# Prepare operating system

The **Prepare operating system** step performs any necessary configuration needed before booting into the newly-applied Windows OS on the disk.

<figure><img src="/files/DUFSqhS4wPAljNwhU6HN" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

There are no options to configure on this step.  This step is required to ensure that the needed supporting files (e.g. .NET 8, PowerShell 7) are available for installation in the new OS.  It also makes some Windows configuration changes in the Windows registry:

* It sets the device to use UTC for the device's real-time clock.
* It prevents the start menu from appearing (popping up) on first logon.
* It ensures that the cursor is visible during the entire provisioning process.


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