% hint style="warning" %}
A valid Recast Software Community License is required when `Update-OSDeployCore` is called directly. Complete [Community Registration](/guide/registration.md) before running that update step. The software installation, boot build, Hyper-V, and USB commands shown here do not use the shared license gate.
{% endhint %}

## Complete the Basic Setup

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### [Install Required Software](/guide/basic/install-osdeploysoftware.md)

Install Windows ADK 25H2, its WinPE add-on, and 7-Zip:

```powershell
Install-OSDeploySoftware -Name 'adk-25h2', '7zip' -Force
```

{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### [Create OSDeployCore](/guide/basic/update-osdeploycore.md)

Download and prepare the Windows, recovery, and driver content used by OSDeploy:

```powershell
Update-OSDeployCore
```

{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### [Build an OSDeploy Boot Image](/guide/basic/build-osdeployboot.md)

Create customized WinPE media and ISO files:

```powershell
Build-OSDeployBoot
```

{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### [Test OSDeploy Boot in Hyper-V](/guide/basic/new-osdeployhypervm.md)

Create and start a Hyper-V virtual machine from the newest OSDeploy boot ISO:

```powershell
New-OSDeployHyperVM
```

{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### [Create a new OSDeploy USB](/guide/basic/new-osdeploybootusb.md)

Create a bootable USB drive from a completed build:

```powershell
New-OSDeployBootUSB
```

{% hint style="danger" %}
This command removes every partition and all data from the selected USB disk. Verify the disk number, model, and size before approving the clear operation.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}


---

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