Microsoft Arms IT with Tools to Rebuild Windows PCs from the Cloud
REDMOND,WA – May 16,2024 – Microsoft is bolstering Windows recovery capabilities with two new tools,Point-in-time restore and cloud rebuild,designed to swiftly restore compromised PCs to a working state. These features, aimed at organizations utilizing Microsoft Intune, will allow IT administrators to remotely rebuild Windows installations without requiring physical access to the device or customary imaging processes.
The advancements address a critical pain point for businesses: the significant downtime and expense associated with troubleshooting and reimaging Windows computers. While individual users have existing recovery options, these new tools automate and streamline the process for large-scale deployments.Microsoft estimates these features will reduce recovery times and costs, minimizing disruption for employees and maximizing productivity. Both tools are part of the Windows Resiliency initiative, a broader effort to improve the stability and recoverability of the Windows operating system.
Point-in-time restore allows IT to revert a PC to a previously saved state, while cloud rebuild facilitates a complete refresh of Windows by downloading the latest installation media and reinstalling the OS. Despite a full reinstall, user data, applications, and settings can be restored via tools like OneDrive and Windows Backup for Organizations.
These features will be accessible through the Microsoft Intune portal and are slated for release in the first half of 2026. Microsoft is also concurrently developing Rapid Machine Recovery (QMR),which focuses on resolving boot failures by deploying targeted fixes,and working to enhance the resilience of Windows drivers to prevent conflicts.
