: If the uploader provides a checksum (SHA-256 or MD5), use a tool like PowerShell or Rufus to check that your downloaded file matches. Use a Virtual Machine
| Feature | Archive.org ISO | Official Microsoft ISO | |---------|----------------|------------------------| | | Unverified | Microsoft-signed | | Malware risk | High | None | | SHA-1 checksum provided | Rarely | Yes | | Latest updates included | Usually no | Yes (via Media Creation Tool) | | Legal to download | No (distribution rights unclear) | Yes | | Free license included | No (still requires purchased key) | No (requires key) | windows 11 iso download archive.org