Windows 11 Running with 184MB of RAM Challenges 4GB Requirement

Running Windows 11 with Minimal RAM: A Remarkable Achievement

Windows 11’s official system requirements stipulate at least 4GB of RAM for optimal functionality. In today’s computing landscape, this minimum has become somewhat standard; however, many users are still grappling with lesser memory capacities. Despite the significant constraints that come with only having 4GB, there are individuals eager to install the latest Windows 11 on even less capable machines.

Operating Windows 11 with only 2GB of RAM is far from ideal, yet a recent project showcases an extraordinary feat: running this operating system with just 184MB of RAM. This stark contrast to the official minimum requirements highlights the ingenuity behind recent technological modifications.

The Tiny11 Project: A Game Changer

NTDEV, the creator behind the Tiny11 project, has unveiled a modified, lightweight version of Windows 11 specifically designed for lower resource utilization. In a recent YouTube demonstration, NTDEV showcased Windows 11 version 24H2 running on a virtual machine equipped with a mere 184MB of RAM.

Below is a tech demo of Windows 11 24H2 running on just 184MB of RAM!
As it turns out, you can even multitask! https://t.co/zP7KqfKf3W
pic.twitter.com/HFMgcdup3Y

— NTDEV (@NTDEV_) January 7, 2025

While it’s important to note that this modified operating system primarily booting in safe mode operates at a significantly reduced speed, it nonetheless demonstrates basic functionalities. Remarkably, users can even multitask, as evidenced by running Notepad alongside File Explorer with this astonishingly low memory footprint.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rtbe_iufKyg

Windows 11 24H2 on 184MB of RAM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rtbe_iufKyg)

NTDEV’s Innovative Endeavors

This venture is not NTDEV’s first unprecedented project. Previously, NTDEV showcased Windows 11 version 24H2 LTSC functioning from a DVD using LZX compression, and even demonstrated the possibility of running Windows 11 on the iPhone 15 Pro—albeit with minimal performance. Additionally, NTDEV crafted a version of Windows 11 that only demands 3GB of disk space.

The achievements of NTDEV not only highlight the potential for operating systems to be adapted for legacy hardware but also underscore the ever-evolving landscape of computing. As the industry progresses, it’s fascinating to observe how innovations can make advanced systems accessible to a broader range of devices.

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