Modular OS: Can Microsoft Deliver a Truly Customisable Windows?

In recent years, the concept of modular operating systems has been gaining momentum in the technology industry. With evolving hardware demands, increased emphasis on user privacy, and the push for greater personalisation, modular systems are emerging as a potential way forward for operating systems. Microsoft, as one of the leading OS developers, has already experimented with adaptable architectures in Windows 10X and Windows Core OS. However, the question remains: in 2025, can Microsoft deliver a truly customisable Windows experience that meets the needs of both everyday users and enterprise environments?

The Concept and Potential of a Modular Windows

A modular OS is built from separate functional components that can be installed, updated, or removed independently. This approach could allow users to have only the features they need, improving performance and reducing system bloat. In practice, it means that someone using their device solely for work could remove gaming-related components, while a creative professional could focus on multimedia tools and productivity extensions. Microsoft has already hinted at such capabilities in its developer previews, particularly with its “Windows Core” framework designed for lightweight systems like the Surface Hub or mixed reality headsets.

In the corporate sector, modularity offers significant advantages. IT departments could deploy tailored system builds that exclude unnecessary apps, improving security by reducing attack surfaces. The update process could also become more efficient, as only the relevant modules would need patching, reducing downtime. This aligns well with the growing demand for lean, secure, and easily maintainable systems in modern enterprises.

However, real-world implementation requires addressing compatibility challenges. Windows has an enormous ecosystem of legacy software and hardware, and ensuring smooth integration between modular components while maintaining support for older tools is no small task. Microsoft’s previous attempts, such as Windows 10X, struggled partly because of these compatibility hurdles, and overcoming them will be essential for success.

Technical Challenges in Building a Modular OS

Creating a modular Windows requires rethinking its underlying architecture, which has historically been monolithic. While Microsoft has already made strides with containerised subsystems, such as Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), scaling this approach to the entire OS is complex. The interdependencies between system services, drivers, and the kernel must be carefully managed to prevent instability when modules are added or removed.

Another key challenge is ensuring performance consistency. If certain modules are removed, the OS must be able to adapt dynamically without causing slowdowns or crashes. This demands a more intelligent resource management system and robust sandboxing for individual components. Microsoft’s success here will depend heavily on its ability to balance flexibility with reliability.

Security also plays a central role. Modular systems could be more secure if designed correctly, allowing rapid isolation of compromised components. However, poorly designed module interconnections could open new vulnerabilities. Microsoft’s long history with enterprise security tools gives it an advantage, but execution will be critical.

Potential Benefits for End Users

From a user perspective, a fully modular Windows could be transformative. Imagine installing Windows on a new device and selecting only the features you want during setup. Gamers could opt for high-performance graphics modules, while minimalists could strip the OS down to a lightweight core optimised for speed and battery life. This level of personalisation would not only enhance user satisfaction but could also extend the lifespan of older hardware.

Customisability could also improve accessibility. Users with specific needs could enable tailored modules for assistive technologies, while others could prioritise language packs, regional services, or specific productivity features. By making the OS adaptable, Microsoft would be better positioned to serve a global and diverse user base.

Furthermore, updates could become less intrusive. Instead of large system-wide updates, modular systems allow targeted improvements. For example, updating the file explorer wouldn’t require a full system reboot, which would be a significant quality-of-life improvement for many users.

How Modularity Changes the Update Model

One of the most immediate impacts of modularity is on the update cycle. Traditional Windows updates often involve gigabytes of data and extended downtime. With a modular structure, only the components in use would be updated, dramatically reducing the time and bandwidth required. This is similar to how app updates work on mobile operating systems like Android, where core components and apps are updated separately.

Microsoft has already experimented with decoupling certain features from the OS, such as delivering Notepad and Paint updates via the Microsoft Store. Extending this approach to system-level modules could allow for near-instant updates and faster patching of security vulnerabilities.

This model also supports faster innovation. Developers could work on improving individual modules without waiting for the next major OS release, leading to a more responsive and evolving operating system.

Microsoft’s Roadmap and Industry Context

In 2025, Microsoft is under increasing pressure from competitors adopting modular strategies. Google’s Fuchsia OS and various Linux-based modular distributions are pushing the boundaries of what a flexible OS can achieve. Microsoft’s advantage lies in its extensive ecosystem, but adapting it to modular principles without alienating existing users is a delicate task.

The company’s roadmap suggests gradual implementation rather than an overnight shift. Features like separated system components in Windows 11 updates, integration of cloud-based configuration profiles, and expanded support for containerised applications all point toward a modular future. Industry analysts predict that the first fully customisable consumer version could appear in the late 2020s if current development trajectories continue.

Partnerships with hardware manufacturers will also play a role. A truly modular Windows could adapt to various device categories more efficiently, from ultra-light laptops to specialised industrial machines. Microsoft’s collaborations with OEMs will be vital in defining which modules are bundled by default for different markets.

Will Microsoft Succeed in Delivering Full Modularity?

Whether Microsoft can fully realise this vision depends on a combination of technical execution, user adoption, and developer support. Even if the technology is ready, convincing users to embrace a new way of thinking about their OS will require education and clear communication of benefits.

For developers, modularity introduces both opportunities and complexities. While it enables targeted optimisation, it may require re-engineering software to work seamlessly with varying system configurations. Microsoft will need to provide strong development tools and documentation to ease this transition.

Ultimately, success will hinge on balancing flexibility with the stability and compatibility that have defined Windows for decades. If Microsoft manages to achieve this balance, a truly customisable modular Windows could redefine how people interact with their devices in the years ahead.