Botspot’s BVM: Experience Lightning-Fast Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi

Running Windows 11 on your Raspberry Pi 5 isn’t science fiction—it’s more like science fun! Enthusiasts and tinkerers now have a streamlined way to experience Windows 11 through the Botspot Virtual Machine (BVM) on Raspberry Pi 5, complete with a surprisingly simple installation process that blends terminal wizardry with optional GUI ease. While the performance might not see you conquering triple-A titles, it opens up a playground for retro games, productivity experiments, and tech adventures.

---

A New Frontier: Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 5​

The evolution of Raspberry Pi hardware has always inspired creative projects, and running Windows 11 on ARM is no exception. Botspot’s BVM offers a modern twist to the classic challenge, providing both automated installation routines and user-friendly settings. In a few commands, you can turn your Raspberry Pi 5 into a compact Windows workstation. This breakthrough builds on past experiments with Windows on the Pi 4 and earlier iterations of the Pi 5, where varying degrees of success led to this refined solution.

Key Highlights​

• Streamlined Installation: Most of the process is automated via terminal, making the initial setup as smooth as a gentle breeze.
• Dual Interface Options: Whether you prefer the power of command-line instructions or a friendlier GUI, BVM has you covered.
• Hardware Flexibility: Though you can technically run the VM on a 2GB Raspberry Pi 5, a 4GB model (or higher) is recommended—especially when paired with an NVMe SSD or USB 3 drive for improved speed over micro SD performance.
• Peripheral Support: From network connectivity (Ethernet/Wi-Fi) to USB passthrough and audio, Windows 11 interacts seamlessly with the host’s resources.
• Emulation Capabilities: Thanks to ARM’s Prism emulator, x86 and x64 apps have a fighting chance in this virtualized environment, though consistency may vary between applications.

---

Breaking Down the Requirements​

Before diving into the commands, ensuring you have the right hardware and setup is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Raspberry Pi 5 Board (4GB minimum, though 16GB is ideal)
• Raspberry Pi OS installed on a high-performance storage medium, such as a 128GB Makerdisk PCIe Gen 3 NVMe SSD connected via a Pineboards HatDrive! Nano.
• Active Cooling: Keeping your Pi cool is essential for smooth operation, especially under sustained workloads.
• At Least 50GB Free Storage: This is necessary for Windows 11 files and the associated drivers, with room left over for further tweaks.
• Optional: USB devices for passthrough testing, e.g., a USB DVD writer, which demonstrates how peripheral integration can be enabled.

Using premium storage (NVMe SSD or USB 3 drive) over traditional micro SD cards results in a much-improved performance, compensating for some of the inherent speed limitations of virtualization on ARM.

---

Step-by-Step: Setting Up Windows 11 with Botspot Virtual Machine​

The installation process, while straightforward, packs a lot of power behind a few clever commands. Here’s a guided breakdown:

• Clone the Repository:
  Open a terminal and clone Botspot’s BVM repository by running:
  git clone [url="https://github.com/Botspot/bvm2%5B/url%5D%5B/ICODE"]https://github.com/Botspot/bvm2[/url][/ICODE[/url] This fetches all the required scripts and configurations for the VM. [*][B]Initial Setup and Dependency Installation:[/B] Run the help command to ensure all dependencies are installed: [ICODE]bvm/bvm help
  This initial run automatically installs all necessary packages to support the virtual machine’s operation.
• Create a Windows 11 Virtual Machine Configuration:
  Use the command:
  bvm/bvm new-vm ~/win11
  This creates a configuration file where you can later adjust settings such as username, password, language, VM disk size, and even the remote desktop connection port.
• Download Windows 11 and Drivers:
  Execute:
  bvm/bvm download ~/win11
  This step downloads the Windows 11 ARM installation package along with requisite drivers to ensure compatibility.
• Prepare the System for the First Boot:
  Run the preparation script:
  bvm/bvm prepare ~/win11
  This organizes the downloaded files and sets up configurations for a smooth first boot.
• Launch the Installation:
  Finally, start the VM’s installation by running:
  bvm/bvm firstboot ~/win11
  The automated setup then takes over in a window that eventually closes once the installation is complete.
• Headless Mode for Enhanced Performance:
  For those looking to optimize resource usage, boot Windows 11 in headless mode using:
  bvm/bvm boot-nodisplay ~/win11
  Once booted, connect via Remote Desktop (RDP) to interact with the Windows 11 desktop environment.
• Using the GUI Frontend (Optional):
  If terminal commands aren’t your cup of tea, launch the GUI frontend with:
  bvm/bvm gui
  This provides a visual interface that runs the same backend commands while making the process a bit more accessible.

---

Advanced Features: USB Passthrough and Drive Mounting​

Beyond just running Windows 11, the Botspot Virtual Machine offers intriguing additional features:

USB Device Passthrough​

This feature lets you use host-attached USB devices directly in your Windows 11 guest environment. The process involves:

• Connecting Your USB Device:
  Attach the device you intend to use (e.g., a USB DVD writer).
• Identifying the Device ID:
  Run the lsusb command in the terminal to list all connected USB devices and note the device ID.
• Editing the Configuration:
  Open the BVM configuration file with:
  nano ~/win11/bvm-config
  Locate the usb_passthrough entry and replace its ID value with that of your device.
• Restart Your VM:
  Reboot the Windows 11 session in headless mode and connect via RDP. The USB device should now appear within Windows, allowing you to use it just as you would on a standard Windows system.

Mounting Windows 11 as a Drive on the Host​

This handy trick enables you to mount your Windows 11 virtual drive onto Raspberry Pi OS, making file sharing between the two systems a breeze:

• Unmounted Installation:
  Ensure that Windows 11 is not running.
• Mount the Drive:
  Execute:
  bvm/bvm mount ~/win11
• Access Files:
  Navigate to /media/pi/bvmmount using your file manager. Here, you can read, write, and swap files seamlessly.
• Eject When Finished:
  Unmount the drive through the file manager's eject function before rebooting the VM.

These additional functionalities extend the VM’s usability, empowering you to customize the experience further or integrate it into a larger workflow between Linux and Windows environments.

---

Performance Considerations and Real-World Use​

While the Botspot Virtual Machine on a Raspberry Pi 5 promises a neat Windows 11 experience, it’s important to note a few performance caveats:

• Not Built for High-End Gaming:
  Despite KVM’s efficiency, the virtualization process means you shouldn’t expect the performance needed for modern, resource-intensive games. Instead, think of this environment as perfect for older titles, casual gaming, and web-based applications.
• Emulation Overhead:
  Windows 11 on ARM uses Prism to emulate x86 and x64 applications. Although this expands compatibility, it also implies that not all apps will run flawlessly—your mileage will depend on the specific software.
• Resource Allocation:
  While you can hack away with a 2GB Raspberry Pi 5, ensuring at least 4GB (or even more) guarantees a smoother experience, especially if you plan to multitask or use advanced features like USB passthrough.

Real-world users have found this experiment to be an enjoyable blend of modern computing and retro hardware tinkering. It not only demonstrates the versatile capabilities of the Raspberry Pi but also challenges the traditional boundaries between Windows and ARM-based systems.

---

Concluding Thoughts​

The journey of installing Windows 11 on a Raspberry Pi 5 via the Botspot Virtual Machine is a testament to innovative, community-driven exploration in tech. This project bridges the world of ARM-based computing with the familiarity and flexibility of Windows 11, offering enthusiasts an opportunity to experiment, learn, and perhaps even integrate this setup into niche applications.
In summary, the BVM installation process is:

• Largely automated but flexible enough for manual tweaks.
• Equipped with additional features such as USB passthrough and drive mounting.
• A practical experiment for those who appreciate the intersection of high-tech functionality and accessible, low-power hardware.

Whether you’re an IT hobbyist, a developer seeking a testbed for Windows updates and applications, or simply a curious mind eager to try something new, this project underlines that innovation is about exploring unexpected pathways—sometimes, even from a seemingly modest Raspberry Pi.
Feel free to share your experiences, tweak the setup to best fit your needs, and enjoy the blend of modern Windows convenience with the charm of ARM experimentation. Happy tinkering!

---

Source: Tom's Hardware Run Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 5 with Botspot Virtual Machine

Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi Gets New Life Thanks to Botspot's BVM​

Raspberry Pi enthusiasts have a new reason to celebrate—Microsoft’s Windows 11 is now running on Raspberry Pi with a fresh twist, all thanks to Botspot's innovative Virtual Machine (BVM) script. Developed by the pseudonymous student and single-board computer hobbyist known as “Botspot,” this free script offers a seamless way to run Windows 11 in a virtual machine (VM) on Raspberry Pi 4 and 5 models (as well as Compute Modules and other SBCs). This breakthrough revives Windows on the Pi while overcoming the limitations of older projects like Windows on Raspberry (WoR), which struggled with partial compatibility and lacked support for critical features like Wi-Fi.

---

A Game-Changing Update for Raspberry Pi Users​

Native ARM64 Virtualization​

One of the standout features of Botspot’s BVM is its ability to leverage the native ARM64 architecture of the Raspberry Pi. Unlike emulation—where performance often suffers—this approach runs Windows 11 using ARM64 CPU instructions directly. The result is a smooth, responsive experience for typical Windows applications, even on hardware that isn’t conventionally considered a PC.

Full Hardware Integration​

Botspot’s solution isn’t just about running Windows; it’s about making sure that Windows can interact fully with the Raspberry Pi’s physical hardware. Key hardware features supported include:

• Wi-Fi and Ethernet Connectivity:
  The VM fully connects to the Pi’s built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet ports, ensuring seamless network access.
• Audio Output:
  Thanks to proper passthrough, users can enjoy sound directly from the Pi’s audio hardware.
• USB Passthrough:
  Perhaps the most exciting feature is USB passthrough, which allows Windows to directly access devices connected to the Raspberry Pi. One clever user even connected a Software Defined Radio (SDR) to run Windows-only SDR software in a portable setup.

Running x86 Apps with Microsoft Prism​

Traditionally, running x86 applications on an ARM-based system would require full emulation, which can be slow and clunky. Botspot’s BVM takes advantage of Microsoft’s Prism translation layer, enabling Windows 11 to run x86 programs without the need for recompilation. While this creates a more seamless user experience, it’s important to note that the VM lacks hardware acceleration for graphics, making it less suited for gaming or other graphically intensive applications.

---

Installation: Simplicity Meets Functionality​

Botspot’s BVM is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The installation process is largely automated via the terminal, with an optional graphical user interface available for those who prefer a more visual setup experience. Here are a few pointers:

• Hardware Recommendations:
  While a Raspberry Pi 5 with 2GB RAM can run the VM, a model with 4GB is recommended for optimal performance. For storage, using an NVMe SSD or a USB 3 drive is advised over traditional microSD cards.
• Ease of Use:
  The installation script simplifies the process, making it accessible to both newcomers and seasoned hobbyists. Detailed instructions and tips are available on Botspot’s Raspberry Pi forum post and the GitHub repository, ensuring you have the support you need as you get started.

---

New Possibilities and Future Projects​

This update opens up a range of exciting possibilities for creative and embedded projects. Imagine developing Windows-based applications on low-cost, low-power hardware or deploying specialized solutions—like the aforementioned SDR setup—without investing in full-blown PC hardware. While it might not yet be the go-to solution for high-end graphics or gaming, Botspot’s BVM is a practical and innovative approach for many use cases where affordability and versatility are paramount.

---

Final Thoughts​

Botspot’s BVM breathes new life into the prospect of running Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi, providing unprecedented access to a full Windows environment on a compact, energy-efficient platform. By seamlessly integrating key hardware features and leveraging native ARM64 execution alongside Microsoft’s Prism translation layer, this solution offers a robust alternative to previous projects that fell short of meeting user expectations.
For Windows enthusiasts and Raspberry Pi hobbyists alike, now is the time to explore the capabilities of Botspot’s BVM. Whether it’s for embedded projects, portable Windows applications, or simply the joy of tinkering with technology, this promising development paves the way for a host of innovative uses. Check out the GitHub repository and Botspot’s forum post to learn more and get started on your own Windows 11 adventure on the Raspberry Pi!
Source: WindowsReport.com

---

Source: WindowsReport.com Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi gets new life thanks to Botspot's BVM

Windows 11 Revived on Raspberry Pi Thanks to a New Free Tool​

For owners of the latest Raspberry Pi models, the ability to run Windows 11 has become more accessible than ever. A new free tool—Botspot Virtual Machine (BVM)—is turning heads by allowing users to run Windows 11 in a virtual machine directly on Raspberry Pi devices, including all fourth and fifth generation models, Compute Modules, and other SBCs.

Key Highlights of Botspot Virtual Machine (BVM)​

• Native ARM64 Execution:
  Leveraging the native ARM64 architecture, BVM enables Windows 11 to run using ARM64 CPU instructions. This means the operating system interacts directly with your Raspberry Pi’s hardware—connecting seamlessly to Wi-Fi, Ethernet, audio, and USB ports. Whether you’re streaming audio or connecting peripherals, the integration is smooth and responsive.
• All-inclusive Compatibility:
  Unlike previous projects (like WoR) that struggled with partial compatibility—especially on certain Pi 4 and Pi 5 models—BVM works effectively across a broader range of devices. Users with even a Raspberry Pi 5 equipped with only 2GB of RAM can run Windows 11, opening up powerful new possibilities without requiring high-end hardware.
• Practical Use Cases:
  The tool enables innovative applications; for instance, one user connected a Software Defined Radio (SDR) to a Windows-only SDR tool on a Raspberry Pi 5 housed in a portable enclosure. This real-world use case hints at the potential for a host of new integrated projects across industries, even though it may not be ideal for graphically intensive tasks like gaming due to the lack of hardware acceleration for graphics.
• Step-by-Step Installation:
  Botspot Virtual Machine is designed with simplicity in mind—perfect for both newcomers and seasoned Raspberry Pi enthusiasts. Detailed installation instructions are provided via the tool’s official repository on GitHub and supported by community posts on the Raspberry Pi forum.

Final Thoughts​

The rollout of Botspot Virtual Machine rejuvenates the prospect of running Windows 11 on compact, low-power devices like the Raspberry Pi. By bypassing the limitations of previous solutions, BVM delivers an impressive, affordable option for those looking to explore Windows 11 in a virtualized environment. This opens up a world of possibilities for DIY projects and applications that integrate the versatility of Windows with the portability of the Raspberry Pi—just keep in mind that gaming might not be its strongest suit due to the absence of hardware graphics acceleration.
For more details, visit the official GitHub repository and check out discussions on the Raspberry Pi forum to see how others are using this exciting new tool.
Source: Ruetir

---

Source: Ruetir Windows 11 revive on Raspberry Pi thanks to a new free tool

There are stories so wild, so gleefully absurd, that they demand to be retold—preferably over a pint with fellow geeks, as laughter and incredulity ricochet across the table. Running Windows 11 inside a Docker container on a Raspberry Pi may be less a tale from the bleeding edge of technology, and more an untamable fever dream of the tinkerer’s soul. But as any Raspberry Pi aficionado will wistfully admit: sometimes, the most questionable projects leave the sweetest stories (and the biggest messes) in their wake.

The Raspberry Pi’s Bootstrapped Hardware Revolution​

First, let's set the scene. The Raspberry Pi, a plucky little single-board computer conceived in the hopes of teaching children to code, has graduated from educational toy to tech world darling. With every new model, performance, RAM, and connectivity have scaled upward. USB-3.0 ports? Check. Gigabit Ethernet? Dual 4K HDMI on a device you can fit in your pocket? Sure. The Pi 5, for instance—our protagonist—boasts an 8GB memory option and a powerful quad-core processor. Suddenly, it isn’t just a hobbyist’s best friend; it’s a credible machine for home labs, media servers, and, apparently, the world’s most unnecessarily convoluted Windows workstation.
Yet, for all the Pi’s strides, the holy grail—a stress-free, bare-metal Windows install—has remained elusive, especially for those stuck with ARM processors. Mainstream Windows releases simply don’t target these chips, and Microsoft, ever cautious, seems in no rush to help you run their flagship OS on a $60 credit card. For years, the Pi has been a fortress defended by penguins, not windows.
But we tinkerers are a stubborn breed.

The Allure—and Agony—of Unofficial Windows​

If you’re nodding your head, it’s probably because you too have spent a weekend frantically swapping SD cards and debugging obscure boot parameters in search of running Windows on the Pi. Perhaps you too have navigated hacky bootloaders, experimental drivers, and half-broken guides from shadowy message boards. Maybe, just maybe, you’ve bathed in the cold sweat of a system crash with 89% of the Windows installation complete.
The outcome? Often a system that boots…eventually, but with the stability of a three-legged llama and the whimpering underperformance only a heroic but misaligned operating system can offer. WiFi and Bluetooth are hit-or-miss. Basic services spill over dead. Even if you miraculously land on the Windows desktop, half the fun is trying to keep it there.
But what if you could sidestep this hopeless slog? What if a container—yes, an honest-to-goodness Docker-style virtualized system—could do for Windows what the British did for tea: make it portable, sort of palatable, and universally deployable?

Meet Runtipi: The Containerization Playground for Pi Addicts​

Enter Runtipi, every Pi multitasker’s solution to a problem they weren’t sure existed. Runtipi is a containerization platform targeting the Raspberry Pi family, and it lets you run a smorgasbord of applications and services as containers atop whatever OS you prefer—without having to format your microSD or sacrifice another precious Pi to the gods of distro experimentation.
This is, frankly, a revelation. Earlier options for self-hosting on the Raspberry Pi—frequent names like YunoHost, Freedombox, or UmbrelOS—often demanded a dedicated OS install, effectively banishing your board to a single use-case. Runtipi, by contrast, weighs in lighter and lets you stack containers without remorse.
Where things get wild is in the app store. Flick through the available containers, and instead of the obligatory media servers and note-taking suites, you stumble on something so brazen it feels like a glitch: a Windows 11 container, powered by KVM, arm-in-arm with Docker’s orchestration magic.
You know how this ends: you click install before your rational mind can mount a defense.

The Esoteric Ritual of Containerized Windows 11​

Let’s talk specs, because every Pi adventure hinges on them. Our test hardware: a Raspberry Pi 5, 8GB RAM, quad-core CPU, running Raspberry Pi OS. That's not a supercomputer, but it isn’t a slouch either—unless you’re comparing it to… well, pretty much anything designed after 2015.
Resource allocation becomes a fine art. Assign too little, and your Windows 11 container slinks along like molasses in January. Ask too much, and you risk crashing the underlying OS, setting your workspace ablaze with kernel panics.
The compromise here: four CPU cores, 4GB RAM, and about 32GB of storage for Windows. Networking is a breeze—just expose port 8006, and you can access your virtual Windows via a remote PC's browser. A few clicks in the Runtipi web UI, and you’ve unleashed the beast.
Installation, of course, is an exercise in patience. Windows, even on x86 hardware, is not famous for its svelte image size or brisk install time. On a Pi, expect about 23 minutes for the download to trickle in, and another 20 for setup to plod through its rites. Then, suddenly, there it is: the familiar shimmer of the Windows 11 desktop, albeit with a few… compromises.

It Works! Kinda. The Glass-Ceiling of Arm-based Windows​

The first thing you’ll notice is that, like the world’s tiniest hobbit home, your Windows is, well, compact. Only an 800x600 resolution is on offer, a painful flashback to 1990s computer labs and educational games where UI elements fight for real estate. 4:3 aspect ratio, baby! And because drivers are whatever KVM is able to muster, you won’t be raising that ceiling any time soon.
Which version of Windows 11 are we running? The latest ARM64 build—official, unmodded, but still as experimental on the Pi as an ice cream parlor in Antarctica.
Surprisingly, the system is… not a total dumpster fire. The UI’s not snappy, but it isn’t glacial either. App launches carry a certain ceremony: you click, you wait, you maybe make a cup of coffee. And if you’re expecting to multitask at 4K, well, that’s a dream for the next decade’s Pi.

Apps, Tests, and Tiny Triumphs: Brave, Powertoys, and More​

With the environment set, it’s time for actual app testing, because what’s Windows for if not running real software? Brave Browser is up first—it loads, even handling ten tabs without choking, which is more than can be said for some office desktops. Powertoys behaves, which is a relief for anyone addicted to FancyZones or the gloriously petty Text Extractor.
Next up: Darktable, the powerful open-source photo editor. On bare-metal x86 hardware, this is a heavyweight app. Here, it’s… okay, if you treat each action as a meditative exercise. Launching Darktable takes a couple of minutes, and while you can edit images, doing so at 800x600 is a bit like painting the Sistine Chapel through a keyhole.
Other basics—Notion, LibreOffice—perform admirably. These aren’t resource hogs, and their interface quirks are less annoying at low resolutions.
Benchmarks? Of course. Geekbench 6 reveals a truth that’s both sobering and remarkable: single-core performance inside the container is neck-and-neck with Raspberry Pi OS native results. Multi-core drops off—a reminder that virtualization and resource allotment have real-world consequences—but for light use, it’s honestly serviceable.

Can You Game? The Genosia Gambit​

No Pi project is complete without pressing your luck, so the next logical step is attempting—against all better judgment—to run actual PC games.
First, Steam, the granddaddy of PC gaming platforms, makes an appearance. It launches, but with a speed that makes cold molasses look like jet fuel. Install Genosia, a featherweight visual novel so forgiving it’ll run on almost anything with a functioning graphics pipeline. Even so, boot times are glacial, and in-game transitions lag. The old joke goes, “but can it run Crysis?”—at these specs, not unless you’re okay with 15 frames per second in a window you could hide under a sticky note.
Still, the fact that it works at all is testament to just how far both emulation and ARM architectures have come. The Pi, known for teaching Python and blinking LEDs, is now running complex Win32 applications and multitasking across platforms that are, fundamentally, not supposed to cooperate.

The Practicality Paradox: Should Anyone Do This?​

Having spent way too much time on this project, you might expect a profound warning about wasted hours and shattered dreams. Yet, paradoxically, running Windows 11 inside a Runtipi container—at least for lightweight tasks—makes a strange kind of sense.
Install times are shorter than the bare-metal voyage. System crashes are fewer, since the Pi OS and containerization add layers of buffering. And if you need just a single Windows app Micrsoft refuses to port to Linux, this is, hands-down, the least masochistic method to get it working on ARM-based hardware.
Want to optimize? Ditch the GUI desktop and run a minimal CLI-focused distro like DietPi, flash it to a speedy SSD, and hook up a Pi with 16GB for breathing room. The performance jump is noticeable, and you won’t have to contend with swapping windows in a desktop environment designed for Tigers, not kittens.

The Philosophy of Doing Weird Things With Tiny Computers​

There’s a joy here that transcends mere benchmarks. Running Windows 11—Microsoft’s latest and greatest—inside a Docker container, atop Linux, on ARM silicon, in a package that fits in your hand is fundamentally unnecessary. And that’s what makes it wonderful.
Every Raspberry Pi owner knows the sentiment: “Because I can.” Each project, bizarre or brilliant, is another notch in the belt of creative chaos. Today it’s Windows in a container. Tomorrow, it could be Kubernetes clusters in shoeboxes, AI voice assistants running on solar panels, or triple-booting a Pi with four thumb drives and a prayer.

Final Words: Not For the Faint of Heart, But Maybe For You​

If you’re itching to take your Pi experimentation to the next level, running Windows 11 inside Runtipi is the perfect “hold my drink and watch this” moment. Maybe you need to test a program that clings to Windows like a barnacle. Maybe you just want to see if it’s possible. Either way, this is the ultimate Pi shenanigan—low stakes, high satisfaction, and a story guaranteed to raise eyebrows at any nerd gathering.
Above all, it’s proof positive that the Raspberry Pi’s journey from classroom curiosity to hacker icon is just hitting its stride. What hackers and tinkerers do with cheap, powerful, delightfully janky hardware is the real magic behind computing’s next chapter.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to see if I can boot Windows 95 inside a VM, inside Docker, inside Runtipi, on my Pi. Just because.

---

Source: XDA https://www.xda-developers.com/i-ran-windows-11-inside-a-docker-container-on-my-raspberry-pi/

Embracing the challenge of running full-fledged Windows 11 on diminutive single-board computers, hobbyists and professionals alike have long grappled with the limitations inherent in the marriage of Microsoft’s modern operating systems and the Raspberry Pi ecosystem. In a space often defined by half-complete projects and convoluted workarounds, the arrival of Botspot’s new virtual machine tool marks a meaningful shift—not only in convenience but also in the sheer viability of deploying desktop Windows on hardware never intended for such demands.

A New Era for Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi​

Historically, the notion of running Windows on Raspberry Pi hardware has come with significant caveats. Microsoft briefly offered official support in the form of Windows 10 IoT Core—a stripped-down version intended for embedded applications rather than desktop use. Despite Microsoft's parallel investment in ARM-powered devices and partnerships with silicon partners like Qualcomm, a truly consumer-friendly, desktop-capable Windows on Raspberry Pi was left in the realm of experimentation.
Enter Botspot, a pseudonymous developer whose affinity for single-board computers has yielded an accessible script and toolchain capable of placing a working Windows 11 environment atop a Raspberry Pi running Linux. Unlike earlier efforts, such as the recently abandoned Windows on Raspberry (WoR) project—which had only partial compatibility with select Pi models—Botspot’s tool distinguishes itself through broad hardware support and unprecedented usability.

How Botspot’s Virtualization Tool Works​

What sets this approach apart is its embrace of virtualization over bare-metal installs. Rather than attempting the Sisyphean task of making Windows 11 run natively—with all the driver headaches and platform mismatches that would entail—the tool leverages the Pi’s ARM64 architecture by running Windows in a virtual machine on top of Raspberry Pi OS or another Linux flavor. Because the underlying CPU instructions remain consistent with those for which Windows 11 for ARM64 is designed, performance remains surprisingly lively. This isn’t traditional emulation, where binary translation creates a considerable performance tax; it’s genuine hardware-level virtualization.
The tool shines brightest across the Raspberry Pi 4 and 5 spectrum, supporting all newly released boards alongside Compute Modules 4 and 5. It doesn’t discriminate by form factor, working equally well on the ever-popular all-in-one Raspberry Pi 400 and its contemporary, the Pi 500. Compatibility and broad support have become signatures of this project, a far cry from the patchwork solutions of prior years.

Real-World Usability: What Works and Where It Shines​

Botspot’s claims are refreshingly measured. Rather than promising an unqualified desktop PC replacement, they highlight what actually works within the limits of the platform:

• Audio and Networking: Essential features like network connectivity—over both Wi-Fi and Ethernet—function out of the box. Audio playback, a notorious stumbling block for virtual machines, is directly supported.
• USB Pass-Through: Devices plugged into the Pi can, with deliberate configuration, become available to the Windows VM. This opens practical avenues for using Windows-only peripherals such as certain security dongles, specialty printers, or legacy scientific instruments, directly from an inexpensive Pi workstation.
• File Sharing: Windows can access files on the Pi host through standard network shares, easing workflows between the two environments.
• Software Compatibility: Thanks to Microsoft’s Prism translation layer, applications written for traditional x86 Windows can run on the ARM-based VM without needing recompilation. This bridges the gap for users tied to legacy software.

One important limitation remains: there is no hardware-accelerated graphics support. For aficionados hoping to turn their Pi into a lightweight gaming machine, this is a non-starter. The virtualized GPU performance isn’t sufficient for modern games or graphics-intensive applications. However, for productivity tools, web browsing, educational software, and a wide range of office or administrative tasks, the experience is robust and surprisingly responsive.

Demystifying Performance: Why Is It “Surprisingly Speedy”?​

The anticipation of sluggishness is common when considering something as ambitious as running Windows 11 on a Raspberry Pi. The reality subverts expectations due to two main factors:

• Native ARM64 Virtualization: Unlike cumbersome emulation layers that painstakingly convert every processor instruction, virtualization on ARM hardware allows the Windows 11 guest to speak the same “language” as the Raspberry Pi’s CPU. The result is a noticeable leap in responsiveness—applications open faster, system interactions are smoother, and overall user frustration is dramatically reduced.
• Lean Resource Management: Although the Pi is no powerhouse compared to desktop heavyweights, Windows 11 for ARM is decently optimized for low-power environments. The host operating system (Raspberry Pi OS or similar Linux) can efficiently allocate memory and CPU resources between itself and the guest Windows environment. For productivity use cases, this means users can toggle between Linux and Windows workflows without significant overhead.

The Broader Context: Windows, Pi, and the Democratization of Computing​

Botspot’s work is more than a technical curiosity—it’s emblematic of a wider trend towards making powerful software accessible on affordable hardware. The Raspberry Pi, often seen as a symbol of educational computing and hobbyist experimentation, has long transcended its original intentions. In classrooms, maker spaces, and even professional environments, the Pi’s blend of cost, flexibility, and community-driven enhancements have given birth to countless innovations.
By enabling Windows 11 to run—with real-world usability—on standard Pi hardware, the tool breaks down barriers that previously separated Linux-first devices from the universe of Windows-only applications. Administrators deploying mixed-OS educational labs, researchers tied to proprietary analytical tools, or small businesses reliant on unique Windows drivers all stand to benefit. The ability to toggle between full-featured Linux and Windows environments fosters a hybrid infrastructure most previously assumed was reserved for expensive, enterprise-grade setups.

A Critical Analysis: Risks, Limitations, and the Road Ahead​

Despite many strengths, it’s important to temper enthusiasm with a realistic view of the tool’s limits and the inherent risks associated with such projects.

Lack of 3D Acceleration: The Achilles’ Heel​

Perhaps the most conspicuous weakness is the absence of hardware-accelerated graphics. For users with even light graphical demands—think CAD tools, creative suites, or STEM learning software reliant on OpenGL or DirectX—the environment can feel painfully restrictive. While this does not negate the utility for non-graphical applications, it sharply curtails the breadth of use cases.

Support and Sustainability​

Botspot's project appears notably more robust than its predecessor, WoR, which ultimately succumbed to a lack of ongoing development and incomplete support matrices for newer Pi boards. The open-source nature and community involvement surrounding the new tool offer some reassuring signs of sustainability. Still, the volatility of hobby-led projects remains a reality. Unless broader adoption or organizational backing materializes, there’s always a chance of stagnation as hardware or underlying software evolves.

Security Considerations​

Running a virtualized Windows environment atop Linux introduces a unique security matrix. While VM isolation offers some protection, misconfiguration—especially around USB pass-through or network sharing—can inadvertently expose both the host and guest systems to additional vulnerabilities. For educational or enterprise deployments, configuring these elements securely must remain a high priority.
Additionally, licensing remains an important if sometimes overlooked aspect. Although Microsoft has taken a relatively permissive stance towards Windows 11 on ARM outside its commercial tablets and laptops, using the OS in unconventional ways may create a gray area, especially in regulated or production environments.

The Educational and Maker Perspective​

Educational settings are among the biggest winners in this development. Previously, the expense of maintaining dual-OS labs or providing Windows terminals for specific lessons posed a major barrier—even for well-resourced schools. By deploying Pi clusters that can dual-boot or run virtualized Windows sessions on-demand, educators can cater to a much broader curriculum with a single, low-cost hardware platform.
Makers, too, benefit from new worlds of interoperability. Many hardware projects, particularly those interfacing with obscure gadgets or legacy devices, require specific Windows drivers or proprietary configuration software. What was once a separate, more expensive PC can now be virtualized onto the same Pi running the rest of a project’s control stack.

The Enterprise Angle: Can This Displace Thin Clients?​

The specter of desktop virtualization is nothing new in enterprise IT. Thin clients, remote desktops, and VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) have long sought to deliver Windows experiences to endpoints lighter and cheaper than fully fledged desktops. Here, the Pi—with Botspot’s tool—matures further as a candidate for these roles, particularly in settings with moderate performance needs.
Imagine a call center, a library, or a public access terminal running standard Linux for internet and productivity, then spinning up a Windows 11 environment only when needed for legacy line-of-business applications. The USB pass-through support is a tangible advantage here, allowing for local hardware such as ID card readers, POS peripherals, or medical instruments to be used within the VM natively.
However, expectations must be aligned with hardware limits. For any scenario demanding heavy multitasking, multi-monitor support, or persistent graphical workloads, traditional hardware remains necessary. Botspot’s solution is well-placed for focused, lightweight, and cost-sensitive deployments—not as a wholesale desktop replacement in environments with advanced demands.

Installation Experience and Documentation​

One of the persistent pain points for users exploring experimental operating system combos is setup complexity. Botspot wisely invests in thorough documentation, hosting clear instructions on both forums and GitHub. The script-driven approach abstracts much of the underlying complexity, ensuring that even those with modest command-line experience can get up and running with minimal fuss.
Still, the process is not quite “one-click” for true beginners. Users must prepare OS images, understand basics around virtual machine management, and follow instructions attentively to avoid pitfalls. In practice, successful deployment will be easiest for those already familiar with Raspberry Pi OS or Linux in general.

Where Community Matters: Support and Feedback Loop​

Drawing strength from forums, open-source repositories, and a tradition of peer-based troubleshooting, this project epitomizes the best of the Raspberry Pi community ethos. Early adopters share optimizations, troubleshoot quirks, and expand compatibility—all accelerating project maturity. For any user, tapping into community channels remains the best way to glean best practices, learn about hardware-specific pitfalls, and suggest enhancements.

Who Should Try This?​

The ideal users for this solution are varied:

• Educators needing access to both Linux-first and Windows-only teaching software without maintaining dual hardware.
• Tinkerers and Makers integrating Windows-only devices, or repurposing legacy hardware and peripherals.
• Small Businesses that must support a “last mile” Windows application or proprietary hardware, but wish to keep costs low.
• Enthusiasts curious about maximizing the capabilities of their Pi hardware, exploring new use-cases, or learning about virtualization.
• IT Professionals experimenting with lightweight endpoint management, or seeking proof-of-concept setups for hybrid OS environments.

A Vision for the Future: What Comes Next?​

The successful virtualization of Windows 11 on the Raspberry Pi hints at broader energy in the single-board computer community. With the continuous evolution of Pi hardware—now reaching into octa-core CPUs, faster memory, and improved I/O—and the overlap of lightweight ARM environments with desktop computing, we are likely to see these lines blur further.
If graphics virtualization improves, or if future Pi models offer more robust GPU virtualization features, the spectrum of compatible applications could widen dramatically. There’s also potential for more user-friendly orchestration tools, enhancing the ability to spin up, manage, and snapshot Windows environments for diverse workloads.
Botspot’s project already sets an impressive standard for accessibility and openness. Should commercial backing or deeper integration with mainstream virtualization technologies (like QEMU or KVM) emerge, the result could be an out-of-the-box Windows-on-Pi experience rivaling that found on high-end ARM devices.

Conclusion: A Catalyst for Affordable, Flexible Computing​

Botspot’s Windows 11 virtualization tool for the Raspberry Pi is far more than an incremental hack. It represents a thoughtful response to long-standing gaps in cross-OS accessibility, delivered at a time when hardware is more capable, virtualization is more performant, and community skillsets are higher than ever. The project serves as a bridge—connecting the Raspberry Pi’s open-ended hardware playground with the vast ecosystem of Windows-only tools, all in a manner accessible to enthusiasts, educators, and enterprises alike.
It is not a panacea; gaming and heavy graphics work remain outside its grasp, and the sustainability of hobby-driven software is always an open question. Nonetheless, the project’s careful design, broad hardware support, and practical documentation make it a pivotal moment in the Pi’s evolution. For anyone invested in affordable, flexible computing—whether driven by necessity or curiosity—this is an advance worth celebrating, experimenting with, and, ultimately, building upon.

---

Source: www.hackster.io Botspot's BVM Puts a Surprisingly Speedy Windows 11 on Your Raspberry Pi

Running Windows 11 on a Raspberry Pi has long been the sort of high-wire project that only the most dogged tinkerers attempted, marked by a labyrinthine installation path and a parade of technical caveats. But with the advent of Botspot Virtual Machine (BVM), the dream of harnessing the latest Microsoft OS on compact, affordable Pi hardware inches closer to the mainstream—at least, as mainstream as a dovetail of open-source curiosity and modern compute-power limitations can get.

Botspot’s Take on Windows 11 Virtualization​

BVM is not the first tool to bring Windows 11 to the Raspberry Pi. Previous projects have yielded mixed results, typically asking users to accept a slow, sometimes brittle experience peppered with frequent compatibility hitches. Where BVM sets itself apart is in its ambition for approachability—a largely automated, terminal-driven install process capped off by a user-friendly graphical interface for those averse to command-line gymnastics.
The real hook, however, isn’t just in the ease of installation. It’s that BVM brings the ability to run Windows 11 for ARM in a KVM-powered virtual machine, letting users balance the inevitable Pi performance constraints with impressive flexibility. The automation of necessary steps—from dependency fetching to prepping drivers to mounting the virtual disk—is paired with contextual touches like easy SSH or RDP remote access, and support for mounting the VM drive on the host OS for seamless file transfers. The aim is clear: abstract away complexity without dumbing down the choices or features advanced users might crave.

The Promise and the Practicalities: What You’ll Need​

Getting started with BVM is surprisingly straightforward, but the hardware caveats warrant close attention. On the bleeding edge, the Tom’s Hardware deep dive used a Raspberry Pi 5 with 16GB of RAM—about as high-spec as retail Pi boards come today. According to the guide, a Pi 5 with at least 4GB of RAM is recommended (the absolute minimum being 2GB, but that’s stretching patience), fronted by ZRAM swap support for better memory elasticity.
Storage matters just as much. Anyone accustomed to old-school Raspberry Pi microSD tedium will appreciate the performance gains of using a PCIe-connected NVMe SSD. Not only does this arrangement hasten file operations, but the minimum 50GB free space required for the Windows 11 VM simply isn’t elegant (or pleasant) using SD cards. Add in essential active cooling—the Pi will work hard under virtualization loads—and the recipe for success gets clearer: modern Pi, fast storage, good airflow, and a dash of Linux savvy.

Installation, Step by Step​

The guide’s actual installation path reads more like a recipe than a battle plan. Clone the BVM repository from GitHub, install dependencies, create and prepare a VM directory, and walk through the automated download and setup steps for Windows 11. For those on the command line, it’s methodical and clear. For the GUI crowd, BVM provides an intuitive front-end that tracks behind-the-scenes terminal commands, this time through a simply numbered process.
Booting Windows 11 is likewise a cinch, either by launching the VM with its display or, for those seeking better performance, running it in headless mode and connecting via remote desktop. All of this, from setup to day-to-day use, is designed to make the process repeatable and approachable, stripping away the cryptic and unreliable elements that typified previous Pi-Windows adventures.

What Works—and What Doesn’t​

Out of the box, the experience is recognizable to anyone who has virtualized operating systems before, just scaled down to match the Pi’s capabilities. Windows 11 running in a VM can leverage both wired and wireless networking from the Linux host. Audio and general input work, and with host-level configuration, USB devices can be passed through to the Windows guest—a major step up for practical usability. The flexibility to mount the VM’s virtual disk as a drive on Raspberry Pi OS makes file shuffling simple, erasing a pain point that’s dogged cross-OS projects for years.
However, expectations must be carefully managed. KVM brings very little overhead, so the performance is roughly equivalent to running Windows 11 directly on bare metal for the Pi 5. That’s to say, perfectly serviceable for lightweight productivity, web browsing, and the retro or web gaming of yesteryear, but nowhere near fast enough for modern AAA games or heavy-duty creative professional software. Emulation for x86 and x64 apps is powered by Windows 11’s built-in Prism emulator, though compatibility is, as Microsoft puts it, subject to change and “your mileage may vary.” Ambitious users will likely hit software roadblocks or slowdowns as soon as workloads get strenuous.

Configuration and Customization: Opening Up Possibilities​

While the BVM GUI will suit newcomers, power users can roll up their sleeves with the bvm-config file to deeply tweak their virtual Windows instance. This plain-text file governs everything from VM-specific usernames and passwords, to the default language, RDP port, memory allocation, and disk sizing options. More advanced settings allow toggling UI bloat (debloat is the sensible default), enabling or disabling resource-intensive OS effects, and specifying device passthrough for USB gear.
Of particular note is the new feature for USB device passthrough. Not all devices will function perfectly—especially when considering the sometimes finicky Linux-to-VM hardware translation stack—but even partial success represents a significant advance. Testing with a USB DVD writer, for instance, allowed straightforward access from the Windows guest, a win for those with legacy hardware or chipset-specific needs.

File Management: Seamless Transfers between Host and VM​

Moving files between operating systems can be an exercise in frustration, especially with virtualized environments on an ARM device. BVM meets this challenge head-on. Users can cleanly mount the Windows 11 VM’s virtual disk on the host Pi OS—provided the VM is not running—granting full read and write access via the Raspberry Pi OS file manager. This not only streamlines the process for bulk data transfers like media libraries or development assets, but reduces unnecessary intermediary steps, like setting up shared folders or fussing with network drives. Unmounting is as simple as clicking the “eject” button, after which the VM can be restarted and accessed as usual.

Performance and Usability: Realistic Expectations​

No virtualization solution can outpace the hardware it runs on, and the Raspberry Pi 5, for all its progress, is not a PC workstation replacement. Benchmark numbers may be less meaningful than day-to-day impressions for most prospective users. The headline is clear: the Pi 5’s additional RAM, ARM powerhouse SoC, and NVMe SSD support combine to make running Windows 11 in VM a viable prospect for light, infrequent workloads. For many, accessing Windows-only utilities, legacy business software, or niche gaming options is now within reach—provided they operate within conservative performance constraints.
For sustained use, heat can become a limiting factor. Active cooling, preferably a dedicated Pi fan or external heatsink, is essentially mandatory if you plan to run the VM for long stretches. The added benefit is that sustained performance doesn’t throttle as quickly, making the overall experience more predictable.

Security and Risk: The Hidden Layers​

As with any virtualized environment, running a full operating system like Windows 11 inside a VM affects your security posture in nuanced ways. If the host Raspberry Pi OS is kept-up-to-date, and secure habits are observed (minimal open services, no unnecessary device exposure, etc.), running Windows 11 as a guest OS introduces a layer of sandboxing between the guest and host. This lessens the blow of any Windows-specific vulnerabilities, but does not fully insulate either side from potential attacks, especially if device passthrough is enabled.
There is a corresponding risk: giving the Windows VM access to USB hardware opens up attack vectors for both sides. Since all hardware access in this model is ultimately filtered through Linux, there’s a degree of isolation, but the risk cannot be zeroed out. Users handling sensitive materials or relying on the Pi for critical infrastructure should carefully weigh the security trade-offs before wholesale adoption.
Another, quieter risk lies in the management of disk images and ISOs. With mounting and unmounting of the Windows disk happening outside of Windows itself, accidental data corruption or sync errors could result in lost files. Backups and disciplined VM management habits are especially important.

Strengths and Innovations Worth Applauding​

Where BVM excels is in blending openness with user-centric design. The embrace of both intuitive graphical and terminal-based workflows means it’s accessible to both newcomers and advanced hobbyists. Performance, while never dazzling, is consistent and predictable. The push toward USB passthrough and disk mounting brings the Pi’s virtual Windows experience much closer to that offered by full-bodied desktop hypervisors.
Furthermore, BVM’s manual is clear, its community approachable, and its code freely available via GitHub. This allows for collaborative sharing of best practices, troubleshooting, and rapid iteration—crucial in the constantly shifting world of Pi OS upgrades and Windows ARM driver development.
Most importantly, the project’s philosophy is empowering. By demystifying complex multi-OS setups, BVM hands the keys to anyone interested in broadening the practical capabilities of low-cost ARM hardware. While unlikely to unseat traditional Windows PCs for production work, it serves as a compelling proof-of-concept that affordable computing can break through vendor boundaries.

The Pi Edge: Who Should Use Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi?​

For classrooms, makerspaces, software QA labs, and curious home tinkerers, the coupling of BVM and Raspberry Pi 5 opens up tremendous possibilities. Students can learn about virtualization, operating system differences, and cross-architecture compatibility with zero risk to their daily-use machines. Developers can test ARM builds against real Windows 11 environments on modular hardware. Small businesses with legacy Windows software dependencies can hedge their bets with spare Pi hardware for non-critical use.
At the same time, resource limitations ensure this approach is best for occasional, targeted needs, not as a substitute for mainstream Windows PCs. Running CAD software, video editing suites, or modern PC games will remain rough if not impossible. Rather, BVM is best viewed as a flexible laboratory for experimentation, troubleshooting, and a little bit of nostalgia.

The Road Ahead: Maturity and Mainstream Appeal​

Despite its rapid progress, BVM and its supporting ecosystem remain products of a passionate community, not enterprises with long-term SLAs or commercial hardware partnerships. Users should expect the occasional edge case, quirk, or regression as both Raspberry Pi OS and Windows 11 ARM continue to evolve.
Still, the project’s open architecture and close feedback loop with users point to rapid iteration ahead. Support for more peripheral devices, enhanced graphical backends, and deeper VM management tools are all within reach. For now, BVM turns the Raspberry Pi 5 into a surprisingly capable ARM-based Windows 11 testbed—a prospect unthinkable just a few years ago.

Final Thoughts​

BVM for Raspberry Pi 5 underscores the enduring appeal of open, tinker-friendly computing, where “officially unsupported” no longer means “impossible.” While the practical limitations of the hardware and OS translation layers are immutable, their impact is softened by thoughtful design, comprehensive documentation, and a community invested in making technology more open and fun.
For anyone who has ever wished to collapse their home lab, experiment with Windows 11 on ARM, or simply bridge the divide between Linux and Microsoft worlds without expensive hardware, Botspot’s BVM is both a technical triumph and a harbinger of the more accessible, more customizable computing future so many Pi fans have long envisioned. Interested users should approach with curiosity, patience, and a willingness to tinker—and in return, they’ll discover real magic at the intersection of open source ingenuity and closed source familiarity.

---

Source: www.tomshardware.com Run Windows 11 on Raspberry Pi 5 with Botspot Virtual Machine