Microsoft has restricted downloading Windows 11 ISO images via Rufus

Microsoft has restricted downloading Windows 11 ISO images

Recently the company announced a block on downloading test builds of the operating system for a specific group of users – those who use third‑party utilities such as Rufus. The affected versions are:

- Windows 11 28020.1611
- Windows Server 29531

First complaint filed
User *ChronoVore* was the first to notice the issue and posted a message on Microsoft’s official forum. When attempting to download the image, an error code appeared indicating that his IP address had been blocked. He emphasized that he does not use a VPN or proxy, yet the system reports that his address falls within a “spoofing” range of owners.

Rufus users also encountered difficulties
Many people who use Rufus to download ISO images report similar problems. Rufus developer *Pete Batard* (Пит Батар) believes Microsoft has made changes in recent test versions of Windows to force users to switch to Microsoft’s own Media Creation Tool (MCT).

Developer comments
On the GitHub repository for the Fido project, where the script’s shutdown was discussed, Pete Batard expressed his view:

> “Microsoft is deliberately detecting this script. Although its open source code makes it straightforward, blocking downloads requires active and targeted actions from Microsoft.”

Thus the company is clearly trying to limit access to ISO images outside the official channel, forcing users to use only the proprietary MCT tool.