Getting the latest features and security updates

[Selim GURSU]

I created an unattended ISO with Windows_11_Enterprise_LTSC_24H2_2024, but I'm getting the "Getting the latest features and security updates" screen. This window didn't appear when I worked with the same ISO many times before. The PC was connected to the internet then too. I don't understand why this is happening today. I made a couple of minor changes to the privacy settings; could that be the reason?

 

[garlin]

Starting last year, OOBE can force an install of pending Monthly Updates.
Mandatory OOBE Updates coming to W11 22H2+ in the September 2025 CU

Whether your PC gets selected depends on the server response from MS. Sometimes they enforce it, sometimes they don't.
Most of the time they will. The normal solution is to make sure your install image is already up to date.

 

[Selim GURSU]

Is there a setting in NTLite to skip this section?

 

[garlin]

No. Because there is no "official bypass", other than breaking unrelated Windows features in order to stop it. Some users disable Cloud content, but that also breaks Spotlight. You're on Enterprise LTSC, so it probably doesn't matter.

IMO the best hack is to block sdx.microsoft.com in the HOSTS file, since most users aren't using AutoPilot.

 

[Selim GURSU]

No. Because there is no "official bypass", other than breaking unrelated Windows features in order to stop it. Some users disable Cloud content, but that also breaks Spotlight. You're on Enterprise LTSC, so it probably doesn't matter.

IMO the best hack is to block sdx.microsoft.com in the HOSTS file, since most users aren't using AutoPilot.

I disable the internet during setup; it makes it easier.

 

[Selim GURSU]

How do I block "sdx.microsoft.com"? Do I need to do this setting in NTLITE, or how do I do it?

 

[garlin]

Edit the HOSTS file in the mounted image folder.

 

[Selim GURSU]

Edit the HOSTS file in the mounted image folder.

I have no idea how to do this with NTLite, could you please help me?

 

[koolkevbo]

I have no idea how to do this with NTLite, could you please help me?

HOSTS is usually located here.... C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\HOSTS -- or you can just make a HOSTS file yourself:
Open notepad, put in:

127.0.0.1 sdx.microsoft.com

Save this file as HOSTS without an extension. Then use AnyBurn to modify your ISO to replace the HOSTS file. Do all this after you've created your ISO in ntlite.

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this is just one way... outside of ntlite anyways.

 

[Selim GURSU]

HOSTS is usually located here.... C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\HOSTS -- or you can just make a HOSTS file yourself:
Open notepad, put in:

127.0.0.1 sdx.microsoft.com

Save this file as HOSTS without an extension. Then use AnyBurn to modify your ISO to replace the HOSTS file. Do all this after you've created your ISO in ntlite.

----

this is just one way... outside of ntlite anyways.

Great, I'm rid of that window now. I hope this address we added doesn't prevent me from receiving updates.