FR33THY’S TWEAK GUIDE

Disclaimer
I’m not responsible if you break your OS or PC, loose anything or get hacked at a later date by
following this guide. Follow below at your own risk.

This guide has all the tweaks I have collected over the years. I have personally grinded through
them all testing, tweaking and benchmarking. Doing my best to be sure they are not placebo.
Also doing my best to make sure my testing methods are not flawed or variable. This guide is
for the max performance, lowest latency and a competitive advantage for gaming. Some of the
tweaks will make your PC vulnerable, be aware and use a separate OS and system for gaming.
Feel free to do what you are comfortable with, no one is judging if you skip steps.

Remember less is more...

This guide will constantly be updated, so please come back and recheck it regularly.
I did not invent or discover any of these myself, this list is compiled from the internet and
personally tested by me. I can’t take credit for the tweaks themselves but I can take credit for
compiling everything and spending the time to debunk/test them.

A big flaw has been discovered with new windows versions.

All windows versions 1809 + have a forced synthetic QPC timer of 10mhz.
Previous versions are true TSC between 2-4mhz (give or take) depending on the CPU speed.
As far as low latency and high performance, an older version under 1809 is the way to go.
I believe this synthetic timer is something to do with spectre, meltdown or security.
We all may be all on linux in the future with the way windows is going, time will tell.

Microsoft locked this thread, it’s worth reading…

https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/queryperformancefrequency-returns-
10mhz-on-windows/44946807-5355-4b36-ba3e-43aa86ce30c0

This guide was made for windows 10 pro 1809 redstone 5 october 2018 update.
Why?! To keep up to date with things, it’s easier to apply all tweaks from a later version to an
older version vs the other way round. Do I recommend 1809, No! Many of the tweaks can be
used in older versions so keep reading. Although I highly recommend a fresh install.

1903 also has the synthetic timer of 10mhz, including a serious kernel latency issue.
Avoid 1903...

If you really want raytracing you will need 1809 or above. My friends and I have tried to swap
and edit system files in 1809/1903 from older versions to bring back the true timer. All attempts
were unsuccessful. Stay posted, let’s hope we find a fix. That way you can have your cake and
eat it too, regarding raytracing. Although I think it's safe to say that anyone reading this guide,
including myself are not interested in raytracing.

Regarding low latency and high performance I would recommend...

- Windows 7 ultimate
(Build service pack 1)
Only up to dx11
The option to disable desktop composition natively

- Windows 8.1 pro

(Build 6.3.9600)
Up to dx 11.3

- Windows 10 pro 1709

(Build 10.0.16299)
Comes with all dx versions
If you choose 1709 please see “Windows 1709” below before you start this guide

-Desktop composition
8, 8.1 and 10 are fine in exclusive fullscreen which overrides composition
This is a huge problem if you play windowed mode or desktop style games
Some games refuse to run in exclusive fullscreen also which is a big problem
This can be disabled although not easily, read below for more details

- 2000 series graphics cards

Older windows 10 versions under 1709 are not supported

- z390 motherboards
There is finally USB drivers for windows 7 and z390 motherboards
http://www.smxdiy.com/thread-1518-1-1.html

-I highly recommend Windows 7 for raw latency and performance

This is HANDS DOWN the best performing OS for raw latency and performance

Windows 1809 or later “qpc timer”

Windows 1803 or earlier “qpc timer”

More on timers below

A big thank you to

All the creators of tweak guides linked below
All my friends who have helped me on this journey
Some names worth mentioning, thank you for your help guys
n1kobg, St1cky, Cindafella, Munty, Dev0x0, Kristjan, Markus, Narf, detox, TopSnek, Felipe
1tap1337s, Dreammjow, detox, Klubnjakk, Joana d'Arc, PanosXidis, Hybrid, lipz, John_,

If you have anything to add or correct please contact me

I will be happy to mention you in this guide for your efforts

I really don’t like calling this “MY” guide, it should be “OUR” guide.
Although someone needs to format and compile it, so here we are.
This will be eventually be ported to a website so stay posted.

Support me
Consider supporting me, I do not expect donations although the offer is there.
If you really want to support me subscribing to my discord, youtube and twitch is enough.
Thank you in advance...

Discord
Use this discord invite link
https://discord.gg/pTc37y7

YouTube
I make pc, windows and gaming optimization guide videos.
https://youtube.com/c/FR33THY

Twitch
I stream pc, windows and gaming optimization guide content.
https://twitch.tv/fr33thy

Twitter
I provide pc, windows and gaming optimization guide services.
To boost performance, fps, responsiveness, lower latency and improve throughput.
Including tech support, advice, training and teaching for a fair priced fee.
https://twitter.com/fr33thytweaks

Instagram
I'll occasionally post random photos here.
https://instagram.com/fr33thy/

Paypal
Feel like supporting me, send a donation.
https://paypal.me/FR33THY

Patreon
Another way of showing support.
https://patreon.com/fr33thy/

GOOGLE DRIVE

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1D5wcsgheEs9ickPv1ssGbDxrhqU0YzyB
All the shortcuts, scripts, reg files and programs you need for this guide

Some programs may be a false positive flagged by your antivirus

Keep in mind, running the script/reg files straight away may not apply
This is due to windows permissions, recheck manually as shown below

Quick tip
Download the complete google drive to save time
Download this document as a .rtf file for easy viewing
Use wordpad to follow the guide through
Remember to come back, this list will be updated

COMPETITIVE HARDWARE

Desktop vs laptop
A desktop build is a must for performance
Although new laptops have come a long way, they still thermal throttle
Laptops also have limited bios settings most of the time

Motherboards
I highly recommend a good top end motherboard with good vrm and cooling
Check real reviews of boards from experts so you know what the motherboard is capable off
Never trust the manufacturers advertising, below are some reviewers I trust

Actual Hardware Overclocking

https://youtube.com/channel/UCrwObTfqv8u1KO7Fgk-FXHQ

Gamers Nexus
https://www.youtube.com/user/GamersNexus

Der8auer
https://www.youtube.com/user/der8auer

Many motherboard manufacturers claim to be high end nowadays are just not capable.
I have been burnt in the past by false advertising and quite possibly my lack of research.
A perfect example of this is the money I have wasted in the past on boards trying to get the
advertised memory speeds of 4000mhz. My ram kit and the board I had at the time was
“supposed’ to be supported it was just not capable of doing so because of bad design, bad vrm
cooling and bad vrm. It’s a tough subject but as a rough guide at this time many z390 boards
have good vrm and cooling.

You also want to consider the possibility of being locked out of options or simply BIOS options
being hidden from you. Things like High Precision Event Timer among many other things tend to
be excluded from user view and hidden in your BIOS. Without HPET option in bios you are
unable to try out ACPI Power Management Timer. You can get your bios unlocked and modified
like I did. There is a high risk doing this.

I was able to get my microcode flashed to remove spectre and meltdown patches, HPET option
unlocked, Intel Management Engine Interface option unlocked and TCO Timer unlocked. These
are all things to consider and worth talking about, I’m sure there are others.

Hard drives
Nvme or sata ssds for quick load speeds, boot times and no game stutters
I highly recommend steering clear of mechanical drivers unless you want them for storage

Processor
Intel "K" CPUs for overclocking
Most games only are really using 4 cores at this stage
New games are not optimized for more than 12 max threads/cores currently
Games most of the time perform better on just the cores, with hyperthreading disabled
INTEL recommended for lower overall latency
AMD CPU’s typically have higher latency and can’t run high end speed memory
AMD CPU’s are typically clocked lower and require more cycles to access memory or I/O

Graphics card
Nvidia XX80ti series GPU's
EVGA for older series
Cheapest “A” card for 1000 and 2000 series (bios can be flashed later)
Titan series GPU's are a waste of money
Only run one graphics card as sli or nvlink causes input lag
Sli or nvlink are only good for benchmarks and usually do not benefit game performance
Avoid AMD GPU’s, there are less options typically to remove input lag

Memory
At least 16gb of memory 3200hz DDR4 is the sweet spot for windows and most motherboards
High hz memory such as 4-4500hz DDR4 can help top end fps although only a little
Top end motherboards with good memory controllers are needed to run high hz memory
Low timing is crucial for memory at least 10 nanoseconds or lower is best
Try to pick something with solid speed and low latency
I highly recommend anything B Die at this stage
https://notkyon.moe/ram-latency.htm
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1fXhkcVexz0YaLLc7dlm_WXfAqqY4ldxScKFxNFxeNg
A/edit#gid=0

Cooling
Closed or custom loop water coolers for CPU and GPU recommended
There are some really good air coolers out there, I will always recommend/prefer water
I recommend closed loop systems, they are easy to work with and install
Lower GPU and CPU temperatures will perform and overclock better
https://alphacool.com
https://noctua.at/en/products/cpu-cooler-retail

Monitor
Run only one monitor to avoid input lag
Go for high refresh rate and low response time
I highly recommend a TN panel that is NOT freesync or gsync compatible
This is so you can set scaling to “display” NOT “gpu”
TN panels are worse for quality but have much lower latency
144-240hz refresh rate and 1ms (gtg) response time
Stick with 1920x1080p as higher resolutions kill frame rates
Displayport cable mostly recommended (ideally shorter the better)
Never use wireless devices
Do not run splitter or port boxes
Do not run extension cables

Keyboard
PS2 keyboards are debatably better for key rollover and latency
Although recently I have found the ps2 windows i8042prt driver to be a latency hog
If your getting a USB keyboard be sure to get NKRO (n-key rollover)
Mechanical switches are best (most gamers like cherry reds)
New optical keyboards have debatably lower latency
Never use wireless devices
Do not run splitter or port boxes
Do not run extension cables

Mouse
Anything over 1000hz polling is unstable unless we are talking about the WMO mice
Don't buy into the higher hz marketing, the stability isn't there yet
1000hz polling rate
Lightweight
No acceleration
No angle snapping
A shape that's comfortable for you
Decent sensor such as the new hero or 3366 sensor
Never use wireless devices (logitech are an exception)
Do not run splitter or port boxes
Do not run extension cables
Links worth looking at
https://teamliquid.net/forum/tech-support/333648-an-overview-of-mouse-technology
https://overclock.net/forum/375-mice/1607990-click-latencies-compiled.html#post_25414692
https://geekhack.org/index.php?
PHPSESSID=o780ih46rejjrmlb5tjkmac2mp1aluvl&topic=56240.0
http://www.test-gear.pl/testy-i-recenzje/myszki/szybkosc-kliku/#szybkosc-kliku
http://esreality.com/?a=longpost&id=1265679&page=4
http://www.test-gear.pl/testy-i-recenzje/myszki/
http://rocketjumpninja.com/top-40/
https://sensor.fyi/list/

Regarding wireless mouse, I have found in my testings with mouse tester that wireless mouse
can sometimes go into a “sleep state” while in full use. I have confirmed this with the g900 and
logitech wireless pro. Due to this, I now use these mice in wired mode.
See MICE TESTING below.

Mouse bungee
Get yourself a mouse bungee

Para cable
A new trend for mouse modding, it has been a nice upgrade from a factory clunky mouse cable

Mouse skatez
Worth mentioning here, many reddit users are on the skatez trend

Mouse pad
Ideally a cloth and large pad
Glass pads are becoming a new trend, I am unsure of how the sensor can read the mouse pad

External audio interface

Gaming, motherboard and normal sound cards have around 250ms total sound directx latency
Audio interfaces can get as low as half the above directx total sound latency
Gaming, motherboard and normal sound cards also tend to produce whine/static
I highly recommend an audio interface if viable
Never use wireless devices
Do not run splitter or port boxes
Do not run extension cables

Headphones
Gaming and normal headphones are not recommended
Studio monitoring headphones are best for true sound
Never use wireless devices
Do not run splitter or port boxes
Do not run extension cables

Clean power
Your house may have a bad earth or bad neutral connection.
This affects everything! Including latency, mouse input and PC performance.
Consider a power conditioner or UPS System that backs up and conditions power.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_conditioner
djdallmann’s github a good read
https://github.com/djdallmann/GamingPCSetup/blob/master/TROUBLESHOOTING/
ELECTRICALINTERFERENCE.MD

Pc build tips
Delid your CPU
Lap your CPU’s IHS
There are kits to run your CPU without an IHS
Repaste your CPU IHS with thermal grizzly conductonaut
Repaste your CPU cooler with thermal grizzly kryonaut
Repaste your GPU cooler with thermal grizzly kryonaut
Replace your GPU thermal pads
Replace your MOTHERBOARDS vrm thermal pads
Be aware of your case air flow and cooling
Lower GPU and CPU temperatures will perform better and overclock higher

I should mention, there are measures that need to be taken and risks to be considered using
liquid metal for cooling. Liquid metal can short circuit components the materials can corrode
copper heatsinks. Do your research. I personally only use liquid metal under the CPU’s IHS.

UPDATE BIOS & FIRMWARE

Motherboard bios (avoid spectre and meltdown bios patches)

Gpu bios (flash to a higher power target bios)
Router and modem firmware
Other devices firmware

BIOS TWEAKS

R0ach’s BIOS optimization guide

Dated, although a good read
http://overclock.net/t/1433882/gaming-and-mouse-response-bios-optimization-guide-for-
modern-pc-hardware

TURN CSM ON IN BIOS

INSTALL WINDOWS IN MBR LEGACY MODE

A windows legacy install will have lower latency and will perform slightly better
Legacy also provides a much more snappier and consistent mouse movement
UEFI will always have something running in the background
This is such a debatable topic, although this is what I have found in my tests
The trade off to legacy is longer boot times vs uefi
I highly recommend using MBR legacy for your windows install

Disable any unused devices

Usb ports
Usb controllers
Wifi
Bluetooth
Unused features etc
Less is more

BELOW APEX XI Z390 AS AN EXAMPLE OR GUIDE

Tool
Setup animator - disabled

Asus armory crate

Download & install armory crate app - disabled

Boot configuration
Fast boot -disabled
Above 4g decoding - disabled
Boot option #1 - select main boot drive and remove other boot selections
Ami native nvme driver support - off

Boot configuration
Boot logo display - disabled
POST report - 1 sec
Boot up numlock state - enabled
Wait for f1 if error - enabled
Option rom messages - disabled
Interrupt 19 capture - disabled
Setup mode - advanced mode

Csm (compatibility support module)

Launch csm - disabled (for uefi install)

(Below for legacy install)

Launch csm - enabled
Boot device control - legacy oprom only
Boot from network devices - ignore
Boot from storage devices - ignore
Boot from pci-e/pci expansion devices - ignore

Secure boot
Os type - other os
Delete all keys
Secure boot - disabled

Monitor
Cpu temperature led switch - off
Chassis intrusion detection supported - off
Water pump+ control - disabled
Aio pump control - disabled
High amp fan q-fan control - disabled
Waterpumps - set to 100% speed
3 pin fans - dc mode
4 pin fans - pwm mode
Set a fan profile that suits you

Advanced
Cpu configuration
Sw guard extensions (sgx) - disabled
Tcc offset time window - disabled
Hardware prefetcher - enabled
Adjacent cache line prefec - enabled
Intel virtualization technology - disabled

Hyper threading -

Enabled -
Faster workloads/processing/rendering
Better for encoding/streaming
Higher latency
Higher temps
Most of the time (lower fps - game engine dependant)
Can cause stutter

Disabled -
Slightly slower workloads/processing/rendering
Lower latency
Better response
Lower temps
Most of the time (higher fps - game engine dependant)
Less stutter
Better response
Better mouse input and feel

Hyperthreading will always have much more input latency then just the cores
Some games like Battlefield Multiplayer will benefit from hyperthreading ON
Although most games will not benefit and run smoother with hyperthreading OFF

Default is (Enabled)
Set to “Enabled” if you are unsure

I was proven wrong and I don’t use hyperthreading anymore

You will be able to overclock your CPU more or run a lower vcore voltage with HT disabled

Active processor cores - all

Thermal monitor - disabled
Execute disable bit - disabled

Cpu power management control

Boot performance mode - turbo performance
Intel speedstep - disabled
Intel speed shift technology - disabled
Turbo mode - enabled
Cpu c states - disabled
Cfg lock - disabled

System agent configuration

Vt-d - disabled
Above 4g decoding - disabled

Memory configuration
Memory remap - enabled

Dmi/opi configuration
Dmi max link speed - gen3

Peg port configuration

Pcie link speeds - gen3
Pcie spread spectrum clocking - disabled

Pch configuration
Pcie speed - gen3
High precision timer - unlocked with my custom BIOS mod
High precision timer - enabled

Enable TCO timer - unlocked with my custom BIOS mod

Enable TCO timer - disabled
Ioapic 24-119 entries - disabled

High precision event timer should always be enabled in the bios and disabled in the OS.
The only disadvantage of not having the HPET option unlocked/unhidden in your bios means
you cant use or try the ACPI PMT clock. I would not recommend the ACPI PMT clock anyway.

HPET is hidden and enabled by default in most motherboard bios’s now.

Having HPET - disabled in bios will give you a lower timer resolution, although this will also
cause major syncing issues. Including bad latency, mouse movement and performance.
This reflects in the timer resolution.

HPET “off” in bios & “off” in OS = a lowest timer res of 0.488XX

HPET “on” in bios & “off” in OS = a lowest timer res of 0.50000

More on this topic below

Pci express configuration

Pcie speed - gen3

Pch storage configuration

Sata controllers - enabled
Sata mode selection - ahci (don’t use raid it’s not reliable)
Aggressive lmp support - disabled
S.m.a.r.t. status check - disabled
Sata drives - disabled unused ports
Hot plug - disable all

Pch-fw configuration
Ptt configuration
Ptt - disable
ME state - unlocked with my custom BIOS mod = Intel Management Engine Interface
ME state - disabled (tested enabled vs disabled, disabled is fine - cold boot times longer)
ME state - disabled (tested enabled vs disabled, disabled is fine - cold boot times longer)

Tpm device selection - dtpm

Ptp aware os - ptp aware

Onboard devices configuration

Hd audio controller - disabled
Dvi port audio - disabled
Audio led lighting - disabled
When system is in working state - disabled
Q-code led function - disabled
Pch led lighting - disabled
Pciex16_3 bandwidth x4 mode
M.2 configuration - pcie mode
Hyper m.2 x16: - disabled
Usb power delivery in soft off state (s5) - disabled
Asmedia back usb 3.1 controller - enabled
Intel lan controller - enabled
Intel lan pxe option rom - disabled
Connectivity mode (wi-fi & bluetooth) - disable
Wifi - disabled
Bluetooth - disabled
Serial port - disabled

Apm configuration
Erp ready - disabled
Restore ac power loss - power off
Power on by ps/2 keyboard - disabled
Power on by pci-e/pci - disabled
Power on by ring - disabled
Power on by rtc - disabled

Pci subsystem settings

Sr-iov support - disabled
Platform misc configuration
Pci express native power management - disabled
Pci dmi aspm - disabled
Aspm 0 - disabled
L1 substates - disabled
Pci express clock gating - disabled
Ami link aspm control - disabled
Peg-aspm - disabled

Usb configuration
Legacy usb support - disabled (enable this to install windows in legacy mbr with usb)
Usb keyboard and mouse simulator - disabled
Xhci hand-off - enabled (I have found better mouse input with this on, test for yourself)

Usb single port override

Disable all unused ports

Network stack configuration

Network stack - disabled

Graphics configuration
Primary display - peg
Igpu multi-monitor - disabled

Ethernet connection/Nic configuration

Link speed - 100 mbps full
Wake on lan - disabled

Ai tweaker
Ai overclock tuner - xmp or manual
Xmp - xmp profile
Bclk frequency - 100
Bclk spread spectrum - disabled
Asus multicore enhancement - enabled - remove all limits
Svid behavior - best case scenario
Avx instruction core ratio negative offset - 0
Cpu core ratio - sync all cores
Core ratio - max turbo boost for cpu specs
Bclk frequency : dram frequency ratio 100:133 (ddr4 on some mobos prefer this vs 100:00)
Dram odd ratio mode - enabled
Dram frequency - set to max xmp profile
Oc tuner - keep current settings
Cpu svid support - disabled

Dram timing control

Maximus tweak - mode 2
Dram cas# latency - set to max xmp profile
Dram ras# to cas# delay - set to max xmp profile
Dram ras# act time - set to max xmp profile
Dram command rate - set to max xmp profile

External digi+ power control

Cpu load line calibration - level 6
Synch acdc loadline with vrm loadline - disabled
Cpu current capability - 140% (max)
Cpu vrm switching frequency - manual
Fixed spu vrm switching frequency(khz) - 500 (max)
Cpu power duty control - t.probe
Cpu power phase control - extreme
Cpu power thermal control - 120
Cpu vrm thermal control - enabled
Dram current capability - 130%

Internal cpu power management

Intel speedstep - disabled
Turbo mode - enabled
Long duration package power limit - 4095 (max)
Package power time window - 127 (max)
Short duration package power limit - 4095 (max)

Fclk frequency for early power on - 1ghz

BCLK spread spectrum - disabled
Cpu core/cache current limit max - 255.57 (max)
Ring down bin - disabled
Min cpu cache ratio - set to max for cpu specs
Max cpu cache ratio - set to max for cpu specs
Extreme over-voltage - disabled

Bclk aware adaptive voltage - disabled

Cpu core/cache voltage - manual mode
Cpu core voltage override - auto for now then
(find a stable value in stress testing for you and set it 1-1.4v)
Dram voltage - set to max xmp profile
Cpu vccio voltage - auto for now then
(find a stable value in stress testing for you and set it 1-1.3v)
Cpu system agent voltage - auto for now then
(find a stable value in stress testing for you and set it 1-1.3v)
Some low end motherboards will set SA and VCCIO voltages too low (under 1v)
In this case set it to a minimum 1.1v manually and stress test
This is for the memory controller and values will depend or ram specs and speeds

BELOW LAPTOP MSI GT73VR 6RF AS AN EXAMPLE OR GUIDE

Sata mode selection - ahci (don’t use raid it’s not reliable)
Intel(r) speedstep(tm) - enabled
(disabled for a desktop msi bios would not run turbo mode without this)
Erp lot 3 support - disabled
Wake up on lan s5 support - disabled
Win/fn key swap - disabled
Network stack - disabled
Intel virtualization technology - disabled
Vt-d - disabled
Thunderbolt firmware update - disabled

Cpu hyper-threading -
(See bios settings above regarding pros and cons with hyperthreading, leave enabled if unsure)

Cpu c states - disabled

(Enable these below to install windows in legacy mbr with usb)

Legacy usb support - enabled
Xhci hand-off - enabled (I have found better mouse input with this on, test for yourself)
Usb mass storage driver support - disabled

Usb transfer time-out - 20 sec

Device reset time-out - 20sec
Device power-up delay - auto

Full fan speed - disabled

Adjust cpu ratio - max turbo boost for cpu specs (or downclock if thermal throttling)
Adjusted cpu frequency - max turbo boost for cpu specs (or downclock if thermal throttling)
Adjust ring ratio - max turbo boost for cpu specs (or downclock if thermal throttling)
Cpu core voltage - auto for now then
(find a stable value in stress testing for you and set it 0.8-1.2v?)

Cpu core voltage offset - 0

Cpu ring voltage - auto for now then
(find a stable value in stress testing for you and set it 0.8-1.2v?)

Clock frequency - 10000 (max)

Vr current limit 1022 (max)

Power limit 1 - 500 (max)
Power limit 2 - 500 (max)

Dram profile - default dimm xmp profile

Bootup numlock state - enabled

Fast boot - disabled
Boot mode select - csm for legacy/uefi for uefi
(see above, legacy install recommended)

Boot option 1 - select main boot drive and remove other boot selections
Security device support - disable

Delete all keys

Secure boot - disabled
Secure boot mode - disabled

Overclock cpu & ram

Due to this topic being complex, I will leave this up to you (the reader) to configure.

Setting all ram timings manually is recommended or the motherboard will train and change them
to produce worse results, yes this includes rtl timings. I have found some motherboards will fight
against you when timings are left at automatic.

Stress test your CPU with a NON AVX stress tester, 90% of us will not be using AVX
Stress test your RAM with a decent stress tester
See A STABLE SYSTEM below

A FRESH INSTALL

I recommend following this guide in order below to avoid issues

Features and services change in windows constantly with updates
This guide is for 1809, many of the tweaks may be used in older versions also
Some services and options for older versions may change or be named differently, good luck

With this guide and 1809 you should be able to get down to around…
-4 background process
-23 windows processors
-440mb ram usage on bootup
With the system fully functional

This guide is not at all for security and will make things vulnerable
I recommend using a seperate drive and separate updated windows install for secure use
Use this guide, install drive, tweaks for gaming and performance use

Backup your files on an external hard drive before you go ahead with this
You might want to download and backup your network driver on a usb depending on the card
Unplug other hard drives to save yourself the hassle of creating a bootable system partition later
Windows skips creating a bootable system partition with other OS install drives connected

Follow the guide in order

Driver updates, windows updates and windows feature updates must be disabled in gpedit.msc
(Before you connect to the internet)
Any kind of major driver or os update/install may revert all your tweaks back to default
Windows will install drivers for you without a choice
Major changes such as sfc/ scannow, tron script and some repair programs will revert things
Be aware and save yourself the hassle of doing it all over again

A work around for security may be to install an old enterprise version (avoid 1809)
They typically come with 10 years of security updates
Although I do not recommend this from a performance standpoint
Security updates tend to ruin performance

Enterprise
I do NOT recommend LTSC 2019 enterprise
Others and myself have tested 1809 ltsc, it’s unstable for overclocked gaming rigs
Driver and device support can be a big issue for some systems (blue screens)
Older versions of enterprise are ok
Enterprise still comes with bloatware and will only save you a few minutes

Ntlite, msmg toolkit and winreducer

https://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/msmg_toolkit.html
https://www.ntlite.com/
https://www.winreducer.net/winreducer-ex-100.html

Feel free to use Ntlite, MSMG toolkit or Winreducer on your iso to save some time if you wish
Although, this guide includes stripping out everything manually so it’s up to you

Download windows iso

I have provided the genuine 1709 iso in my google drive
If you wish to find your own iso here are some options for you below

For the latest version, use an agent switcher on your web browser then go to
Microsoft download website
https://microsoft.com/en-au/software-download/windows10

Microsoft windows and office iso download tool

https://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/microsoft_windows_iso_download_tool.html

The eye
http://the-eye.eu/

Tech bench
https://tb.rg-adguard.net/public.php

Mount windows iso to a bootable usb

Rufas
https://rufus.ie/
Insert a usb - at least 8gb
Open Rufus Windows USB Tool
Create a bootable disk using - select (open iso file)
Device - usb
Boot selection - standard windows installation
Partition scheme - gpt partition scheme for uefi
- mbr partition scheme for legacy (recommended)
Target system - fat32 for uefi
- ntfs for legacy (recommended)
Cluster size - default
New volume label - insert a name here
Start

INSTALLING WINDOWS

IMPORTANT STEP - DISABLE INTERNET OR UNPLUG ETHERNET CABLE

Some usb BIOS settings may need to be turned on for a usb boot, see above
Set your bootable usb in BIOS to boot

(IF INSTALLING LEGACY INSTALL - CHOOSE NON UEFI USB TO BOOT)

Sometimes there will be two usb bootable options in bios select the one that does not say UEFI

Windows install
Language - English united states
Time - English united states
Keyboard - US

Activate windows - skip this step

Select - Windows 10 Pro

If this page does not show for your pc
It will install "home"
"Pro" can be activated later by following below

Accept terms - next

Custom: install windows only

Windows setup
Delete all partitions
Next
Installing windows

Windows needs to restart to continue

Once restarting take out usb OR change bios boot settings

Set region
Set keyboard layout
Skip 2nd keyboard layout if possible

DON’T CONNECT TO THE INTERNET

Connect now to save time later - no

Whos going to use this pc - insert name here

This is creating a local account
A local account is a must never link your windows account

Create a super memorable password

Leave blank - quick boot times (optional)

Make cortana your personal assistant - decline

Do more across devices with activity history - no

Choose privacy settings for your device - turn all off to no

(scroll down there are more settings to turn off)

Were getting everything ready for you

Upgrade to windows 10 pro

If windows installed home by default on your pc follow below
This usually happens on laptops, which will install home without giving you a choice
You NEED pro to use gpedit.msc commands, this is the only way to properly disable updates

In windows settings
System and security
Activation
Enter generic windows 10 pro product key
VK7JG-NPHTM-C97JM-9MPGT-3V66T
Activate and restart

Check you installed legacy

Run msinfo32
Bios mode - LEGACY

Run
Diskmgmt.msc
Right click, properties on disk
Volumes tab, partition style - MBR

If you wanted legacy and you see UEFI and GPT

You did something wrong, start over

Turn updates and driver installs off

Control Panel\System and Security\System
Advanced system settings
Hardware
Device Installation Settings
No

In gpedit.msc
Computer configuration
Administrative templates
Windows components
Windows update

Configure automatic updates - disabled

Specify intranet microsoft update service location - enabled

Enter these links below in boxes to the left
http:\\neverupdatewindows10.com
http:\\neverupdatewindows10.com
http:\\neverupdatewindows10.com

Remove access to use all windows update features - enabled

Do not connect to any windows update internet locations - enabled

Do not include drivers with windows updates - enabled

Restart pc

IT'S NOW SAFE TO CONNECT TO THE INTERNET

Activate windows 10 pro

Enable internet
Activate windows 10 pro with a key
Cheap ebay windows 10 pro keys can be found for around $2

In windows settings
System and security
Activation
Enter key
Activate

Change pc name
Control Panel\System and Security\System
Computer name
Insert name here
Change
Computer name
Insert name here
Restart pc

Install direct x
This might be needed on older os versions
Don’t install the bloatware bing bar

RECOMMENDED PROGRAMS

Recommended programs at this stage

NOTE all programs can be found in my google drive
Replace the windows default apps ASAP

I highly recommend using firefox as this is a fast web browser when tweaked
Firefox also has the least amount of telemetry
I go as far to not use edge or explorer at all, they do not even get opened once
Google chrome is very fast but has alot of telemetry
Desktop composition cannot be disabled for google chrome to work in windows 10
Further down is the option to uninstall edge and explorer if you wish

7zip - extract everything

https://7-zip.org/download.html

Firefox - web browsing - reading pdfs - with uBlock Origin addon

https://mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/

VLC Player - audio and 1k video

Old version 2.2.1 with flac codec fix recommended check my google drive
(It’s all done for you in the “VLC Player.7z” archive)
You might have problems setting VLC to default for files
Download and install the latest version and replace the files with my google drive ones
The new VLC player comes with alot of telemetry and has been much buggier for me
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1JsVS9MUJnd3Rud18zjvPQRMr1p3M59Wm
https://videolan.org/vlc/index.html

VLC Player - black skin - edark vlc

https://videolan.org/vlc/skins.html

Notepad++ - edit anything

https://notepad-plus-plus.org/download/v7.6.4.html

Uninstall "mozilla maintenance service"

Open 7zip as admin

Tools
Options
System
Associate 7zip with all files
Click plus on both tabs until associations are made for all

REMOVE BLOATWARE

Turn off uac

Control Panel\System and Security\Security and Maintenance
Change user account control settings - never notify

Clear out firewall

Control Panel\System and Security\Windows Defender Firewall
Advanced settings
Inbound rules - delete all
(Apart from firefox)
Outbound rules - delete all

Control Panel\System and Security\Windows Defender Firewall\Allowed apps

Private - tick all
Public - tick all
(Which should just be firefox at this stage)

In gpedit.msc
Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\System\Group Policy\
Continue experiences on this device - disable

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Start Menu and Taskbar\Notifications\

Turn off notifications network usage - enabled

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Windows Error

Reporting
Disable windows error reporting - enabled

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Data Collection

Allow telemetry - disabled
0 - security [enterprise only]

User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Data Collection

Allow telemetry - disabled
0 - security [enterprise only]

In regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Schedule\
Maintenance
MaintenanceDisabled=1

In windows settings
Accounts
Sign in options
Use my sign in info - off

In windows settings
Personalization
Start
Turn all off
Choose which folders appear on start
Turn all off (apart from settings)

Start menu
Unpin and uninstall all apps
Right click clear recent apps

Control panel\appearance and personalization

File explorer options
Privacy
Show recently used files in quick access - off
Show frequently used folders in quick access - off
Clear files explorer history - clear
Apply

Task bar
Right click taskbar
Cortana - hidden
Show task view button - off
Show people button - off
Show windows ink workspace button - off
Show touch keyboard button - off
Lock the taskbar - on

Unpin all icons shortcuts

Pin these icon shortcuts
Windows settings
Control panel
File explorer
Firefox

Add toolbars for programs if you wish

If on a laptop
Power icon
Power mode - best performance

Restart

Get winaero tweaker

https://winaero.com/download.php?view.1796

File explorer
With winaero tweaker remove
-Quick access
-Internet icon
-3d object icon

Set This PC to look like

Desktop
Documents
Downloads
Music
Pictures
Videos
C:\
D:\
E:\
Etc

SYSTEM RESTORE
System protection restore points have never saved any of my files or tweaks 100% properly.
I'd recommend starting again if things go south. Cloning your whole drive at the end of the guide
is a much better option in my opinion, I don't trust windows. I also disable the service for this
feature.

For most of you I recommend keeping system restore ON.

Disable and delete system protection
Control Panel\System and Security\System
Advanced system settings
System protection
Configure
Max usage - 1%
Apply
Delete
Disable system protection - on
Do this for all drives

Removing bloatware with the Ntlite livestrip feature

https://www.ntlite.com/
Ntlite has an amazing live strip feature, the free version does not support livestrip.

ADVANCED USERS ONLY

SKIP TO MANUAL REMOVAL BELOW IF UNSURE

FYI if you have made a custom ISO to install rather than live stripping. There are two bloatware
features that will still need a live strip. Run Ntlite with nsudo to be sure there are no permission
issues with using the live strip feature, shown below.

A recommendation of extra features to strip

1. bitlocker drive encryption - fvevol.sys
2. superfetch - rdyboost.sys

The will always run in the backend, cause latency issues and will generally cause a bluescreen
if disabled in the OS. This is a nice way to completely remove them.

After “bitlocker drive encryption - fvevol.sys” has been removed the driver “fvevol.sys” will still
run although is not needed. If disabled this will cause a bluescreen. Here is a method to disable
it safely.

Using RegOwnershipEx
https://winaero.com/download.php?view.57
Take ownership of
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{71A27CDD-812A-11D0-
BEC7-08002BE2092F}

Using Nsudo
http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/nsudo.html
Run regedit and delete “LowerFilters” in...
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{71A27CDD-812A-11D0-
BEC7-08002BE2092F}

In regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\fvevol
error control = 0
start = 4

THE NTLITE FEATURES LIST NOT TO REMOVE

This list will be constantly updated

Trusted Platform Module - can remove trees

Desktop Windows Manager - explorer broken
Internet Explorer - explorer broken
Performance Counter - can remove trees
Event Log - msi afterburner/riva tuner broken
Task Scheduler - msi afterburner/riva tuner broken
Diagnostic -
Device experience -
Legacy symbolic links - nvidia broken
Qos - breaks discord

Removing bloatware manually

Get 10AppsManager
https://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/10appsmanager.html
Run as administrator
Remove all

Get unlocker
Don't install the bloatware that comes with it
Use the context menu with unlocker for this guide below
https://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/unlocker.html

Control Panel\Appearance and Personalization

File explorer options
View
Show hidden files, folders or drives
Hide protected operating system files (recommended) - off

Deleting advice
C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\XXXXX
C:\Windows\SystemApps\XXXXX
These files can't be renamed or dragged elsewhere or windows will still read them
Windows will not read them if they are in a 7zip archive
Permissions need to be taken if you wish to back them all up with 7zip (it’s tedious)
Some folders and files refuse to be taken ownership of easily
If you will never use windows store or UI apps don't bother with backing them up

Use winaero tweaker

Take ownership
Add "take ownership" context menu to files and folders - on

Right click and take ownership of this folder

C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\

Right click and take ownership of this folder

C:\Windows\SystemApps\

Use unlocker
Following this process below, some folders will need to be manually done with unlocker
Some tasks may need to be killed in task manager also

Delete
C:\Program Files\WindowsApps

Delete all folders apart from shellExperienceHost_cw5n1h2txyewy

In - C:\Windows\SystemApps

DON'T DELETE ExperienceHost_cw5n1h2txyewy

(If you want your start menu and taskbar to work)

Empty recycle bin

Restart

Right click and take ownership of this folder

C:\Windows\SystemApps\

Right click and take ownership of this folder

C:\Windows\SystemApps\shellExperienceHost_cw5n1h2txyewy
The above ownership is needed if you want your start menu and task bar to work properly
This process is tedious but works

Restart

Check if your start menu works

If not take ownership again as above

Start menu bug

If you are still using the default start menu and it comes up with empty boxes or available apps
Even though you have already uninstalled and unpinned them
Uninstall and unpin them again
Check your start menu settings again in windows settings

Take ownership and delete defaultLayouts.xml files in

C:\Users\Default\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Shell
C:\Users\USER\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Shell

Delete RuntimeBroker.exe in system32

RuntimeBroker.exe - Runtime Broker
If you do this make a 7zip backup of RuntimeBroker.exe in the same location
This is needed for any Universal Windows Platform’s (UWP’s)
If you don’t use any UWP’s, it’s safe to remove

Delete shell experience host (optional)

In - C:\Windows\SystemApps\shellExperienceHost_cw5n1h2txyewy
Can be deleted although the original start menu and windows task bar will not work properly
Pinning things to your taskbar/left click windows icons won’t work
Left click aftermarket apps work fine
The screenshot snipping tool won't work

Deleting this will also be one less thing in your task manager running
If you do this make a 7zip backup of shellExperienceHost_cw5n1h2txyewy in the same location
So you can customize your taskbar later or if you decide it's too buggy for you

Other shell alternatives

Replace the buggy horrible start menu with one of these
http://classicshell.net/
https://github.com/Open-Shell/Open-Shell-Menu
https://startisback.com/

When you install a new program

Shortcuts are put in these below folders
C:\Users\USER\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs
Feel free to delete them if you wish (don’t delete the folder list shown below)

Do not delete below folders

Maintenance
Startup
Windows Accessories
Windows Administrative Tools
Windows Ease of Access
Windows System
Settings.ink
If they are deleted control panel shortcuts will not work

C:\Windows\SysWOW64
Take ownership and delete files
flashPlayerCPLApp.cpl
flashPlayerApp.exe

Take ownership and delete folders

C:\Windows\System32\Macromed\
C:\Windows\SysWOW64\Macromed\
%appdata%\Adobe\

C:\Windows
Take ownership and delete file
helpPane.exe

C:\Windows\System32
Take ownership and delete files
backgroundTaskHost.exe
gamebarpresencewriter.exe
gamepanel.exe
magnify.exe
mblctr.exe
mobsync.exe
narrator.exe
osk.exe
smartscreen.exe
WSClient.dll
WSCollect.exe

Control Panel\Programs\Programs and Features

Uninstall onedrive
Uninstall mozilla maintenance service
Uninstall programs not needed

Install net framework 3.5 offline

You might need this for some programs and games
If you install it online it either won't work or will come with bloatware
Insert your windows 10 bootable usb
Run CMD as admin
Enter

Dism /online /enable-feature /featurename:NetFx3 /All /Source:D:\sources\sxs /LimitAccess

D = Hard drive label, change if needed

Control Panel\Programs\Programs and Features

Turn windows features on or off
Turn all off apart from
3.5 (You might need this for some programs and games)
4.7 (You might need this for some programs and games)
Legacy components - direct play (this is for old games to work)

In windows settings
Apps
Turn off app recommendations

Manage optional features

Uninstall all

Manage app execution aliases - all off

Uninstall programs not needed

Restart

In windows settings
Apps
Default apps
Set default apps to
Firefox (for web browser)
Vlc player (for music player and video player)
Windows photo viewer (photo viewer)
Use winaero tweaker to enable windows photo viewer

Set defaults by app

Firefox - all
Vlc player - all
Windows photo viewer - all

In windows settings
Apps
Apps for websites - all off
Startup - all off

Run winaero tweaker

Disable UAC
Apply

Fix steam shortcuts

This will fix steam game shortcuts from bugging out
In windows settings
Apps/Default Apps/Choose Default Apps by File Type/URL > Internet Browser

Restart

DISABLE SERVICES

Black vipers services guide

Viper is worth mentioning here, although I’ve taken some more aggressive measures
http://blackviper.com/windows-services/
http://blackviper.com/service-configurations/black-vipers-windows-10-service-configurations/

Windows security
App & browser control
Check apps and files - off

Get the services disable enable batch file in my google drive

Big thanks to Dev0x0 for making this script
This will save alot of time, has been fully tested and includes a revert script if needed
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1PwUZawvG-QAoejIvpA2PUT8JaHhs3dEK

Get Nsudo
http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/nsudo.html
In nsudo with
TrustedInstaller
Enable all privileges - on
Run Services Disable.bat
Restart

THIS LIST/SCRIPT WILL WORK WITH 1709/1803/1809/1903

Services that get disabled

AllJoyn Router Service

App Readiness
AppX Deployment Service (AppXSVC)
Application Layer Gateway Service
Application Management
AssignedAccessManager Service
Auto Time Zone Updater
Background Intelligent Transfer Service
BitLocker Drive Encryption Service
Block Level Backup Engine Service
Bluetooth Audio Gateway Service
Bluetooth Handsfree Service
Bluetooth Support Service
Bluetooth User Support Service_XXXXX
BranchCache
CNG Key Isolation
CaptureService_XXXXX
Certificate Propagation
Client License Service (ClipSVC)
Connected Devices Platform Service
Connected Devices Platform User Service_XXXXX
Connected User Experiences and Telemetry
ConsentUX_XXXXX
Contact Data_XXXXX
Credential Manager
Data Usage
Delivery Optimization
DevicePicker_XXXXX
DevicesFlow_XXXXX
Diagnostic Execution Service
Diagnostic Policy Service
Diagnostic Service Host
Diagnostic System Host
Display Enhancement Service
Distributed Link Tracking Client
Distributed Transaction Coordinator
dmwappushsvc
Downloaded Maps Manager
Encrypting File System (EFS)
Enterprise App Management Service
File History Service
Function Discovery Provider Host
Function Discovery Resource Publication
GameDVR and Broadcast User Service_XXXXX
Geolocation Service
GraphicsPerfSvc
HV Host Service
HomeGroup Listener
HomeGroup Provider
Host Network Service
Human Interface Device Access
Hyper-V Data Exchange Service
Hyper-V Guest Service Interface
Hyper-V Guest Shutdown Service
Hyper-V Heartbeat Service
Hyper-V PowerShell Direct Service
Hyper-V Remote Desktop Virtualization Service
Hyper-V Time Synchronization Service
Hyper-V Volume Shadow Copy Requestor
IP Helper
IP Translation Configuration Service
IPsec Policy Agent
Infrared monitor service
Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)
Internet Explorer ETW Collector Service
Link-Layer Topology Discovery Mapper
MessagingService_XXXXX
Microsoft (R) Diagnostics Hub Standard Collector Service
Microsoft Account Sign-in Assistant
Microsoft App-V Client
Microsoft Passport
Microsoft Passport Container
Microsoft Software Shadow Copy Provider
Microsoft Storage Spaces SMP
Microsoft Store Install Service
Microsoft Windows SMS Router Service
Microsoft iSCSI Initiator Service
Natural Authentication
Net.Tcp Port Sharing Service
Netlogon
Network Connected Devices Auto-Setup
Network Connection Broker
Network Connectivity Assistant
Offline Files
Optimise drives
Parental Controls
Payments and NFC/SE Manager
Peer Name Resolution Protocol
Peer Networking Grouping
Peer Networking Identity Manager
Performance Logs & Alerts
Phone Service
Portable Device Enumerator Service
Print Spooler
PrintWorkflow_XXXXX
Printer Extensions and Notifications
Program Compatibility Assistant Service
Quality Windows Audio Video Experience
Radio Management Service
Remote Access Auto Connection Manager
Remote Access Connection Manager
Remote Desktop Configuration
Remote Desktop Services
Remote Desktop Services UserMode Port Redirector
Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator
Remote Registry
Retail Demo Service
Routing and Remote Access
SNMP Trap
Secondary Log-on
Security Accounts Manager
Security Center
Sensor Data Service
Sensor Monitoring Service
Sensor Service
Server
Shared PC Account Manager
Shell Hardware Detection
Smart Card
Smart Card Device Enumeration Service
Smart Card Removal Policy
Spatial Data Service
Storage Service
Storage Tiers Management
Sync Host_XXXXX
Sysmain
System Guard Runtime Monitor Broker
TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper
Telephony
Themes
Tile Data model server
Touch Keyboard and Handwriting Panel Service
Update Orchestrator Service
User Data Access_XXXXX
User Data Storage_XXXXX
User Experience Virtualization Service
Volume Shadow Copy
WMI Performance Adapter
WWAN AutoConfig
WalletService
Web Account Manager
WebClient
Wi-Fi Direct Services Connection Manager Service
Windows Backup
Windows Biometric Service
Windows Camera Frame Server
Windows Connect Now – Config Registrar
Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection Service
Windows Defender Antivirus Network Inspection Service
Windows Defender Antivirus Service
Windows Defender Security Center Service
Windows Encryption Provider Host Service
Windows Error Reporting Service
Windows Event Collector
Windows Font Cache Service
Windows Image Acquisition (WIA)
Windows Insider Service
Windows License Manager Service
Windows Media Player Network Sharing Service
Windows Mobile Hotspot Service
Windows Perception Service
Windows Perception Simulation Service
Windows Presentation Foundation Font Cache 3.0.0.0
Windows Push Notifications System Service
Windows Push Notifications User Service_XXXXX
Windows Remote Management (WS-Management)
Windows Search
Windows Security Service
Windows Time
Windows Update
Windows Update Medic Service
Workstation
Xbox Accessory Management Service
Xbox Game Monitoring
Xbox Live Auth Manager
Xbox Live Game Save
Xbox Live Networking Service

Extra services that can be disabled

Run services.msc through nsudo for permissions

-Capability Access Manager Service

-Human Interface Device Service
-Network List Service
-Network Location Awareness
-Software Protection
-Task Scheduler
-Time Broker
-WLAN AutoConfig
-Windows Event Log

Capability Access Manager Service

This can be disabled in 1709
It will stop your microphone working in 1809

Human Interface Device Service

This service runs things like volume up/down buttons on the keyboard and hotkeys
You might want to leave it enabled for a laptop

Software protection
If you get the activate windows logo you will need to run this then disable it again
Software protection is needed for office 365
Sounds stupid, although legitimately the activate overlay causes buffering and lag issues
Even without the overlay but windows not activated, I’ve had issues with latency an