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FAQ

What is this project?

Declarative Windows configuration management - like NixOS, but for Windows. The goal is to reinstall Windows every 2 months without manual reconfiguration.

What's the current status?

Implementation phase. MVP scripts exist (bootstrap.ps1, build-iso.ps1). See TODO.md for remaining tasks.

What will this do when it's finished?

One command generates a custom Windows ISO. Boot from it, choose the target disk yourself, and post-install setup continues automatically:

  • Apps installed via WinGet
  • OS tweaks applied via Sophia Script
  • Automated Windows setup via autounattend.xml

Before reinstall, you can also run a declarative backup workflow that preserves common folders and extra configured paths.

What Windows versions are supported?

Windows 11 only (24H2 or later). Windows 10 is not supported.

Do I need to create a custom ISO?

No. You can also:

  1. Install Windows normally
  2. Run the bootstrap script manually

The custom ISO is just for full automation.

How do I get my app list?

winget export -o apps.json

Then edit the JSON to remove unwanted apps.

If you want some apps to stay optional after reinstall, create optional-apps.json with the same WinGet manifest format. Bootstrap prompts for it after first login and also creates Install Optional Apps.lnk for later use.

Where does the repo live after reinstall?

The installer tries to clone the original repo remote into %USERPROFILE%\Documents\declarative-windows.

If cloning fails, setup continues from C:\Setup and you can retry later.

What files should stay out of git?

Keep personal/system-specific files out of version control:

  • apps.json
  • config\backup.json
  • backup manifests and reports
  • machine-specific exports

Use the committed templates for shared defaults.

Is it safe to commit my config to Git?

Only if you follow SECURITY.md guidelines:

  • Never commit passwords or product keys in autounattend.xml
  • Keep personal apps.json out of version control (it's in .gitignore)

More Questions?